DÉCOR
Simply put, Gregoli says that “an all white summer wedding is stunning.” The crisp, clean vibe translates well to high heat and long days. But don’t think that gardenias (or roses, or tulips) are your best bet for blooms—you must steer away from delicate flowers, for they will not hold up in the heat. Instead, try heartier blossoms like calla lilies, regular lilies and a variety of orchids.
Another great way to celebrate the summer season at your wedding is to use in-season fruits and vegetables as a part of your actual décor. Try tossing some clementines or cumquats into your flower arrangements, or for a budget-friendly option, fill a vase with bright yellow lemons and vibrant green apples—it’s clean, classic and works well with the heat.
Weiss loves the color combo of yellow, orange and green—an incredibly vibrant trio of colors “that take on a different hue as the sun goes down but still make a statement throughout the evening.”
But don’t forget to take the heat—and thus your guests’ comfort—into account. Going to be standing outside for a while? Gregoli recommends providing at least your bridal party, if not all guests, with super-chic parasols (that you can even monogram). Leave wicker or paper fans on ceremony chairs to ensure that everyone keeps their cool.
Next: Food >>
FOOD
For something a little more generous, try a nice cut of fish, such as grilled tuna or halibut—two commonly served fish that are bound to do well with your guests. Or opt for fresh shellfish such as lobsters, oysters and shrimp. Weiss also recommends poached grilled chicken and grilled vegetables—what says summer more than some serious grill marks? Don’t forget you can incorporate fruit into your main course as well—try grilled peaches over chicken, or make a delicious peach salsa served over fish or poultry. Between courses try a trio of mango, raspberry and champagne sorbet to keep your guests cool and refreshed.
DRINKS
You gotta keep your guests hydrated if you want them dancing all night long! Both Weiss and Gregoli agree having water, lemonade and juice stations both before and during the ceremony is key. At all times guests should be able to find liquids—the non-alcoholic ones, that is.
Regarding your cocktails, anything watermelon is sure to be an unexpected treat—not many drinks feature the vibrant summer fruit. The color and taste of a cool watermelon martini, mojito or infused-vodka will most certainly be proud pleasers. Gregoli’s other top cocktail suggestions include mango or blood orange margaritas, rum punch, and lemonade caprinhas—a sweet, iced lemonade beverage.
Next: Cake >>
CAKE
Finding a lavish yet traditional wedding cake that can actually withstand the high temperature of a summer day or night seems like an impossible task. Weiss warns that almost no confection can withstand the heat. She recommends serving the cake indoors exclusively. If you can't, follow Gregoli's advice and opt for one frosted with buttercream, as fondant can sweat and whipped cream will melt. Great flavor pairings include a lemon- or orange-based cake with a berry filling or a light vanilla ice cream (!) cake. Be sure to avoid heavy cake flavors such as chocolate or spiced, as well as heavy custards or cream fillings. Instead, incorporate fresh fruit—even as the cake’s decoration. You can also get super creative by creating a “faux” cake, like an artfully-designed cake of French macaroons.
FAVORS
For the perfect finish to a summer affair, Greogli suggests sending your guest home with a taste of the season—literally! Earlier in the summer try a fresh peach, while in August try a crisp pear. Weiss proposes a glass of pear jam with a label that reads “A Perfect Pear.” How could all your guests not smile at that? For a beachside or themed wedding, consider giving out perfect sand dollars, seashells or sea-inspired candles. Potted lavender plants (as seen on the Sex and the City Hamptons wedding episode) are both beautiful and smell great, plus provide the added benefit of helping reduce stress. Now get planning!
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