With the frequency of extreme heat events on the rise in the UK, planning a summer wedding now requires some extra thought and preparation. For those of you planning your big day, it’s important to know what constitutes extreme heat in the UK. Generally, anything above 30°C (86°F) is considered quite hot, with temperatures reaching 35°C (95°F) or higher being particularly extreme. Such heat can lead to unpleasant symptoms like heat exhaustion and dehydration, which include excessive sweating, dizziness, headaches, and nausea—definitely not something you want overshadowing your special day.

Marquee Weddings in Hot Weather

Marquee weddings are beautiful and versatile, offering a blank canvas to design your dream day. However, they can quickly become stifling under the summer sun. Structural Considerations First, make sure your marquee is made from breathable materials. Light-colored fabrics that reflect sunlight can help keep the interior cooler. One summer wedding I shot featured a marquee with a white exterior and light linen interior. It created a cool, airy environment, even when temperatures soared outside. Ventilation and Cooling Fans and portable air conditioning units can be lifesavers. During one July wedding, the couple rented large fans and placed them strategically around the marquee. The breeze they generated was a hit with everyone, making the heat much more bearable. Open sides or ventilation flaps can also promote airflow, helping to keep the interior comfortable.

Considerations for Guests on a Hot Wedding Day

Keeping your guests comfortable is crucial for a memorable wedding day. Here are some top tips:

Install Extra Shade

Providing ample shade is essential. Consider tents, umbrellas, or even using natural shade from trees. At one wedding, the couple set up several large, stylish umbrellas around the outdoor seating areas. Guests could escape the direct sun whenever they needed a break.

Hydration

Ensuring a steady supply of water is vital. Creative hydration stations with infused water, iced teas, and other cool drinks can be both functional and decorative. At a particularly hot wedding last summer, the couple had a hydration station with glass dispensers filled with water infused with fruits and herbs. It was not only refreshing but also added a beautiful touch to the decor.

Lotions and Potions

Provide plenty of sunscreen and insect repellent for your guests. Place baskets with travel-sized bottles around the venue and encourage everyone to apply regularly. At one outdoor wedding, the couple had a charming “sunscreen and bug spray” station, complete with a sign that read, “Don’t let bugs or burns ruin your fun!”

Handheld Fans

Distributing handheld fans to guests can be a thoughtful touch. These can be battery-operated or manual, and you can even personalize them to match your wedding theme. One couple I worked with handed out fans with their names and wedding date printed on them, which also served as cute keepsakes.

Embrace the Heat

Encouraging a relaxed dress code can make a big difference. Light, breathable fabrics are key. Think linen suits for the gents and airy dresses for the ladies. At a beach wedding, the groom and groomsmen wore linen trousers and shirts, while the bridesmaids had light, flowy dresses. It kept everyone cool and comfortable.

Timings

Consider scheduling the ceremony and key events during cooler parts of the day, such as the early morning or late afternoon. Evening ceremonies can also be magical. One couple opted for a twilight ceremony, and the cooler temperature combined with the soft lighting created an incredibly romantic atmosphere.

Feet

Don’t forget about footwear. Providing comfortable options like flip-flops or sandals can be a relief for guests during outdoor portions of the event. At one garden wedding, a basket of flip-flops with a sign saying, “Dancing shoes!” was placed near the dance floor, much to the delight of the guests.

Bride in Sunglasses

Sunglasses can be a practical and stylish accessory for the bride. Not only do they protect your eyes and makeup from the sun, but they can also add a chic element to your bridal look. One bride I photographed rocked a pair of elegant, vintage-style sunglasses during the outdoor portions of her wedding. They looked fantastic in photos and kept her comfortable throughout the day.

Considerations for Wedding Suppliers on a Hot Wedding Day

Your suppliers also need to be considered when dealing with extreme heat.

Cakes

Keeping cakes cool and intact in high temperatures can be challenging. Opt for heat-resistant decorations and frostings, and make sure the cake is kept in a cool place until it’s time to cut it. One wedding I photographed had a beautiful buttercream cake that was stored in a refrigerated display until the last moment, ensuring it looked perfect for the photos and the guests.

Drinks

Offer a variety of cold beverages, and use insulated containers and ice to maintain their temperatures. A wedding I attended featured a bar with pre-chilled cocktails, beer, and non-alcoholic options, all served from coolers packed with ice. It was a refreshing hit among the guests.

Chilling Facilities

Adequate refrigeration for food and drinks is essential. Renting additional cooling equipment can be a good investment. One couple rented a mobile fridge to store all the perishable items, which was a game-changer in keeping everything fresh and safe.

Flowers

Select heat-resistant flower varieties and keep them fresh and hydrated. Florists can advise on the best choices for hot weather. At a particularly hot wedding, the florist used succulents and hardy blooms that held up beautifully throughout the day.

Food

Choose heat-friendly menu items that won’t spoil or wilt in the heat. Discuss food safety measures with your caterer. One summer wedding featured a menu of chilled dishes and BBQ items that were both delicious and practical for the weather.

Photos

Plan photo sessions around the heat. Early morning or late afternoon light is not only cooler but also more flattering. I once scheduled a photo shoot at dawn for a couple, and the results were stunning—not to mention the temperature was much more manageable.

Musicians

Ensure musicians have shaded, cool performance areas and provide them with hydration and breaks. At one wedding, the couple had a shaded stage with fans for the band, along with a steady supply of cold drinks. This kept the performers comfortable and energetic throughout the event.

Conclusion

Recapping, the key to handling an extremely hot wedding day lies in preparation and flexibility. From providing shade and hydration for guests to planning heat-friendly details with your suppliers, every little consideration can make a significant difference. Embrace the unique experience of a hot wedding day, stay positive, and enjoy every memorable moment. After all, it’s these unique touches that will make your wedding day truly unforgettable.

Final Note

Remember, the most important thing is to stay adaptable and keep a positive attitude. Despite the heat, your wedding day will be full of love and joy. Embrace the warmth, and make the best of this special occasion.

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