Have you always wanted to walk down the aisle in the springtime? The season is very popular for weddings because of the typical warm weather, sunny skies and flowers blooming. But Mother Nature can sometimes be finicky and uncooperative—leaving bridal couples anxious. There’s no need to stress out about the weather, though. Here are some tips for making your spring wedding dreams come true.
Flowers
Flowers are a centerpiece of wedding décor, appearing in bouquets, as decorations at the ceremony locale and as table arrangements at the reception. If you are dreaming of cherry blossoms, snowdrops and crocuses, early spring would be the perfect time for you to get married. Love the look of peonies and sweet peas? Plan a late spring affair and they’ll be in bloom just in time for your special day. They come in an array of different colors, too!
Uninvited Guests—Bugs!
If you are planning an outside ceremony or reception, you should think about uninvited guests—bugs. Check if your venue or caterer will treat the lawn prior to your wedding day to keep those pesky pests at bay. Look for bug sprays that come in pleasant fragrances. Citronella candles come in a variety of styles and color, so they can easily fit in with your décor. Including a bug spray in your toiletry baskets and in other common areas is a nice touch.
Food
Your menu should consist of lighter fare such as grilled fish, chicken, seasonal vegetables and berries and other fruits in salads. Stay away from cheeses and spreads if you will be eating outside and the temperature will be rising. A thoughtful dessert includes a shaved ice station with custom flavors—and it’s interactive, too! When designing your cake, remember that fondant holds up better to heat than lighter frosting on cakes.
Weather
If you are planning an outdoor wedding, definitely think beyond just renting a tent and make sure you have a “Plan B.” If there is a threat of rain, it can be fun to color coordinate umbrellas for the bridal party. Not only will it keep them dry, but it can make a bold statement in photos. In addition to having a Plan B for the ceremony and reception, make sure you also have a backup plan for your photos.
If it’s going to be a hot day, provide chair cushions to prevent your guests from sticking to hot seats or the shock of sitting on a seat that has been out in the hot sun. When deciding on what time to hold your wedding, remember that the sun is highest in the sky and the hottest from 12–3 p.m. Save yourself and your guests from the harsh hot sun and take advantage of the beautiful backdrop of a ceremony during the golden hour, just before the sun meets the horizon.
Remember, too, that alcohol plus sunshine equals sunburn and dehydration. Provide sunscreen in your toiletry baskets and ensure your guests stay hydrated. Make sure water is readily available and serve water-rich snacks like cucumber and melon. Keep beverages light by serving chilled white or rosé wine and a bright, refreshing signature cocktail like a mojito or a spiked lemonade.
Clothing
Avoid your maids and men looking like a hot mess—opt for lightweight fabrics when shopping for your bridal party and consider shorter styles. Consider a more casual dress code for guests to keep them cool and comfortable. Some ways to say it on the invite include cocktail chic, dressy casual, garden attire and smart casual.
Spiky high heels might look pretty, but they don’t mix well with some terrain. Opt for flats or wedges, or use heel protectors. Hairstyles that work well for warmer weather include updos and controlled looks. Flowing curls and heat and humidity do not mix well.
Favor Ideas
You can tie the season into your favors with ideas like sunglasses, parasols, fans, sunscreen, scented bug spray or homemade essential oil natural bug repellants such as citronella, lemon eucalyptus, peppermint, lemon, eucalyptus, catnip, basil, clove, thyme, lemongrass, geranium and lavender.
Want to take all the stress out of planning your springtime wedding? Hire a professional to take some of the pressure off. Many event venues have staff on-hand who can guide you effortlessly through the planning process and be available during the event to ensure every part of your party flows perfectly.
Ready to start planning? Schedule a consultation with one of our event managers today!
Robert Ryan Catering and Design plans and executes over 400 events each year, boasts a five-star rating on WeddingWire and has received WeddingWire’s Couple’s Choice/Bride’s Choice Award seven years in a row. Learn more about Robert Ryan Catering & Design and tour our venues. Subscribe to our e-newsletter for exclusive offers, up-to-date news and recipes from our executive chef.
