Summer is one of the most popular seasons to say “I Do” in. With June ranking as the number one summer month for an outdoor wedding. Accompanied by daylight lasting until almost 9:00 P.m. depending on the month and the area. There are a variety of floral opportunities as most flowers bloom during the spring and blossom in the Summer. Basically, you’ll be able to find a flower for every color scheme.
Summer weddings are also known to have more fun fresh food options from fruit, meat, and cheese making an interesting menu. As it is the time of vacation, a lot more families are willing to travel to destination weddings due to the time and freedom. Lastly because of the warmer weather brides have a larger variety of wedding dresses to choose from. Dresses without straps and sleeves make great for many bridal visions of their perfect dress. The summertime provides the perfect to show off those shoulders.
There are countless choices in soft, airy, and breathable fabrics, such as polyester, silk, and rayon.
1. Dress Code
Black Tie/Formal
Black tie or formal events normally call for guests to wear suits or tuxedos. Evening gowns and elegant suits are the standard for black tie and should be the first consideration for women shopping for this type of dress code. More specifically, guests can go all out with a trumpet or ball gown silhouette, formal cocktail dresses, or keep it simple with a dressy sheath made from rich fabrics and fine details.
White Tie
Same as a Black Tie but considered with a White tie. Women should wear a formal, floor-length evening gown with jewelry, heels, and an elegant clutch. Men are required to wear a tuxedo with tails, a formal white shirt, a vest, a bow tie, white or gray gloves, and formal footwear, such as derby shoes or oxfords.
Semi-Formal
Semi-formal is like a black tie but more relaxed. Jumpsuits, bold prints, and shorter styles. Flats and a fun sandal are also great shoe options to top your outfit. The key to making sure you are in the dress code for this event is to know when the ceremony will take place. For evening events, darker, more formal colors are recommended, while light colors and airy fabrics work best for daytime affairs. Women can wear below-the-knee dresses, slip dresses, a dressy skirt, and top, or an elegant pantsuit. As for men, a dress shirt and slacks, with the option to wear a tie.
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Casual
Casual wedding attire is clothing that’s comfortable and easy to dance in, nothing fussy or over the top. Most casual weddings are held outdoors, so this style of attire should be something that works during the day and at night. Avoid jeans, shorts, tank tops, and tennis shoes, unless the invitation specifically says otherwise. Sandals are tricky, as some might consider them too casual for an event like a wedding. Again, rely on the invitation to steer you in the right direction.
2. Hairstyles
Whether you have braids, dreads, weaves, or a natural the vital thing is that your hair should be the right length, to make your hairstyle beautiful. For long hair, you can wear them up in a ponytail or bun. If you have short hair, use a headband to secure it into place, or wear it down with a flower pinned on top of it.
3. Accessories
Nothing flashy. Any jewelry that stands out should be worn by the couple getting married. Leave the statement pieces at home and only accessorize with jewelry that doesn’t attract too much attention. We recommend jewelry that complements your attire. You should select simple patterns and solid colors to make your outfit pop.
4. Shoes
Along with comfort, shoes are meant to compliment your outfit. If the hem is sparkly, then go for a statement sparkly shoe. If the dress is a clean satin then consider a clean pump or open-toe or soft lace. When the fabric of the shoe doesn’t match well with the dress, then your safest bet is to do a clean shoe.
5. Follow The Etiquette Rules
RSVP by the date requested.
No exceptions. The couple needs to know your attendance by that date so they can finalize the details.
Don’t assume you can bring a guest.
Or that your kids can come! Your invitation will indicate who’s welcome.
RSVP response is critical.
If you said months ago you’re attending solo, then attend solo.
No white in the crowd.
You’re not the bride. Unless the couple specifically requests a white dress code.
Show up at the time requested.
Arriving earlier than 30 minutes prior to the ceremony could throw off the hosts if they’re not ready causing a bigger panic. If you can’t get there at least 10 minutes prior to the start time, you are better off not showing up.
Give what you can.
You should give based on your budget and relationship to the couple.
If you bring a gift to the reception.
Many venues and planners won’t accept responsibility for gifts due to liability, so a family member will have to collect them after the reception.
No phones allowed.
A photographer was hired for a reason. Nothing ruins a picture-perfect moment more than your big phone in the middle of the shot.
Don’t make the first social media post.
Posting a picture of the bride or groom before getting the go-ahead steals the light from the couple
Let the newlyweds eat.
Since wedding days are often long and sometimes stressful, one of the few moments the couple has together is during dinner.
Eat what is on your plate.
For those guests with dietary restrictions or food allergies, be sure to let your host know on the RSVP card. This way, the couple can inform their caterer and make special arrangements for you.
Are you on the “Toasting” List.
Wedding planners and couples often create a day-of schedule and hand-select speakers.
Pace yourself when getting intoxicated.
Make sure you don’t go over your limit. If not for your own embarrassment, for the bride and groom.
