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Writer's pictureLauren Tracy

How to Beat the Heat: Keeping Your Guests Cool at a Summer Wedding


outdoor summer wedding chairs with cooling fans on them
Photo by: Leigh Hayward Photography

Summer is one of the best times of year to have your wedding. The long days, warm evenings, and natural beauty seem to shine a little brighter during that time. But let’s be honest, with that beauty comes one undeniable challenge: the heat. In places like Charleston, that summer heat can extend from April to October. So, if you're planning a wedding during that time in Charleston or any similarly warm climate, keeping your guests cool isn't just a thoughtful detail; it is essential to ensure everyone enjoys the day.


At Direct My Day, we understand the importance of blending comfort with elegance, especially for high-end weddings. So, we have compiled some of our favorite ways to keep guests cool and comfortable without risking your aesthetic on even the hottest of days. 


Disguise the AC with Elegance

Though necessary, air conditioning units for places without central AC are not an aesthetically pleasing addition to your wedding décor. But with some creative flair, they can go unnoticed aside from the relief from the heat they provide. By partnering with professionals like Drape My Day, you can strategically place beautiful draping to hide these necessary but unattractive elements seamlessly. The result? A cool, comfortable environment where the air conditioning works behind the scenes, allowing your decor to remain the star of the show.


Whether in the reception area, cocktail lounge, or covered outdoor space, keeping things cool without compromising style is key. Be sure to strategically position units near high-traffic areas like dance floors and bar stations to keep guests refreshed where it matters most.


Doors & Tent Walls: Create a Climate-Controlled Space

Outdoor weddings are undeniably romantic but can also be uncomfortable if the heat gets the best of your guests. An excellent solution is a fully enclosed tent with added doors and tent walls to help trap in cool air when needed and block out the relentless summer heat. When it comes to the materials for your tent, opt for lightweight yet durable fabrics that allow air circulation while keeping the sun’s heat at bay.


With a properly executed tent strategy, your wedding will feel like an intimate, air-conditioned retreat while still having the element of an outdoor event in a prime location. 


The Clear-Top Tent Dilemma

Clear-top tents are undeniably stunning and perfect for stargazing or embracing the natural surroundings. However, these elegant structures can quickly turn into hot and miserable greenhouses when it comes to summer weddings. If your heart is set on a clear-top tent, there’s a simple workaround: timing.


Plan to start your event later in the day, after the peak heat of the afternoon has passed. This way, you can still take full advantage of the tent’s beauty without subjecting your guests to unbearable heat. Additionally, consider tarping the tent during the day to minimize heat build-up, and only remove it just before your guests arrive. This allows you to preserve the aesthetics while keeping things cool.


Keep Air Circulating with Fans

Fans may sound like an obvious solution, but their placement and design can make all the difference. High-end weddings call for high-end details, and the fans you choose should be no exception. Opt for sleek, stylish fans that complement your decor and are strategically placed in the right areas.


Make sure fans are positioned around the guest seating, cocktail areas, and especially around the dance floor, where your guests are likely to feel the heat the most. This will keep the air circulating and ensure your guests can enjoy every moment of your wedding without feeling overheated.


Hydration Stations: Keep Guests Refreshed from the Start

Dehydration can be a major issue in the summer heat. Guests becoming parched and uncomfortable will ruin their experience and even cause them harm. An excellent solution is a chic hydration station. Inspired by our own Direct My Bar services, a non-alcoholic hydration station featuring chilled, infused waters—think cucumber mint or citrus—offers a refreshing, high-end touch before and during the ceremony.


Position the station where guests can easily access it, especially upon arrival. By encouraging hydration from the start, you’re subtly ensuring they’ll remain comfortable throughout the celebration. It’s a small but impactful detail that doesn’t go unnoticed.


Ceremony Comfort: Umbrellas & Fans at the Ready

For an outdoor ceremony, where direct sunlight is unavoidable, consider providing personal fans or parasols for your guests. Umbrellas or parasols offer a stylish solution for shade during the ceremony. Not only do they protect against the sun, but they also add a touch of elegance to your outdoor decor.


Set up handheld fans at each guest’s seat or at the welcome table for a practical yet thoughtful detail. Guests will appreciate the gesture, and it helps set the tone for a well-planned, guest-focused celebration.


Additional Unique Cooling Ideas to Elevate Your Event

If you really want to leave an impression, consider some of these unique, high-end touches to keep guests cool:


  • Cooling Towels: Distribute cool, refreshing towels during scorching moments of the day, such as before or after the ceremony. 

  • Chilled Treats: Offer popsicles or chilled fruit during cocktail hour. This cools down guests and adds a fun, memorable touch to your summer wedding.


Contact Direct My Day to Plan a Perfectly Curated Summer Wedding Today! 

While a summer wedding promises beautiful, sun-filled moments, ensuring your guests remain comfortable in the heat is essential. With thoughtful planning and creative touches, you can create a luxurious wedding experience where comfort meets style.


At Direct My Day, we specialize in planning weddings that look stunning and feel amazing for you and your guests. Ready to create a summer wedding that beats the heat? Contact us today to start planning your perfect day.

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