You have envisioned a paradisiacal summer wedding. Great weather, gorgeous blue skies, and rays of sunshine reflecting the shimmering lake waters. But, what you have not considered are your guests sizzling in the summer heat, and dreading every second of your ever-so-perfect wedding.
Suhaag Magazine caught up with Neha Chopra in her office, a Toronto based wedding planner and founder of South Asian Wedding Centre. Chopra, who until date has coordinated 150 weddings, explained that outdoor weddings can look great but they can serve as a challenge for guests if not planned properly. Chopra shared some of her secrets and tips to ensure a successful outdoor summer wedding, so guests don’t dread the sun and the outdoor summer sauna wedding!
Choose an indoor and outdoor location: Dual functionality is ideal when considering your venue location. Guests can cherish the picturesque scenic backdrops of a lush golf course, whimsical gardens, or the ocean while deciding if they want to enjoy the outdoor elements, or relax in the air conditioned venue. But, if nothing less than al fresco soiree will suffice. Then, Chopra explains, that little details make all the difference.
Keep your guests hydrated: Allocate hydration stations throughout your wedding. Ice water with sliced citrus or seasonal fruits, is sure to do the trick. Chopra says, “Make sure that water is easily accessible to guests. Water can be placed along the route of a long baraat, or certain locations during religious ceremonies by your wedding planner.”
Serve a chilled signature beverage before ceremony begins: What more perfect way to welcome the guests than your own unique signature drink? An ice fountain plays a cooling effect on the eyes. “It can be customized to match your theme and colours. To personalize a drink try combining the names of the bride and groom. For example, if the bride’s name is Shivani and the groom’s name is Devesh. The drink can be named Divani” recommends Chopra.
Provide shade: This can be accomplished shade via a canopy or umbrellas. Chopra suggests parasols, which can be customized to use for décor while sheltering guests from the rays.
Cooling accessories: Paper fans with intricate details to match your theme, or personalized wedding programs as fans are a great way to welcome guests. According to Chopra, “A welcome table with fans is always a hit for hot summer days.”
Cold snacks: Chopra recommends, “Kulfi, mangoo lassi, paan, and ice-cream stations. Aside from desserts, try lighter snacks. For a more exotic and beachy effect, oysters are great.”
Outdoor essentials: Sunscreen, bug repellents, and citronella candles are necessities for outdoors celebrations. “Not only for the wedding day, but a welcome bag is a great idea for out of town guests, loaded with such essentials” says Chopra. Your guests should be reminiscing in the fond memories of your wedding day, and not regretting the mosquito magnet frenzy.
These great tips will not only echo the ambiance of your event, but your guests will thank you for it!
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This post was orginally published on Suhaag.com
❤ The National Bridal Show Team