Soaking Up the Sun: Ideas for Your Summertime SoCal Wedding
Los Angeles, and southern California at large, has some of the most beautiful wedding venues in the world. No matter your style, you can find a venue that matches your tastes. The endless sunshine, especially in summer, offers a unique canvas for creating a magical celebration. But planning a summer wedding in SoCal comes with some unique challenges. Here are some tips from our experience as Los Angeles wedding planners for planning a perfect summer wedding!
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Start with the venue!
Beach Bliss: Typically the California coastline boasts cooler weather than inland. So even in summer an outdoor wedding can be comfortable. When planning your wedding by the water in , opt for a light, airy feel with white chairs and pops of color in the florals.
DO: Choose a venue in a place Malibu, Palos Verdes, or Santa Barbara where the temperature is mild in the summer
DON’T: Plan an outdoor wedding during the summer in San Fernando Valley, where the temperatures hit triple digits during the summer months.
Vineyard Charm: Did you know that Los Angeles has a surprising number of wineries? These venues offer a sophisticated yet relaxed ambiance, perfect for an afternoon ceremony followed by an alfresco reception under the twinkling stars.
DO: Consider a vineyard style venue like Cielo Farms, located in Malibu!
DON’T: Forget about Santa Barbara! The area boasts many gorgeous vineyard style venues like Zaca Mesa Winery in Los Olivos, CA.
Rooftop Romance: A wedding downtown might suit your tastes! An early evening ceremony on a venue’s panoramic rooftop at a venue can capture the sunset with a touch of urban chic. Afterwards, your guests can head indoors for a sleek modern reception.
DO: Opt for a ceremony start date after 5pm - when the sun’s rays have dimmed a bit.
DON’T: Forget ambient lighting! String lights always have a magical feel.
PRO-TIP: Ask your DJ if they provide mood lighting!
Some of our decor picks for a beach wedding:
Working with the Elements
Dress for comfort: Choose light and airy fabrics over heavier ones.
DO: Choose clothes made of plant fabrics, like cotton or linen that breathe well
DON’T: Wear heavy, non-breathable fabrics like satin or velvet at an outdoor summer wedding
Floral Fantasy: Choose flowers that are heat-resistant, or dried even flowers! Succulents are always a quirky touch. Don't be afraid to get creative with centerpieces and floral arrangements.
DO: Choose flowers like lavender, geraniums, and zinnias, that tolerate heat well
DON’T: Leave flowers like hydrangeas, roses, or anemones out in the heat, as they will quickly wilt!
Beat the Heat: While the sun is a welcome guest, be mindful of your guests' comfort. Provide shaded areas, offer fans or parasols, and have cooling beverages readily available before and throughout the ceremony and reception.
DO: Have a refreshment station available to guests pre-ceremony
DON’T: Have your guests sitting in direct sun during the ceremony!
Have a Plan B: Consider an alternative indoor location for your ceremony should it be too hot on your wedding day. You may also reserve large umbrellas or tents from a rental company. Be sure to check the weather every day up until your wedding day! Make a plan with your planner/coordinator in advance in case of inclement weather.
DO: Have some indoor or shaded spaces for guests at an outdoor wedding
DON’T: Forget that weather forecasts are just that - forecasts! Anything can happen weather-wise, so be prepared!
Culinary Delights
Light and Fresh Fare: A hot, heavy meal might not be the most satisfying under the summer sun. Choose lighter dishes like fresh seafood, seasonal salads, and chilled soups.
California Cuisine: Embrace the local food scene! Offer a menu that reflects SoCal’s diverse culinary landscape, with options like gourmet tacos, fresh sushi platters, or wood-fired pizzas. A food truck is always a fun catering option
Sweet Summer Treats: Who doesn't love a cold dessert on a hot day? Set up a gelato stand or have a beautifully-decorated cake with lighter flavors like lemon or berries.
Time to Party:
Live Music Under the Stars: Hire a local band to create a lively atmosphere. Choose music that reflects your taste and gets your guests moving on the dance floor. Live music doesn’t have to be at the reception - a soloist pre-ceremony or during cocktail hour is great as well.
Photo Booth Fun: Provide a photo booth with fun props for guests to capture memories of your special day.
Backyard Games: Set up some fun lawn games like cornhole or giant Jenga to keep guests entertained during cocktail hour or breaks between dancing.
PRO-TIP: These games can usually be rented through a rental company, or purchased, if you are looking to have at-home entertainment in the future that doubles as a wedding memento
Don't forget the little details:
Sun Protection: Offer sunscreen or parasols as a thoughtful touch for your guests to protect themselves from the Angeleno sun.
Bug Spray: Warm evenings can bring mosquitos. Having bug spray on hand ensures your guests remain comfortable throughout the celebration. Citronella candles are also a way to keep bugs at bay.
Useful favors: Water bottles with custom labels, plastic sunglasses, and hand fans are cute guest favors that double as useful tool for staying cool during the wedding.
