25 Relaxed Summer Wedding Ideas
If you've been daydreaming about a casual, laid-back affair, then summer may be your ideal wedding season — the warmer weather naturally beckons a less buttoned-up attitude. Here, get 25 ideas for a carefree summer wedding.
By: Kristen Klein
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Attire -183022
Encourage your guests to kick off their shoes and relax.
Photo Credit: Limelight Photography
Attire
An added bonus of wearing sunglasses: your photographer can catch your groom's reaction in your shades.
Photo Credit: Limelight Photography
Bouquet
Skip the flowers in favor of fresh-from-the-garden greenery.
Photo Credit: Alicia Hite Photography
Attire
No shoes, no problem! Dress up your feet with foot jewelry.
Photo Credit: Britani Edwards Photography
Cake
Even for the most casual weddings, an ice cream cake simply isn't a practical choice. Get the look without the mess by adding a few "scoops" to the top of your traditional wedding cake.
Photo Credit: B Jones Photography
Reception Ideas
Yard games are popular for summer weddings, but skip the oversized Jenga and checkers in favor of something a little more active — like ping pong.
Photo Credit: Julia Franzosa Photography
Reception Ideas
Balloons make everything more fun. Add a bubble-like balloon installation over your escort card table.
Photo Credit: Julia Franzosa Photography
Reception Ideas
One downside of an entirely outdoor wedding is the bathroom issue. Make it a little more visually-appealing by decorating the doors with funny photos of you and your new spouse as children.
Photo Credit: Rob Sigler Photography
Food & Drinks
Popsicles are a classic summer treat, and these creamy sorbet bars are perfect for your wedding.
Photo Credit: Mermaid Lake Photography
Food & Drinks
Mini hot dogs practically look gourmet with the right toppings.
Photo Credit: Mermaid Lake Photography
Food & Drinks
What's even better than popsicles? Spiked popsicles.
Photo Credit: Mermaid Lake Photography
Photo Inspiration
Don't forget the photo props to keep everyone smiling through the heat! Your guests will have so much with their beach balls, sunglasses, and funny signs that they'll almost forget how hot it is outside.
Photo Credit: Playa Weddings
Reception Ideas
Geometric tropical fruit makes for fun and unexpected décor.
Photo Credit: Playa Weddings
Transportation
Is there anything better than riding in a convertible on a hot summer day? Travel from your ceremony to your reception in a parade of vintage cars with the tops down.
Photo Credit: Alessandro Mari Photography
Ceremony Ideas
Set the tone for a fun wedding by having your bridal party dance down the aisle.
Photo Credit: Playa Weddings
Ceremony Idea
Who says confetti is just for after you've exchanged vows? Make a memorable entrance by tossing confetti as you walk down the aisle.
Photo Credit: Playa Weddings
Ceremony Ideas
Ask your guests to toss beach balls during your ceremony recessional.
Photo Credit: Playa Weddings
Food & Drinks
When you're a DIY bride, stocking the bar can be a major source of stress — how much do you need? What's the right mix? Skip the headache and stick to bottles; simply fill stock tanks with various beers and wine coolers that'll appeal to all of your adult guests.
Photo Credit: Elle Lily Photography & Videography
Photo Inspiration
Encourage your guests to act as photographers by setting up a selfie station.
Photo Credit: Elle Lily Photography & Videography
Reception Ideas
Summer camp vibes! Skip the tables and chairs, and dine under the trees on picnic blankets instead.
Photo Credit: Shannon Stent Images
Ceremony Ideas
Head to your local park and exchange vows inside a gazebo for an easy, earthy ceremony you'll never forget.
Photo Credit: A Guy + A Girl Photography
Reception Ideas
Save on decorations by hosting your wedding inside a greenhouse.
Photo Credit: A Guy + A Girl Photography
Reception Ideas
Give the kids a quiet place of their own to escape during the reception.
Photo Credit: Elle Lily Photography & Videography
Photo Inspiration
Protect yourselves from the sun and score some adorable photos with flower-inspired umbrellas.
Photo Credit: A Guy + A Girl Photography
