Let’s be real—late spring or even summer weddings in the South are gorgeous, but they’re also a little bit… sweaty. Whether you’re getting married in a botanical garden, your backyard, or a lakeside lodge with more mosquitoes than guests, there’s one thing we all have to deal with: the heat.
But that doesn’t mean you have to suffer through your wedding day. With a few smart choices (and someone like me in your corner), you can stay cool, comfy, and photo-ready—even in July.
Let’s get into it.
Hydration > Everything
This feels obvious, and yet: so many people forget to drink water on their wedding day. You’re buzzing with nerves, everyone’s handing you champagne, and suddenly it’s 3pm and you haven’t had a single sip of water. Not on my watch.
I will gently remind you to hydrate. It makes a huge difference in how you feel, how you look, and whether or not you’re going to start seeing stars during photos. (Please don’t.)
Lighten Up—Literally
Now is not the time for five layers of satin and a three-piece wool suit. Breathable fabrics like cotton, linen, or light crepe are your best friends. If you’re working with a stylist or tailor, let them know staying cool is a priority—they can recommend linings and cuts that won’t leave you soaked by the ceremony.
And for those of you planning an outfit change? Consider swapping into something light and breezy after the formalities. Your body will thank you, and we’ll get a whole new round of fun photos.
Shade, Fans, and Schedule Tweaks (The Non-DIY Kind)
I know, I know—this post said no DIY hand fans. And I stand by that. You don’t need one more thing to glue together at midnight the week of your wedding. Instead, let’s work smarter.
- Find the shade. We can tweak the ceremony spot or time of day to keep everyone out of the worst of the sun.
- Shift the schedule. Morning ceremonies or even post-sunset vows mean cooler temps. Summer in Georgia specifically means the hottest part of the day is around 5pm, but you have cooler time between then and sunset to say your vows and have your ceremony.
- Opt for indoor locations. Getting ready or saying your vows in air-conditioned spaces makes everything easier.
A Wedding Day Emergency Kit (The Summer Edit)
- Cooling towels
- Blotting papers + oil control powder
- Mini fan
- Extra water & electrolyte packets
- Straws for sipping with lipstick
- Safety pins, fashion tape, and stain wipes
- Bug spray + sunscreen
- Deodorant
Basically, if you or your wedding party needs to de-sweat, touch up, cool down, or rehydrate, I’ve got you. This isn’t my first steamy wedding rodeo.
You Deserve to Feel Good in Every Frame
At the end of the day, the best summer wedding survival tip is this: build your timeline and environment around comfort. You’ll enjoy the day more, look better in your photos, and remember it as a celebration—not a sweaty endurance challenge.
I’m here to help make that happen. From planning the most flattering light to adjusting on the fly when your cousin passes out in the sun (true story), I’ll be your calm, cool sidekick.
Planning a summer wedding? Let’s talk about how to make it magic and manageable. Reach out here and let’s get you a day that feels like joy—not heatstroke.
Want a wedding day that isn’t all about photos but still captures the moments that matter? Grab this free guide.
