If you’re planning a summer wedding in New York (or honestly, anywhere on the East Coast), then you already know the weather can be a lot. We’re talking humidity that frizzes every blowout, heat that tests your sweat proof makeup, and sunshine so intense your guests will be sprinting toward the nearest shade.
But don’t worry, this wedding survival guide has you covered.
As a wedding planner who’s weathered more than a few 90-degree celebrations (yes, even in full black attire), I’m sharing the top strategies I use to keep my couples cool, comfortable, and looking effortlessly fabulous, even when the temps are climbing. From timeline tweaks to beauty tricks, here’s how to plan a summer wedding that feels like a celebration, not a heatwave.
Planning your dream summer wedding and need expert help? Contact us today to start turning your vision into reality!
Tent or Open-Air? What Works Best in the Heat
Let’s talk layout, because when you're planning a summer wedding, the choice between a tented reception and an open-air setup isn’t just about the vibe. It’s a tactical decision, especially when you're staring down 85 degrees and climbing.
Pros of a tent:
Provides guaranteed shade and some level of climate control
You can bring in portable AC units for real relief (skip the fans, they don’t do much once the sun’s blazing)
Protects from unexpected rain (because summer storms love to crash weddings)
Pro Tip: If you're going the tent route, I highly recommend a sailcloth tent. They're made from breathable fabric that reflects sunlight and keeps the interior cooler. These are not to be confused with clear-top tents, which basically turn into greenhouses the moment the sun’s out.
Pros of open-air:
Breezier if there’s natural airflow
Better for venues with views you don’t want to block
Great for more relaxed, garden-party vibes
The survival tip? If you’re leaning open-air, great! Just be strategic. Incorporate shade wherever you can: umbrellas, lounge areas with cover, or even light canopy installations.
Cold Towels + Parasols = Grateful Guests
Don’t underestimate the power of a thoughtful guest experience when the temperatures rise. One of my favorite summer wedding survival guide tips? Offer cooling stations stocked with chilled hand towels, handheld fans, or paper parasols.
These little luxuries go a long way in keeping guests comfortable (and your wedding photos will look so chic with guests holding white parasols under the sun).
Bonus: you can personalize them with your wedding logo or date for a stylish keepsake.
Beat the Heat with Sweat-Proof Beauty + Breezy Hairstyles
This one’s for my brides, grooms, and glam squads: summer weather calls for serious beauty strategy.
For makeup: Go for lightweight, long-wear formulas and prep with a mattifying primer. A setting spray is your best friend. If you’re hiring a makeup artist (which I highly recommend), make sure they’re experienced with hot weather weddings.
For hair: Loose buns, braids, and half-up styles work beautifully to keep hair off your neck while still looking romantic in photos. Avoid anything too stiff or structured, the humidity will win that battle every time.
Trust me, staying cool and camera ready is entirely possible with the right prep, and a little dry shampoo tucked in your clutch.
How to Keep Flowers from Wilting (and What to Choose Instead)
Summer weddings can be brutal on blooms, especially delicate ones like peonies, hydrangeas, or garden roses. If you’re planning an outdoor ceremony or reception, talk to your florist about which flowers can take the heat.
Some of the best summer florals:
Orchids
Calla lilies
Protea
Eucalyptus (for greenery that doesn’t droop)
Dried floral accents (they’re already “wilted,” so they can’t wilt more!)
And keep arrangements in shade or cool storage for as long as possible before setup. A seasoned florist, and a planner who’s watching the weather, can make sure your florals stay fresh until the final toast.
Cool Down with Icy Welcome Drinks + Frozen Late-Night Treats
What’s better than arriving at a wedding and being handed a chilled drink? (Answer: not much.) A signature cocktail served in a frosty glass or a refreshing mocktail station with cucumber mint water and lemonade is both functional and fabulous.
Late at night, keep the good vibes going with frozen treats: mini ice cream cones, popsicle carts, or even a vintage Italian ice stand. This is one of those wedding survival guide tips that guests will rave about, and thank you for.
Adjust Your Timeline to Avoid the Worst Heat
Here’s something not enough couples consider: timing is everything in the summer.
To keep everyone comfortable:
Plan your ceremony for later in the day (after 4pm is ideal)
Shift cocktail hour to a shadier spot
Build in buffer time for guests to cool off between events
If you’re taking portraits outside, schedule them for golden hour or early evening
Not only will your guests appreciate it, but your photos will benefit from that softer, more flattering light, and less squinting.
The Planner’s Hot-Weather Emergency Kit
Want to know what I carry to every hot weather wedding? Here’s a peek inside my summer survival stash:
Blotting papers + setting spray
Cooling face mists
Mini fans
Extra water bottles
Fashion tape (because sweat and strapless gowns can be a dangerous combo)
Sunscreen (for you, your guests, and yes, sometimes your vendors!)
A great planner is always thinking ten steps ahead, and that includes making sure your lipstick stays put and your groom doesn’t sweat through his shirt before the first look.
To learn more about what a wedding planner does behind the scenes, check out my recent blog!
Final Thoughts on Your Summer Wedding Survival Guide
A summer wedding is undeniably romantic, the glowing light, the garden blooms, the golden hour portraits, but it also takes a little strategy to pull off comfortably and beautifully.
With this wedding survival guide in hand, you’ll be ready for whatever the forecast throws your way. From smarter timelines to chilled cocktails and the right beauty prep, these tips are all about helping you enjoy every second of your day, without melting.
And of course, if you’re looking for someone to manage the logistics, the weather plans, and the cute parasols, I’d love to help. Let’s plan a wedding that keeps you cool, calm, and gorgeous from start to finish.
