As destination wedding photographers in Cancun, Mexico we are lucky to see a massive number of Summer weddings. That’s because, with the weather here, it’s pretty much like Summer all year round!

Over the years, we’ve been fortunate to witness some pretty unique Summer wedding ideas along with some popular mainstays that we never grow tired of. In this article, we’d like to share a number of these ideas with you, in addition to some new trends we’ve heard about, in the hopes of inspiring you to plan your own fabulously creative summer wedding.

Thematics: Summer Wedding Ideas and Themes

Finding the right summer wedding theme can be so much more than picking colors for dresses and table settings.  Often, it’s about something much bigger, whether you’re looking for a specific aesthetic, want to incorporate something meaningful into your nuptials or simply want to highlight the uniqueness of your destination.  We’ve seen all this and more in some amazing summer weddings, and included our personal top ten list.

Summer Carnival

For a fun, cheerful wedding, consider creating a beautiful summertime carnival wedding.  Bright colors, childhood snacks like popcorn and cotton candy, specialty entertainment and fun games at every turn make up a delightful event for all.

White-Out Wedding

Get inspired to create your all-white wedding by the work of our friend Mercedes at Le Blanc resort and Spa. She’s designed stunning all-white Cancun wedding décor, brimming with luxury and sophistication. It’s classic, bright, welcoming and draws attention to the beautiful scenery of the area.

Summer Brights

During the summer, brights can be spotted all over the wedding scene with colorful bouquets, place settings and invitations.

With this trend, the more the merrier, so you have the freedom to choose your favorite colors from among bright teals and turquoise blues, feminine fuschias or lively yellows to make up a truly spectacular summer color palette.

Pantone Pastels

Rose Quartz and Serenity were the official Pantone colors for 2016 and oh boy were they in full force.

These light blue and blush colors are simply gorgeous, whether paired together or separate, and make for a charming outdoor summer wedding that plays well into so many aesthetics, from romantically rustic to modern chic.

Gorgeous Geodes

One of the most recent trends in summer weddings has been the incorporation of Geodes into a wedding theme.  These colorful, multifaceted stones can bring sparkly bright tones into your celebration in a unique and innovative way.  These stones can be used to indicate table numbers, as centerpieces or a part of the cake decor.

Pretty Patterns

A new growing trend in summer weddings design is to bring out the big, bold patterns.  Prints like polka dot, stripes, ikat and more have been making appearances all over outdoor weddings to bring a unique, fun flare to any color scheme.

If you’re lucky enough to have a venue with geometric décor, as did our Riviera Maya wedding photography clients who wed at the upscale Azul Fives resort, you can integrate that into your wedding photos or décor as well.

Unplugged

The sun is out and the weather is (usually) gorgeous; summer is a season for being present. Encourage your guests to fully embrace the season and the moment with an unplugged wedding…or, at least, an unplugged ceremony. Guests are invited to turn off or silence their phones and other devices for part or all of the day, as everyone enjoys a wonderful time together.

Minimalism

If bold patterns and bright colors aren’t your thing, embrace your inner minimalist and consider the opposite; a simplistic, modern approach that lets the sun, the space and the natural environment speak for itself.

If you’re exchanging vows against a beautiful landscape, such as a beach, garden, desert, mountain or rocky terrain, this may be the best choice for your wedding photography anyway.

Brunch Weddings

Who doesn’t like brunch? You get the best of two meals of the day!

For those couples who aren’t as excited by a late evening extravaganza and would rather wed and mingle while the sun is bright and air is warm, maybe a morning or early afternoon brunch wedding is a better fit. With tempting menu selections like mimosas and pancakes, guests will be thrilled with this unconventional approach.

Family Style

Instead of the traditional buffet or sit down style, bring something new to the table, literally.

Big, family style dishes brought to each table allows for guests to pick and choose from local, summertime staples, without all the chaos of a buffet dinner or inflexibility of individually plated entrees.

Summertime Guest Goodies

Cookies, cupcakes, macaroons, sugar straws, rock candy. These little treats are some of the most creative and fun displays to see at a sunny summer wedding.  Attendants love seeing something colorful or tasty waiting for them at your reception, and you’re sure to enjoy them as well!

