Summer of Love
Hot weddings, cool rates

If you are working within a strict budget but want the best Tucson 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.

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-the-border 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:
Philipramackers.com