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.
