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25 Relaxed Summer Wedding Ideas

If you've been daydreaming about a casual, laid-back affair, then summer may be your ideal wedding season — the warmer weather naturally beckons a less buttoned-up attitude. Here, get 25 ideas for a carefree summer wedding.

By: Kristen Klein

Enter Slideshow
  • Attire

    Attire

    Encourage your guests to kick off their shoes and relax.

    Photo Credit: Limelight Photography

  • Attire

    Attire

    An added bonus of wearing sunglasses: your photographer can catch your groom's reaction in your shades.

    Photo Credit: Limelight Photography

  • Bouquet

    Bouquet

    Skip the flowers in favor of fresh-from-the-garden greenery.

  • Attire

    Attire

    No shoes, no problem! Dress up your feet with foot jewelry.

  • Cake

    Cake

    Top your cake with a whimsical tropical decoration.

  • Cake

    Cake

    Even for the most casual weddings, an ice cream cake simply isn't a practical choice. Get the look without the mess by adding a few "scoops" to the top of your traditional wedding cake.  

    Photo Credit: B Jones Photography

  • Reception Ideas

    Reception Ideas

    Yard games are popular for summer weddings, but skip the oversized Jenga and checkers in favor of something a little more active — like ping pong.

  • Reception Ideas

    Reception Ideas

    Balloons make everything more fun. Add a bubble-like balloon installation over your escort card table.

  • Reception Ideas

    Reception Ideas

    One downside of an entirely outdoor wedding is the bathroom issue. Make it a little more visually-appealing by decorating the doors with funny photos of you and your new spouse as children. 

    Photo Credit: Rob Sigler Photography

  • Food & Drinks

    Food & Drinks

    Popsicles are a classic summer treat, and these creamy sorbet bars are perfect for your wedding.

  • Food & Drinks

    Food & Drinks

    Mini hot dogs practically look gourmet with the right toppings.

  • Food & Drinks

    Food & Drinks

    What's even better than popsicles? Spiked popsicles. 

  • Photo Inspiration

    Photo Inspiration

    Don't forget the photo props to keep everyone smiling through the heat! Your guests will have so much with their beach balls, sunglasses, and funny signs that they'll almost forget how hot it is outside.

    Photo Credit: Playa Weddings

  • Reception Ideas

    Reception Ideas

    Geometric tropical fruit makes for fun and unexpected décor.

    Photo Credit: Playa Weddings

  • Transportation

    Transportation

    Is there anything better than riding in a convertible on a hot summer day? Travel from your ceremony to your reception in a parade of vintage cars with the tops down.

  • Ceremony Ideas

    Ceremony Ideas

    Set the tone for a fun wedding by having your bridal party dance down the aisle. 

    Photo Credit: Playa Weddings

  • Ceremony Idea

    Ceremony Idea

    Who says confetti is just for after you've exchanged vows? Make a memorable entrance by tossing confetti as you walk down the aisle.

    Photo Credit: Playa Weddings

  • Ceremony Ideas

    Ceremony Ideas

    Ask your guests to toss beach balls during your ceremony recessional.

    Photo Credit: Playa Weddings

  • Food & Drinks

    Food & Drinks

    When you're a DIY bride, stocking the bar can be a major source of stress — how much do you need? What's the right mix? Skip the headache and stick to bottles; simply fill stock tanks with various beers and wine coolers that'll appeal to all of your adult guests.

  • Photo Inspiration

    Photo Inspiration

    Encourage your guests to act as photographers by setting up a selfie station.

  • Reception Ideas

    Reception Ideas

    Summer camp vibes! Skip the tables and chairs, and dine under the trees on picnic blankets instead.

    Photo Credit: Shannon Stent Images 

  • Ceremony Ideas

    Ceremony Ideas

    Head to your local park and exchange vows inside a gazebo for an easy, earthy ceremony you'll never forget.

  • Reception Ideas

    Reception Ideas

    Save on decorations by hosting your wedding inside a greenhouse.

  • Reception Ideas

    Reception Ideas

    Give the kids a quiet place of their own to escape during the reception.

  • Photo Inspiration

    Photo Inspiration

    Protect yourselves from the sun and score some adorable photos with flower-inspired umbrellas.

25 Relaxed Summer Wedding Ideas

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