Wedding Ideas by Season

Summer Fête

Bring on the heat. Bring on the fun. Guests to this Wisconsin wedding arrived at a small, rural dairy farm that had been transformed into a romantic zen playground. “We loved our bride’s relaxed, boho vibe and used it to inspire the decor and other planning details,” says Alliey Weichelt, lead event planner/CEO of Sash&Bow in Green Bay, WI. The ceremony and reception were both held in the couple’s backyard, and the 250-person guest list included some 70 children. High on the planning priority list was romantic decor with a modern edge and offering plenty of entertaining activities for all ages. Whimsical dream catchers hung from crystal chandeliers. Tables were adorned with patterned linens and an abundance of loosely arranged colorful blooms. When guests needed a respite from the 20-piece swing band, the caricature artist or the bounce houses, they could meander over to the meditation tent. More intimate mingling took place in the lounge space with comfy settees and Moroccan-inspired ottomans. On the menu, local, seasonal favors were the stars — plump berries, heirloom tomatoes, grilled asparagus and fresh mint. A favored water and lemonade station kept party-goers well hydrated. And for dessert, a scrumptious naked cake looked almost too good to eat. “I think guests were amazed at the space,” says Weichelt. “They were expecting a backyard wedding, not a party they didn’t want to leave!” Weichelt’s top tip for a summer wedding: “Don’t feel you have to stick to casual and carefree details and décor to reflect the season. Adding one or two glamorous elements (like crystal chandeliers or chic textiles) lends a layer of sophistication and can make the day feel more special. 

Fresh petals and just-picked-blooms filled the ceremony space:

Wildflowers greeted guests to this rural party:

A modern lounge area:

Hanging lanterns set a romantic mood in the dining tent:

The floral design by Buds ‘n Bloom Design studio featured a mix of bright hues and blush tones:

Fresh mint and berries made their way to the table in unique ways:

A summery naked cake by the Runaway spoon:

Photo Credit: Laurie Marie Photography