Tips for Staying Cool at Your Summer Victoria Wedding
Introduction
Planning a summer wedding in Victoria, BC, can be both exciting and challenging. Summer is a popular time for weddings due to the abundant sunshine, blooming flowers, warm weather, and the availability of friends and family who have vacation time. However, the summer heat can pose specific challenges. As a Victoria, BC photographer, I’ve shot weddings in temperatures as high as 42 degrees Celsius, so I understand the importance of keeping everyone cool and comfortable. Here are some essential tips to avoid heat exhaustion on your wedding day and ensure your guests stay refreshed.
Stay Hydrated
Staying hydrated is crucial on your wedding day. Amidst the excitement and commotion, it’s easy to forget to drink enough water. Ensure you have someone, like a member of the wedding party, designated to manage drinks and snacks during portraits. Great snack options include bananas, granola bars, and apples to keep your energy levels high.
Consider setting up hydration stations throughout your venue with infused water options like cucumber-mint or lemon-berry to encourage guests to drink more. This not only keeps everyone hydrated but also adds a touch of elegance to your wedding decor.
Use Ice Packs
A useful trick to stay cool during the ceremony and portraits is to use ice packs or instant cold packs. Tuck them in the back of your suit jacket or dress to stay refreshed. Athletic cooling towels are another great option—they stay cool for 3-5 hours once wet and can be placed around your neck. Just remember to remove them for photos. Additionally, placing cooling gel packs in strategic areas like behind your knees or on your wrists can provide relief without being too noticeable.
Bring Fans
Fans can help circulate the air and keep you cool. Battery-operated fans are a convenient choice, but decorative paper fans can add a touch of elegance. They may seem small, but they can make a significant difference on a hot day. Hand out personalized fans as wedding favors to guests; not only will they appreciate the gesture, but it also serves a dual purpose of keeping them cool.
Provide Parasols for Guests and Wedding Party
Parasols or umbrellas can provide much-needed shade during the ceremony. Opt for light-colored parasols to avoid attracting heat. They can create a cooler environment and add a stylish touch to your wedding photos. You can even coordinate the parasol colors with your wedding theme for a cohesive look.
Offer Ice-Cold Water for Guests
Set up a station where guests can grab a bottle of ice-cold water before taking their seats. This station can also include fans and parasols for added comfort. Consider adding a variety of chilled beverages like lemonade or iced tea for a refreshing alternative. Providing chilled towels can also be a luxurious touch that your guests will appreciate.
Sweatproof Yourself
Ensure your makeup is done with sweat-proof products and finishing sprays to keep it intact throughout the day. Use deodorant and talcum powder to prevent chafing, and carry blotting papers for touch-ups. For the guys, bring an extra white undershirt in case of excessive sweating. Choosing lightweight, breathable fabrics for your attire can also make a significant difference in your comfort level.
Protect Your Skin
Avoid sunburn by applying sunscreen. An SPF of 30 or higher is ideal. Remember that SPF indicates how long the sunscreen will protect you, so reapply every 90 minutes to maintain coverage. Incorporate a skincare routine leading up to your wedding day to ensure your skin is in the best condition, and consider makeup with built-in SPF for added protection.
Guard Against Bugs
Summer brings mosquitoes and ticks. Use insect repellent containing DEET and check for ticks after walking in grassy areas. This will ensure you stay comfortable and bite-free. You can also provide guests with bug repellent wipes or sprays as part of their welcome kits, ensuring everyone enjoys the day without any pesky distractions.
Stay in the Shade
While you can’t avoid the sun entirely, try to stay in the shade whenever possible. Consider renting a tent for outdoor weddings and take frequent breaks in shaded areas. If I’m feeling hot, my clients in dresses and suits are likely feeling even hotter, so I’m always mindful of their comfort. Setting up lounge areas with comfortable seating and shade can offer guests a place to relax and cool off.
Plan Your Wedding Timeline Wisely
Schedule the ceremony and key events during the cooler parts of the day, such as early morning or late afternoon. Midday can be scorching, so having a well-thought-out timeline can make a big difference. Discuss with your photographer the best times for taking photos to avoid the harshest sunlight while still capturing beautiful moments.
Consider an Off-Season Wedding
To avoid the summer heat, consider planning your wedding in a cooler month. Spring offers blooming flowers, fall showcases gorgeous orange and red foliage, and winter provides beautiful snowy landscapes. Off-season weddings often come with greater availability of venues and vendors and may even include off-season rates. Plus, cooler weather means less stress about staying cool and more focus on enjoying your special day.
Conclusion
Planning a summer wedding in Victoria, BC, can be beautiful and enjoyable with the right preparations. By staying hydrated, using cooling techniques, and protecting yourself from the sun and bugs, you can ensure a comfortable and memorable wedding day. For more wedding planning tips and photography services in Victoria, BC, contact Stellavate Digital Marketing and Creative today. Let us help you capture your special moments while keeping cool and comfortable throughout your big day.
With these tips, you’ll be well-prepared to beat the heat and make your summer wedding in Victoria, BC, a truly unforgettable experience. From hydration to shade, every detail counts in ensuring you and your guests stay cool and enjoy every moment. Happy planning!
