A summer wedding in Oregon is pure magic - long golden hours, dreamy outdoor landscapes, and nature in full bloom. But as much as the sunshine adds to the romance, it can also bring heat-induced hiccups if you’re not prepared. To help you enjoy every moment without breaking a sweat, we turned to some of Oregon’s top wedding pros for their go-to strategies to stay stylish, refreshed, and worry-free all day long.
Time It Right
“Timing Is Everything, Babe,” says Victoria Licciardello of The Indigo Bride. “Stay ahead of the heat by planning your ceremony before 11am or after 5pm, when the lighting is gorgeous, the temps are cooler, and your glam stays picture-perfect. Keep things sweet and simple - no need for a super long ceremony when everyone’s ready to celebrate."
Serve Signature Sips
According to Katie Kearn of Portland Event & Design, one of the most thoughtful ways to beat the heat and keep everyone refreshed is by offering guests a signature cocktail upon arrival. “We love serving something citrus-forward and visually appealing, like a grapefruit spritz or peach whiskey smash, garnished with fresh fruit. It’s a simple detail that sets a welcoming tone for the celebration ahead.”
Her team at Portland Catering Company echoes the sentiment emphasizing the impact of a seasonal sip. “We craft refreshing, easy-to-serve options that are designed for summer and elevate the celebration in both taste and presentation.” A well-chosen cocktail doesn’t just cool guests down - it adds personality and polish to the entire experience. Consider this your permission to make your bar just as beautiful and as functional as your bouquet.
Let Nature Help You Stay Cool
Sometimes, the best way to beat the heat is simply to lean on the natural surroundings. Shannon Berger-Hammond of Mt. Hood Skibowl offers a fun and adventurous take: “You can give guests a parasol, provide shade, or even a cool mist, but you can also send them down the Alpine Slide for a refreshing breeze through the trees to your reception!” With cooler mountain evenings and breathtaking views, venues like this turn nature into your secret weapon against the summer sun.
Similarly, Veronica Rico of Bella Vida 360 highlights the power of a venue’s natural airflow: “When the summer sun is blazing, finding a venue with natural cooling can be a total game-changer. Our elevated hilltop location is a favorite for hot day weddings because it catches a refreshing breeze, keeping guests comfortable without the need for extra cooling gear.” The combination of stunning vistas and fresh air makes it easy to stay cool and truly enjoy every moment of your special day.
Plan For Shade
Joie Thongsavath of Simple Joie Photography recommends, “Strategically schedule key events in or near shaded areas, or host indoor receptions following outdoor ceremonies to give everyone a break from the sun.” Providing these cool retreats not only helps guests stay comfortable but also protects delicate details like makeup, décor, and flowers from the harsh midday rays. Thoughtful planning around shade ensures your guests remain energized and engaged throughout the day, creating a relaxed atmosphere that flows seamlessly from heartfelt vows to lively dancing. Incorporating natural or built shade into your event layout is a simple yet effective way to beat the heat without sacrificing style or comfort.
Prioritize Guest Comfort with Hydration Stations
When it comes to summer weddings, comfort is key - no one wants to melt during the “I do’s”! The team at Château de Harpe makes guest experience a top priority by incorporating chic, functional details like parasols for shade, self-serve hydration stations with infused water, lemonade, and sparkling options, and handheld fans placed at ceremony seats. These small yet impactful touches help keep the celebration cool, relaxed, and totally unforgettable.
Main photo by Burman Photography courtesy of Chateau de Harpe