Poppin’ Popsicles

For a colorful way to stay cool in the heat during your outdoor wedding, have a small popsicle booth set up for kids and adults to eat and enjoy.  For something even more adult friendly, dip these colorful creations into prosecco.

Make Some Noise

For a festive summer fiesta feel and to encourage guests to get up and groove during your reception, include little guest gifts such as kazoos, maracas, whistles or shakers.

Buggin’ Out

Make your guests comfy in the hot weather with a table of sun time essentials for those not so pleasant side effects of being outdoors all day.

Bug spray, sunscreen, aloe vera, lip balm and fans are all thoughtful conveniences your guests will appreciate.

The Local Flare

If you’re aiming to give your guests an authentic destination wedding experience, incorporate the local scene into your gifts, food, or favors for a cultural touch that may also cut down on costs.  Work with the local vendors to select fruits and veggies that are ripe and ready during this time.

Foodie Favors

A gift idea your guests are sure to love is a delectable summertime treat as their favor after the evening is over. Locally crafted treats, cookies, candies, herbs and spices are all lovely consumable goods that guests will actually use rather than stuff in a drawer and forget about.

Fun with Fruits

Your summer wedding has great options to gift your guests with mouth-watering, local fruits. Reach out to your local orchard or farm to find out what’s in season. Watermelons, raspberries, blackberries, cherries, grapes, mangoes, apricots and figs can be presented in cute and colorful bowls or trays. You can mix the fruits or offer a single choice – whichever is convenient and speaks to you.

Location, Location, Location

Choosing where to have your ceremony or reception can be incredibly crucial in creating that special ambiance you want your wedding to have.  Recently, we’ve seen some remarkably creative and inspiring ideas in terms of location, venue, and overall use of the space for summer and outdoor weddings that we’re so excited to share with you.

A Most Private Affair

If you’re looking for a secluded space, a private island or private beach ceremony may be the perfect fit for your summer festivities.  Places like Jalisco, Mexico are known for their private, elegant wedding arrangements that will make planning simple and easy.

Get Glamping!

For a wedding that brings back those nostalgic feelings of summertime camping trips, consider the idea of glamping, or luxury camping.  Guests are invited to stay in canvas tents or luxurious cabins near the venue.  These glamping adventures are great for getting all of your guests together as well as cutting down on the expenses towards hotel fees. It’s also a big hit with little kiddos too, if they’re invited along.

Bridal Suite On Wheels

Packing light? For a fun outdoor summer experience, consider a mobile camper for your bridal suite. These can be customized and decorated to create a unique outdoor feel.

Sweet Seclusion

Think you’ll be overwhelmed after the ceremony?

Have a private dinner set up with just the two of you. Guests can enjoy socializing while you and yours indulge in a relaxing outdoor dinner amidst the bright summery landscape. Then, return to your guests satisfied and ready to mingle.

Marriage In Mexico

With this tip, we aren’t just being biased as Mexico wedding photographers. Cancun is Mexico’s number 1 tourist locale, and so it’s no surprise that it’s also a truly gorgeous place to tie the knot.

With sprawling beaches, it’s the perfect “I Do” destination for those looking to have the quintessential beach wedding in summer.

Bride On Board

If the beach doesn’t quite suit you, maybe a wedding or reception by boat or cruise will strike your fancy. Nothing quite says summer like time on the open water, floating over glistening waves. Choose a less crowded spot and you’ll also enjoy more privacy for you and your guests with this option.

Adult Oasis

For those looking to have a grown up summer affair, there are plenty of upscale, adult-only resorts and venues that are sure to provide all you need for that perfectly elegant event. Many offer attractive, all-inclusive packages that make planning a breeze.

Romantic Riviera Maya

For those looking for an adventurous summertime wedding and some of the most coveted photo spots, consider Mexico’s Riviera Maya. This stretch of coastline is perfect for wildlife sightings, unbelievable views and crystal clear turquoise water. Some of our absolute favorite images have been captured throughout this stretch of land.

Weekend Wedding Adventures

For you and the crew, a weekend long party may be the best idea yet.

