Summer is just around the corner with summer wedding season in full effect! And, chances are living in Las Vegas all or part of your summer wedding will take place outdoors. Although having an alfresco wedding is indeed a picturesque and memorable way to say your “I dos,” Mother Nature may have other thoughts. So, to help ensure your summer wedding is a success, we at Bridal Spectacular have a few tips to keep in mind!
Choose an Indoor-Outdoor Location
When planning a summer in Las Vegas wedding, be sure to find a venue that provides both outdoor and indoor areas, such as a ballroom that includes an outdoor balcony. This way your guests can choose whether or not they want to be in the outdoor elements or inside in the air-conditioned building.
Timing
Summer in Las Vegas is hot, hot, hot! If you want a summer wedding, try to set your date for May or September. Also, be sure to plan your start time when the sun is not at its strongest, as you and you hubby-to-be will be melting and overheated guests won’t be in much of a party mood. Aim to have your ceremony begin in the late afternoon or early evening. An ideal situation is to schedule dinner for sunset (provided the sun isn’t setting too late on your date) and then work the rest of the wedding around that timing.
Plan For Cool Attire
As a bride, you want to feel comfortable and confident on your big day — not sweltering and sticky! For your wedding dress, try to choose a light fabric that breathes, such as silk. Another option is to opt for a shorter skirt as your bridal gown. However, if it’s your dream to walk down the aisle in a traditional ball gown, then wear it during the ceremony and then change into a lighter dress for the reception. For your groom, he can look debonair in a linen suit and sandals or khakis and a button-down for a more causal wedding.
Keep Your Guests Cool
When you send out your save-the-dates and wedding invitations, be sure to advise your guests that you are having an outdoor wedding so they can plan accordingly. Then, make sure you provide amenities to keep your guests cool and comfortable. You can set up hydration stations around the ceremony site with ice-cold bottled water, lemonade and/or iced tea (and don’t forget to include refreshments for your vendors). Also, consider providing sunscreen, sunglasses as your wedding favor, mini umbrellas for the ceremony, and even rent electric fans for your guests.
Have a Backup Plan
Vegas weather can be pretty unpredictable at times, so be sure to have a contingency plan in case bad weather arises. Ask your venue if they have a last-minute indoor ceremony option available, or at the very least, rent a tent to protect guests from rain or excess heat.
Choose a Wedding Menu That’s Well-Suited for the Outdoors
When selecting your caterer, make sure that they are experienced with catering for an outdoor wedding. Then, be certain they are providing menu items that are light and will keep well outdoors in the sun and heat. Try to avoid having too many hot dishes as well as mayonnaise-based salads or dishes, which must be served cold. A great option is to follow the farm-to-table trend and choose a seasonal menu that includes grilled entrees and fresh produce, such as gazpacho shooters and grilled fruit skewers for appetizers, fresh salads, fruit pies or tarts in lieu of cake, and frozen cocktails for your signature drink.
Plan for Wind & Bugs
Let’s face it, Las Vegas is windy! Be sure to inform your hairstylist that you’ll be having an outdoor wedding so they can plan a style that can hold up in the wind. Also, be mindful with your wedding décor — you don’t want those beautiful paper lanterns or chiffon linens flying away.
And lastly, although we don’t have an excessive bug problem in Las Vegas, also consider setting up a few citronella tiki torches or candles and keep a few bottles of insect repellent on hand just in case.
If you keep these tips mind, your summer wedding will go off without a hitch! For more wedding planning tips and information please visit http://www.bridalspectacular.com or follow us on Facebook, twitter and Pinterest.
And, be sure to save-the-date to attend our Autumn Bridal Show August 15 and 16 at Cashman Center where you will be able to gain even more wedding ideas and inspiration! Receive $5 off admission when you buy tickets online! Click here and enter promo code: BRIDEBLOG14
