10 Essential Tips for Couples on a Hot Wedding Day
If there’s one thing you can’t control on your wedding day, it’s the weather! As a photographer who has witnessed weddings in various conditions, including scorching hot wedding days, I understand the importance of staying cool, comfortable, and stress-free. So, when temperatures rise, it’s essential to be prepared. Whether you’re planning a relaxed outdoor soiree or a marquee wedding, these tips will help you and your guests stay cool and make the most of your hot wedding day.
Stay Hydrated
Hydration is key when it comes to hot wedding days, so ensure that water is readily available for you and your guests. Start the day off right by drinking plenty of it too; this will ensure you are well hydrated before you walk down the aisle to say ‘I Do’.
Choose Your Attire Wisely
Hot weddings require lighter fabrics, fewer layers and breathable options, so consider all these things when choosing your attire. Opt for lighter-coloured fabrics as these tend to reflect more sunlight, helping to keep you cooler. When choosing a wedding dress, opt for minimal layers and a floaty style. This will help you to stay cool and comfortable throughout the day.
Embrace The Shade
Having areas where you and your guests can seek shade is the perfect way to keep cool on a hot wedding day. Also, consider having umbrellas or providing parasols for extra shade. These make for great photography opportunities, too!
Provide Cooling Stations, Treats and Carepacks
If you’re having an outdoor ceremony, adding handheld fans to your guests’ seats will help to keep them cool. Set up cooling stations with antiperspirant, hand gels, sun protection and cooling sprays too; these could be added to restrooms so your guests can freshen up when needed. Ice cold drinks, ice cream, and popsicle stands make refreshing treats and will help you stay cool and hydrated throughout the day.
Time Photos Wisely
Your photographer should be your guide on scheduling certain photos at cooler times of the day. Early mornings are ideal, so if you are not following tradition, you could get some pre-wedding shots or first-look shots too. Late afternoon and early evenings are also ideal to avoid harsh midday sun. Sunset photography is perfect for capturing the pure romance of your day.
Have An Indoor Alternative
If the heat is just too much to handle, have a backup plan for your ceremony and an indoor alternative for photographs. If possible, at your venue marquee weddings are a versatile option for shelter from the sun while still enjoying an outdoor atmosphere.
Take Breaks
Taking breaks throughout your wedding day is always a good idea, whether it’s hot or not. It gives you some downtime as newlyweds and a chance for an intimate moment to reflect on the day. Step away from the festivities for a few moments to rest, relax, and recharge.
Be Flexible and Open-minded
Be prepared to adapt to changing circumstances and unexpected challenges on your wedding day. Stay flexible and open-minded, and trust that everything will work out as it’s meant to.
Choose A Versatile Venue
Ventilation is key when it comes to a hot wedding day. Air-con is perfect for keeping cool inside your venue; however, if this is not an option, then consider a venue with natural airflow or open sides to allow for ventilation. Marquee and barn weddings combine the beauty of the outdoors with the comfort of indoor amenities. The photo below was taken at the Hall Barns in Leicestershire, and it’s one of my favourite wedding venues
Embrace The Heat
Embrace the heat, of course! Challenges come with any weather conditions, but making the most of your special day is the best thing you can do. Remember that on a hot wedding day, you’ll get different photographs and different experiences than if it were raining or windy? Making memories is what’s important, so get candid shots of guests fanning themselves, sipping cold drinks, and playing lawn games!
Remember to have fun and enjoy every moment of your wedding day, regardless of the weather. By following these tips, you can beat the heat and make your wedding day a truly unforgettable experience.
I shoot weddings in Nottingham, Leicestershire, Derbyshire and the wider UK. If you need a photographer to capture candid photos of guests with fans, get in touch!