|
If you are working within a strict budget but want the
best Phoenix has to offer, planning an “off-season” wedding
may be a pretty savvy choice to make. Many of the
area’s finest resorts and reception facilities have greater
availability from June through August and offer fabulous
summer price cuts. Area professionals estimate
savings of as much as several thousand dollars, depending
on the size of your wedding. The savings multiply if
you book on a Sunday.
When planning a summer wedding, ask about
supplementary special rates and incentives as well. Although food and labor costs remain fixed, you may
get incredible deals on room rates for the bridal party
and out-of-town guests. A bridal consultant should
have the inside track on these sorts of deals, or be able
to negotiate for them on your behalf.
Plan an evening affair A daytime wedding
may appeal to the tradition-minded but how about
creating a night to remember? Not only will you escape
the heat and glare of the midday sun, but a ceremony
after dark is a great opportunity to integrate special
lighting for a romantic glow. This neat trick is low cost and you can select the light most
flattering to you and your groom.
Imbibe in moderation
Alcohol dehydrates the body and its
effects are felt more in the heat. If
you offer drinks, keep them low in
alcohol content. Consider serving
nonalcoholic drinks that are both
creative and rejuvenating: a tart
lemonade, brisk ice tea, or water
spiked with citrus slices. Offer mint
ice tea to soothe nervous stomachs or
lavender tea to calm rambunctious
relatives.
Many of the area’s finest
resorts and eception
facilities have greater availability
from June through
August and offer fabulous
summer price cuts.
Dress the part Before there
was air conditioning, denizens of
hot climes wore linen or seersucker.
Follow this tradition by lightening
up on the dress code a bit. Pick a
dress that’s cool and comfortable—
strapless gowns and slip dresses
made from light fabrics can be
wise choices. For the groom and his
attendants, consider light-colored
suits. Suggest the guys stay cool by
putting on the tuxedos or suits just before the ceremony instead
of hours ahead.
Provide lighter fare People tend to eat less when it’s hot,
so serve light and refreshing treats. Consider including chicken,
pork and cold salads. Brighten up the menu with tropical fruit, which can be served fresh, in sorbets
or even as a glaze for the main dish.
Whatever you choose, ask your caterer
for a pre-taste run.
If you can’t beat the heat, why
not make a party out of it? Having a
themed reception, like a south-of-theborder
fiesta or a tropical luau, will
make your affair fun for all.
Select stalwart flowers
Ask your florist about flowers
that won’t wilt quickly. Tulips and
gardenias are particularly susceptible
to heat stress, while roses are hardier.
If your heart is set on using classical
flowers, avoid white blossoms, which
lose their appeal as they lose their
moisture.
Photograph early or late
You, your wedding party and your
flowers will all wilt in the heat, so
consider taking photos—indoors or
outdoors—when the sun is rising
or setting. If it’s an unbearably hot
day, ask your photographer for a sun
check. And don’t try to take photos in the direct glare of the
sun—a squinting bride and groom do not a pretty wedding photo
make.
By incorporating some of these breezy ideas, having a summer
wedding may turn out to be a wise decision and a lot of fun.
Photography courtesy of:
BQ Photography
|