If you’re looking to extend the festivities, plan some events and activities for the whole weekend with a close group of wedding guests to make the most of the trip. Whether its winery tours, horseback riding excursions or pampered spa days, you can show your guests an incredible time by planning a few extra adventures during your wedding weekend.

Crazy for Cabo

As far as destinations go, we love Cabo San Lucas for summer destination weddings.  This well-loved, celebrity sighted area is perfect for tying the knot in the sun and surf, and it’s only a two and a half hour flight from Los Angeles.

Cake, Cocktails and More!

Tangy Tarts

This citrusy creation consists of layers upon layers of beautiful lemons, limes and oranges to include this summer staple into your celebration. Whether you choose to serve a tart instead of traditional wedding cake or simply use whole or cut citrus fruits to decorate your cake, you can bring bright summery colors into your dessert.

Baked in Barbecue

The cake is in simple buttercream with red coloring added along with pulp of grapefruit and coconut. The single layered cake has caramelized grapefruit embellished on it. This cake is a perfect palate for a summer wedding with grapefruit zest, grapefruit and coconut pulp and broiled grapefruit on top for garnishing.

Inspired Iced Teas

Take tea to a new level and refresh your guests with unique flavors. Mint-ginger with honey, lemon flavored, apple-mint, strawberry, apple and jasmine flavored iced teas are some of the unconventional ice teas that are perfect for summer sipping. Have them ready to serve as soon as guests arrive for your outdoor ceremony and you’ll win them over in an instant.

Summer Slushies

Orange cream, watermelon sour-patch, Hawaiian punch, kiwi strawberry, raspberry, cherry, and pina colada are some enticing, all-grown-up slurpee flavors.

Lovin’ Lemonade

These days, lemonade is so much more than just lemons. Cranberry, Strawberry Basil, Raspberry, Mango Mint, Blueberry, Peach and Cherry are some a few ways to infuse your summertime wedding lemonade. Another classic to consider as a guest treat upon entrance to your outdoor nuptials.

Mocktails

Strawberry balsamic basil, cucumber limeade, peach limeade, cranberry, ginger punch, lemon berry sparklers etc. can add a playful twist to your summer wedding.

The Essentials

With summer weddings come summer cocktails.  Keep up with the classics, like Lemon Drops and Mojitos, by adding interesting new additions such as cucumber or blueberry, as well as elderflower, pear or whatever strikes your fancy.

Crazy Combos

Tired of the summer standbys? Mix it up this summer with a crazy twist on refreshing summer cocktails. Some bartenders have started to combine all your favorites, like a whisky sour with red sangria! Like you and your fiancé,some things are just better together.

Fancy Finger Food

Finger food is always a hit during a busy, bustling summer wedding, as it’s easy, tasty and doesn’t distract from the dance floor! Options like caprese skewers, with Mozzarella, juicy tomatoes and basil leaves, all covered in tangy-sweet balsamic sauce, keep it light and are sure to delight.

Twisting the Classics

Changing up classic hors d’oeuvres like shrimp cocktail by adding new elements such as fresh tomatoes and basil is a great way to serve a fresh, cool summer appetizer for guests.

Cucumber Gazpacho Shots

Yum! This chilled soup combines fresh cucumber and peppers with spearmint to craft a summer remedy that is as unexpected as it is refreshing.

Succulent Seafood

If you’re going for a beachside summer event, local seafood is a must on the menu. Seafood Salads, such as crab meat salad with chili powder, jalapeno, lime and cilantro, as well as fresh veggies, are a simple way to incorporate the tastes of the sea into your wedding.

Salad Surprise

Forget the large buffet style green salads this summer, and change it up to feature some fresh new tastes of the season.  Mini caesar salads, watermelon salads, potatoes with lime juice and cranberry, as well as pear and orange salads are unique twists that your friends and family are sure to love.

Sunny Suppers

For many of us, summer is all about the barbecue, and gathering around to enjoy a beautifully grilled meal.  Inspired by this concept, options like a barbecued chicken breast wtih braised red onions and carrots can be delicious, but slightly lighter than your traditional red meat heavy barbecue.

Let Veggies Veg Out

Picking out local vegetables for a main entree option is a great way to give your vegetarian guests a unique taste of the summer season and location.  Specific ideas include fresh salsa and parmesan potatoes, along with many other baked veggie dishes.

