Weddings in the Good Old Summertime
Outdoor weddings are lovely. They take more planning, but they are worth it!
Summer time and the living is easy…and HOT!
Florida weddings, especially ones outside in the summer, require extra planning on your part. The staff at Golden Ocala has seen many weddings over the years, and we have tremendous experience helping you plan your outdoor wedding. Keeping your guests and wedding party comfortable is very important when nature is involved in the planning. There are some extras we have to think about!
The Weather
- Always have a weather back up plan! We have some beautiful options for bringing your wedding indoors in case it rains. Since it is your big day, make sure you are included in the decision making (at least 48 hours before)! Your ceremony vendors should be aware of the arrangements so they can plan your décor and other amenities accordingly.
- If humidity is playing havoc with your hair, arrange to have your make up and hair person available after the ceremony for a quick touch up before you are announced into the ballroom or getting ready for photos.
- Be considerate of your bridal party and their gowns. If it is going to be 92 degrees outside, do not plan a dress with long sleeves. Strapless is still fashionable or one shoulder, and a lot of brides are going to mid calf length or short for the ladies.
- Valet parking if it can be added to your budget, and it is a great way to take cover from the summer showers!
Staying Comfortable
- For an outdoor ceremony, plan it after the heat of the day. The closer to when the sun is getting ready to set, the better. Check your location to ensure there is no glare during the time of your ceremony.
- Don’t forget the sunscreen! SPF is your friend, and you’ll be happy to be sunburn-free when you get the pictures back from the wedding photographer.
- If ceremony is outside and it is very warm, arrange for your Ceremony Choreographer to do a quick spritz of either Evian or rose water on the shoulders of the bride and bridesmaids as they are getting ready to walk out.
- Mist fans are a wonderful idea! Be sure they are not too close to your guests so they do not get wet. If you area beach side, it may be acceptable depending on what guests are wearing.
- Beautiful glass containers with variety of waters are a nice touch as guests arrive – assorted berries or citrus are two popular choices.
- Be considerate of your bridal party and their gowns. If it is going to be 92 degrees outside, do not plan a dress with long sleeves. Strapless is still fashionable or one shoulder, and a lot of brides are going to mid calf length or short for the ladies.
- Stay hydrated and have bottled water available for the bridal party. Keep your meals light during the day, but be sure and eat, we certainly do not want anyone passing out. If you are going to consume alcohol, make it something refreshing and light like sangria, a mimosa or champagne punch. Don’t overindulge!
Outdoor wedding are beautiful affairs, and with the right planning yours will run smoothly. These tips, along with our own wedding kit for the bridal party, will help you be ready for most eventual surprises mother nature may send your way. Our staff looks forward to helping you enjoy your summer wedding!