Whether you’re getting married at peak summertime or at the end of September, summer weddings offer you many opportunities to embrace the beauty of nature. From backyard weddings to rooftop receptions to a day on the beach, there are many ways you can take advantage of the sunny forecast and the ambiance of summer joy.
It’s easy to see why so many couples wed during summer. You don’t have to do much to enhance your wedding, especially if you’re incorporating natural elements into your wedding decor. However, if you’re one of those couples that want to go above and beyond for your guests, consider the following five DIY ideas to elevate your summer reception.
With these ideas, you and your partner can explore your creativity and turn your reception from ordinary to unforgettable.
Keep Cool With DIY Fan Menus
If you have an outdoor wedding reception, you should be cautious of the weather and your guests’ heat tolerance. While we love the summer sun, the cool summer breeze can be scarce. Sitting in dead, dry heat isn’t fun, and you don’t want your guests to feel miserable on your big day. Keep your friends and family cool by making your menu into a fan.
Take your paper goods to the next level and give them a dual purpose. Transforming your menu into a handheld fan will make your wedding unforgettable and give your guests something to remember you by! You can DIY these fans with different watercolor patterns, calligraphy, and other decorative details to tie them in with your theme.
Create Seasonal Welcome Bags
Welcome your family and friends to your wedding reception with a bag full of seasonal goodies. Depending on the size of your guest list, you can give each guest a personalized bag with items you think they would appreciate. However, if you have a larger guest list, giving guests generalized goodies is just as special! Add anything from candy to seasonal preservatives to cocktail or mocktail mixers to make your guests feel special.
If you’re having your reception at the beach, you can add all the essentials like sweet and savory goodies, sunscreen, bug repellent, and customized sunglasses. It’s key to make these bags travel friendly for the guests that fly in.
Add a Flower Wall for Photos
Another great DIY idea to elevate your summer wedding is to create a flower wall for photo opportunities. Your guests will take a million pictures at the reception, so why not make the ultimate photo area?
If you have room in your budget, you can create a beautiful floral wall adorned with string lights, a fun slogan LED light, or paper lanterns. Add a cute decorative chair or stool for ornamental value. Whether you create this wall with faux or real florals, it’s a charming element to add to your reception.
Bring the Local Aesthetics to the Party
If you’re planning a destination wedding in an area with a tropical climate, you should incorporate natural aesthetics into your decorations. Your guests will be blown away by the location of your wedding and appreciate the local florals, colors, and ambiance perfectly incorporated into your reception. Whether your centerpieces are native flowers decorating the space with color or you have a special performance from a local band, your wedding guests will thoroughly appreciate the experience.
Treat Your Guests With Keepsake Place Cards
Giving your guests the best experience for joining you and your partner on your wedding day is key. Who doesn’t love a functional and memorable gift? Gifting your friends and family practical keepsakes is a great way to show appreciation for everything they’ve done in your lifetime. Creating place cards that can work as coasters is the ultimate way to elevate your reception.
Summer weddings are always a blast. The carefree ambiance and weather take the party to the next level, making for an unforgettable night of partying and bonding with family. While we’re sure they will enjoy your reception no matter what, we hope our ideas will elevate your night.