S’mores Bar

Who doesn’t love S’mores? Adding a s’mores station, whether pre-made or ready to toast and assemble, is a surefire way to send your guests into chocolate-marshmallow heaven.

Snow Cone Set Up

Nothing says summer quite like these icy treats.  Setting up a snow cone station is a perfect refreshing dessert that is light and cooling. Choose flavors and food dye that compliment your wedding color palette to tie everything in together.

I Scream for Ice Cream

We can probably agree that summer is much more about ice cream than it is about cake, so an ice cream station is a great, versatile way to incorporate refreshing, cool treats into your dessert display. This treat can be dressed up or down, offered by itself, or as part of a larger sundae bar.

Midnight Munchies

More and more couples are accommodating those late night munchies that come with dancing all night. And with the sun setting later in the evening during summer months, parties tend to run longer. Late night goodies can keep your guests fueled until the last song has finished.

Cotton Candy Cart

If you’re going for the summer carnival theme, these treats can’t be missed.  Have a small station set up with these little blue and pink treats, and bring out the little kid in every guest.

Ice Cream Sandwiches

If you’re hoping to bring back some summer nostalgia for your guests, consider a common childhood favorite: Ice cream sandwiches.  You can have these treats handmade and ready or let guests have a ball choosing the cookies and flavors themselves for the perfect customizable treat.

Wine and Dine

For the wine loving couple, a wine and cheese pairing may be a great addition to your summer festivities.  Pair your favorite summer wines with creative cheeses, spreads and finger foods to create some amazing comibnations.

Tiny Cakes

Ditch the jumbo sized tiered cakes this season for a lighter summer feel. Tiny cakes can be made in a variety of ways including ‘naked’ cakes without icing for a simple boho feel.

Wine Smoothies

Say what? For the ultimate cool treat this summer, featuring these slushy-like cocktails as your signature drink is a refreshing, unexpected blend of two classics.

Smile for the Camera!

You’re wedding day is something to treasure and remember forever, and what better way to do so, than to have a full selection of wedding photos? As destination wedding photographers who are all too familiar with summer’s best photo opps, we’ve hand-picked some of our favorite shots that really showcase the personalities of each couple, making sure that these carefully crafted shots are exceptionally unique and will be cherished for years to come.

Sunset

An absolute classic.  Capture the true beauty of summer with this timeless, carefully timed photo that is sure to be a stunner in your wedding album.

Underwater Shot

Cancun Wedding Photographer Cenote Trash The dress Photos. For summer and destination weddings, the underwater wedding photo may be here to stay.

This current trend is one of our all time favorites. Some brides trash the dress with paint or mud, but our underwater couples take a dip in the deep blue, creating a sexy and romantic image they simple can’t get above ground.

Photographer Photo

If you’ve had an amazing experience with your photographer, don’t forget to snap a quick photo with them to remember the night by. We love bonding with couples on their big day and making sure they get exactly what they need in a wedding album. Our clients become our friends, so these behind-the-scenes shots are gold to us.

A Private Moment

Whether it’s a snapshot of you enjoying mini getaway between the ceremony and reception or an surprise click of the two of you holding hands during your meal, those secret personal moments can tell the real story behind your big day.

When you’re laughing together or munching on some tasty treats, you’re no longer focused on being in front of the camera and the true bond between you can come through.

Trash the dress

For those who aren’t attached to their gown, trash the dress photos have been gaining more and more popularity.

Have an outdoor field day allowing guests to cover the dress, and yourself in paint, silly string, glitter or any other materials that strike your fancy. Or, if you’re close to a beach or pool, take your wedding attire for a dip in the water.

Sunny Selfie

The Selfie is alive and well, so why not incorporate it in your wedding? Get out in the sunshine and have your photographer grab a snapshot of you and yours taking a selfie for a sweet, modern photo. Yes, it might be a bit trendy, but it will also serve as a time capsule reflecting a common activity of the times.

Beat the Heat

For those looking for an element of sweetness for their wedding album, consider taking a picture of the two of you one your special day with some frozen treats.  This is such a fun way to enjoy your wedding photos and cool off from the summer heat at the same time.

