Summer weddings can be so beautiful, but that doesn’t mean they don’t come with their own sunny set of baggage. From frizzy hair to melting makeup – the heat and humidity can lead to all sorts of inconveniences that no bride or guest wants to run into! Lucky for you, we came up with a list of the top 12 most useful tips in order to prepare and enjoy every minute of a hot summer wedding!

1. Up-Do Your Hair

Instead of long and heavy locks, try pinning back your hair in a romantic up-do! Opting for an up-do will prevent it from turning into a frizzy mess (a la Monica’s hair in the “Friends” episode of her honeymoon in Barbados).

Greer Gatuso Photography

2. Lighten Up!

Avoid dressing your bridesmaids in dark clothing stay cool and in-season with a dress in a pale or pastel shade.

White Ivory Photography

Willow and Pearl

3. Create A Shady Oasis

Whether the sun is blazing or there’s a chance of rain, having a tent at your wedding is sure to provide additional comfort for your guests.

Kelly Boyd Photography

4. Minimal Makeup

When it comes to makeup on a hot summer day – less is more! Avoid makeup-melting mishaps and look your best all night long by wearing a lighter face of makeup. Plus, you’ll look naturally beautiful!

Richelle Dante Photography

5. Relief Station

At any outdoor event, you should always provide guests with sunblock and bug spray. For extra protection, brides and grooms should wear SPF lip balm to keep those lips kissable! Also, be sure to steer clear of fruity perfumes and lotions so pesky mosquitoes don’t ruin your fabulous night.

Laura Novak Photography

6. Wedges For The Win

Considering summer weddings are usually outdoors, wear wedges instead! No bride wants her heels sinking into the grass. Just think, WWCBD? (What Would Carrie Bradshaw Do?)

Nadia Hung Photography

7. Stay Hydrated

This saying is important everyday and your wedding day is no different! Stay excited and stay hydrated throughout the day by drinking lots of water. A good rule of thumb is at least one glass in between every glass of wine or cocktail.

Colin Cowie Lifestyle

8. Mini Beats Maxi

Summer brides and bridesmaids alike will appreciate this tip! Consider a short wedding dress or light and airy bridesmaid dress, as opposed to the traditional, long versions. Layers of tulle and satin will feel heavy and sticky. A mini dress will keep you cool and moving on the dance floor!

Justin Alexander

9. Sunglass Central

Don’t ruin your wedding day by squinting in every photo! Shade yourself from the bright sun and pack a pair of sunglasses that go with your outfit or matching pairs for you and your bridesmaids.

Blue Rose Photography

10. Your Biggest Fan!

Offer each guest a fan on his or her chair if your ceremony is outside. Brides should fit a compact personal fan in their purse to use when you’re in desperate need of a breeze.

Sean Money and Elizabeth Fay

11. Beat The Heat

Setting spray, face blotting sheets, and matte foundation are the best makeup tools to use for a summer wedding. Toss a packet of oil absorbing paper in your purse to blot your face so you don’t shine brighter than the sun!

12. Keep The Bouquet Fresh

To ensure your blooms make it down the aisle, keep your bouquet in a cool room or refrigerator until right before the ceremony. Afterwards, spritz with water to keep the blooms hydrated.

Brittany Lauren Photography