Love Letters

Cancun Wedding Photographer

If the two of you are wordsmiths, consider snapping a shot of previously written or handwritten notes to your wedding album.  This photo, which can include both notes, the rings and some decoration, adds true personalization to any album.

The First Look

Playing into the tradition of not seeing the bride before the big day, this touching photo perfectly captures how excited the couple is to see each other and tie the knot.  An absolute staple for the wedding album.

Exquisite Ensembles

There’s something about summer that seems to give brides more freedom to step outside tradition and don unique bridal styles that just don’t work as well in other seasons. Let’s explore some fashionable alternatives that will help you express yourself and take advantage of the season as well.

Ocean Inspired Jewelry

Bring out your inner mermaid with ocean inspired jewels featuring gorgeous materials like sea glass, starfish and seashell charms or genuine freshwater pearls. One of our darling brides traded jewels for cake and accessorized herself by walking along the beach with her seashell designed wedding cake.

Create a Color Palette

For some time brides have chosen to give their maids the freedom to choose a variety of dress styles all in the same color. Now, we’re seeing some of our clients take this trend further by mixing up the colors too.

Instead of just featuring one color for the bridesmaids dresses, you can spice up your color palette with a variety of summer shades or an ombre effect, where each maid wears a slightly darker shade of the same color.

Blushing Bride

If you’re not into an all white gown, consider looking at blush colored gowns for a unique look that is soft and summery.

One of our clients blended a bit of both with a stunning pink gown layered in elaborate white lace.

Patterned Perfection

Ditch the solid color dresses this season, and opt for a brightly colored print for your bridesmaids dresses that reflects the lovely florals, patterns and colors of summer.

Or take a cue from some of our past clients and incorporate pattern into the getting ready phase of the day to create some colorful bridal suite photo opps.

Sunny Separates

It’s official. Crop tops are in, and not just for casual wear.

Bridal separates have come back into fashion, featuring a full skirt and beaded cropped bodice for that summery, boho feel.

All That Glitters

Whether it’s for the bride, the bridesmaids, or even the groom, sequins and sparkles are having a moment too. Incorporate these twinkling treats into your ensemble for a glowing look that will shimmer against the season’s beaming sunrays.

Freeing Flats

Flats and sandals are ideal for summer weddings. Comfy, casual and cute.

Not only are they super fashionable, but also functional.  Flats are a great addition to your wardrobe if you’re planning a beach or outdoor wedding, as you won’t have to worry about grass, sand or uneven ground cramping your bridal style.

Right Off the Runway

If you love high fashion, but long for a laid back, summery style in your bridal gown, look no further than today’s up and coming trends in wedding fashion. Styles include off the shoulder sleeves, airy skirts and 3D floral elements, which all go perfectly with a summery boho theme.

Rock a Bold Lip

If you love bold color palettes for summer, consider putting it on your lips as well.  Bold reds, fuschias and even violets are a great, fun way to brighten up your features on your big day.

Charming Chokers

Chokers have made a comeback. The popular 90s fashion statement has now found its way into weddings as well. If you’re into throwback style, a lace, silver or gold choker can bring a little formality to a more relaxed boho summer dress or a bit of sophistication to an off-the-shoulder gown.

Vote for Vintage

If you want a touch of something old, or at least inspired by the old, consider adding one or two fit-for-summer vintage elements, such as an old parasol, floral print purse, heirloom 60s floral bridal headband or antique mesh veil.

All for Accessories

If you’re looking for a little extra glamour without adding too many heavy layers, sultry shoulder jewelry can take your light summer gown to a whole new level. Complete the look with earring jackets and tassels for you and your bridal party.

Dashing Decor

Once you’ve planned out some of the larger elements of your special day, like the location and theme, it’s time to start thinking about the fine details.  These fun summer-inspired additions can make a big impact and bring the whole concept together.  From simple yet sophisticated table settings to out of this world overhead arrangements, a little design ingenuity can create a spectacular summery showcase.

Noted

This tip is particularly helpful for summer destination weddings. To make guests feel special and welcome at your wedding, especially if they have traveled quite a distance for your summer shindig, consider writing them a little, personal note.

At each place setting, leave a little message of well wishing and thanks to let guest know that you care. Can you imagine how appreciated your attendees will feel when they arrive to find a personal, handwritten note from you just for them?!

Seashell signage

Hosting a beach or seaside wedding? Surprise your guests with natural seashell signage throughout. They can be hung from above, incorporated into lighting, added to table center displays or used as place setting holders.

Fancy Fresh

Be original and swap traditional flowers for fresh fruit instead.  Lemons, limes, oranges, grapefruit and other brightly colored citrus fruits offer a bright twist on summer décor and won’t wilt between the ceremony and reception.  As an added bonus, they can double as guest favors at the end of the event.

Crazy for Crepe

The summer heat can be harsh on flowers and foliage.  To keep your tables looking fresh and wilt-free all day, opt for creative crepe paper flowers instead.

Build the Bouquet

To bring together all the bright summer flowers in a unique way that involves your entire guest list, have your guests build the bridal bouquet as she walks down the aisle. Guests choose a flower they think best suits the bride and present it to her as she walks down the aisle for a sweet summer surprise.

Game Time

Since summer is all about fun and games, leave a pack of cards on every table or a little board game. These little games can act as an innovate centerpiece while also breaking the ice among tablemates and entertaining guests of all ages.

Understated Elegance

Centerpieces don’t have to be extravagant to wow the crowd, as we’ve seen time and time again.  For a subtle hint of summer simplicity, mix coral or sea glass with simple foliage, rocks and candles.

Mason Jar Madness

If you’re rustic at heart and could never outgrow mason jars, then here is an idea for making them a functional part of your day. As guests collect their table cards, they can also pick up a crafty mason jar with built-in name label to act as their glass for the night.  Guests can fill this glass with anything from water to beer to a tasty cocktail and then take them home at the end of the night.

Flower Power

If you can gather a nice selection of more affordable native summer flowers, you may have more than just beautiful décor on your hands. Entertain your guests after your nuptials with a floral craft table filled with local, in-season flowers from the area. When you’re tied up with post-ceremony photo shoots, guests can go to town creating their own small bouquets with a refreshing cocktail in hand. Then, display their works of art at the center of each table or across the head table. You’ll keep your attendees occupied brighten up your event with a summery wash of color.

Overhead Elements

Having an outdoor summer reception with plenty of tree cover? Consider moving the centerpieces from the table, to up above.

These pieces can make your space feel like an enchanted summer oasis for your guests, as they can look up to see floral arrangements, twinkling lights, lanterns and other beautiful additions.

Get with Garland

Summer wedding trends tend to bring out some of the best of nature, and garland is no different.  This beautiful foliage can be used to decorate your tables and centerpieces in a natural, beautiful way.

 Decked out Drinks

For those looking to add a tropical flare to their summer wedding, start with the beverages.  Adding fun little trinkets like local flowers, tropical blown glass drink stirrers, fun umbrellas and crazy straws will give your wedding a touch of tropical paradise.

Build a Backdrop

Elevate your outdoor wedding look with homemade, festive backdrops that match your summertime theme. Using simple materials like crepe paper, cloth, ribbons and tassles, you can spruce up your décor with an elaborate custom made backdrop.

Talents on the Table

If you’re all about a fun, informal summer wedding idea, consider laying down a layer of butcher paper on your tables, and leaving out glitter pens, crayons and markers.  Guests remember the fun and freedom of summers as a kid, and will have a blast getting creative over dinner and drinks.

Outdoors, Indoors

Whether it’s personal preference, or weather restraints, summer weddings can often be moved inside for convenience.  But that doesn’t mean you can’t bring the natural feel into your reception.  Incorporate some outdoor summer elements like twinkle lights or foliage and greenery, to give a natural feel to your indoor space.

Funny Festivities

Light, airy and laid back, summer is the perfect season for silliness.

Drop a humorous line or playful joke into your invitations, signage, cocktails or guest book to lighten the mood and make your wedding fun right from the start. Hand out oversized hats, sunglasses and goofy attire during the reception to turn a celebration into a full blown party.

Herbal Arrangements

Instead of flower arrangements for your bouquet, maybe fresh herbs is more up your alley.  These lush green arrangements are simply stunning, and fresh smelling with in season herbs and greenery.

Chair Bouquets

Instead of leaving your chairs bare or dressed only with simple fabric, consider tying up small flower arrangements or curled ribbons to the backs of your ceremony chairs to add a little extra flair.

Fun & Fanfair

Every year, couples are making their weddings more and more about the guest experience. These are some of the most fun, creative summer activities we’ve come across that couples are conjuring up to wow their guests and keep them happily entertained.

The Exit is the New Entrance

The notion of having a creative final exit from your wedding has been steadily gaining popularity among couples looking to make the most of their reception.  To brighten the final moments of a great summer evening, consider incorporating sparklers, confetti, or a final group dance to shake things up and bring the house down.

Marching or Mariachi Band Entrance

Nothing says summer like a party, so get things started with a grand entrance.  Couples can choose to enter with an upbeat, yet small band to let guests know, they have arrived!

Kids Corner

For guests with small children, a kids corner is a great way to insure that both the adults and kiddos have a chance to enjoy the summertime festivities.  There’s so much to do in these fun little tents. Set up few tables with different summer themed activities and games for easy entertainment for all. Think washable paint and easels (with paint smocks, of course), toss the ball in the bucket games, bubbles, rubber ducky water races and other carnival-inspired play.

First Dance Sparklers

Let guests enjoy your special moment with you by ushering you into your first dance as a married couple with brilliant summer sparklers.

Oversized Events

To transform your wedding into a summertime fun fest, add some oversized lawn games intothe mix.  Checkers, twister, connect four, Jinga and other games can be made jumbo sized for a fresh new playing experience.

Fiery Fun

If you’re looking to keep up with the summertime camping theme, consider setting up a bonfire during your outdoor reception or providing fiery entertainment for them on the beach.  Guests can wrap up in blankets, cuddle up, and roast some marshmallows from the s’mores bar.

Cigar Bar

Treat your guests to something new by setting up a fun and festive cigar bar.  Attendants can enjoy the summer night with a fanciful treat you don’t see at most weddings.

Announcements & Beyond

With a few creative ideas and a little technology, there is no reason for your big announcement to take a back seat to the rest of your wedding planning. To wrap up our massive list of 101 summer wedding ideas, here are a few announcement techniques we’ve seen summer couples use to get the word out about their big event as well as hint at what makes a great wedding gift.

Wedding on the Web

If summertime is approaching and invitees are spending more time outside then in, it’s inevitable that some invites will get lost. That’s why a wedding website is a great tool for keeping your guests informed and giving them an effortless way to find information when the physical invite has been misplaced. From dates and times to registry information, a wedding website can be an extreme convenience for on-the-go guests.

Watercolor Wedding

Watercolor design has been a lovely addition to the graphic artist world in the past few years and is a gorgeous choice for summer stationery. With a simple, abstract and cheerful design, watercolor art can look beautiful in almost any color scheme, from pastels to primaries.

Honeymoon Help

The gift registry tradition has evolved. Many couples today have lived on their own for some time prior to getting married, nearly eliminating the need for conventional household items. Instead, these modern couples are now looking for help with larger life expenses, like new household appliances, or assistance in funding a romantic getaway to celebrate their new union. If that sounds like you, consider a cash or honeymoon registry such as Honeyfund. This allows guests to contribute to your new life in a more practical, meaningful way.

Social Snapshots

Cool with day-of, “live” wedding photo leaks? Invite guests to take photos and post them on facebook or instagram with your own custom wedding Hashtag.  Examples include #bethandsamgettinghitched or #kellerwedding2016.  Guests often post some of the most interesting surprise shots of the couple that you might not have the joy of seeing if there were no organized way to collect them all while they happen. With this approach, everyone will get to experience your wedding from all angles and you’ll have an easy way to access a fun, informal perspective of your wedding day, courtesy of your friends and family.

Get Inspired to Plan Your Summer Wedding Today

There you have it! We’ve rounded out 101 unique summer wedding ideas that we hope will inspire you to plan your own spectacular seasonal nuptials. Have your own creative summer wedding ideas to contribute? Leave a comment to add to our growing list.