Summer Wedding Hair

Warm breezes, sunshine, and unwanted frizzy hair -- while summertime weddings may seem picture-perfect, the weather can do a number on your moody mane. Check out our hairstyle tips to get stunning strands for your warm-weather wedding.

Updos

Summer Wedding Hair

Style: Whether sleek for an elegant look or slightly disheveled for a more rustic style, updos are a perfect way to get chic summer hair. Knots, bun, and twists of all shapes and sizes have made their way to the altar.

Get the look: Comb your hair with a wide-tooth comb and prep your hair with primer or mousse to keep flyaways at bay. Blow-dry your mane on a low setting or let it air dry. Once it's completely dry, curl your strands with hot rollers or use a curling iron and set with Velcro curlers. Leave the rollers in until your hair is cool, which will help retain the curl. Next, take out the curlers and slightly tease the base of each wave for added volume. Once you're finished, apply a thin layer of hair serum to your hands and gently tousle. Sweep your tresses back into a low bun, twist, or knot. Don't worry about getting it perfect -- the slightly messy look will exaggerate the soft summertime style.

Down 'Dos

Summer Wedding Hair

Style: From long, ethereal waves to glam pin curls, soft, flowing hair provides an instant laid-back look to any warm-weather wedding. Celebs like Jennifer Aniston, Avril Lavigne, and Marcia Cross donned effortlessly gorgeous wedding down 'dos.

Get the look: Start off by combing your hair straight with a paddle brush and removing any knots. Work in a curl enhancer from root to tip and scrunch. Let your strands air dry and tousle, or blow-dry on the lowest setting with a diffuser to reduce frizz. Set your strands in hot rollers for a more structured, glamorous look, or use a large-barrel curling iron for an unruly style -- be sure to pin to retain the wave. Spritz with a light finishing spray for hold and shine; then gently remove the curlers or pins. Finish by adding a little pomade to your fingertips and working it into your roots. If you're worried your hair will appear too plain, add braids or twists for extra depth.

Highlights

Style: Sun-kissed highlights are the look of the moment for summertime tresses. Not only do natural highlights add intensity, they also photograph better.

Get the look: Opt for a variety of color levels, which add movement and texture. Brunettes should never go lighter than what the sun would naturally do to their hair. For blondes, the key is depth; add various tones of flaxen for soft color. If you want a less-structured and streak-free look, try baliage -- a salon technique where a stylist paints the highlights color freehand-style, rather than using the traditional foils. The result is a natural look that blends with your roots and color.

Taming Flyaways

Style: You want shiny, silky smooth hair but humid weather can leave your strands frizzy and out-of-control, while drier climates can create split ends and straw-like locks. Keep your surroundings in mind when choosing your wedding hairstyle.

Get the look: If your hair tends to get frizzy, consider an updo that's loose around the hairline and nape of your neck, which will conceal any frizz. For hair worn down in drier areas, condition your hair with a mask the night before and apply a curl enhancer and SPF to keep your locks looking refreshed and hydrated. Have pomade and finishing spray on hand throughout the day for touch-ups.

Summer Wedding Hair

Summer Weddings: Summer Wedding Myths

The number one tip for planning a summer wedding? Don't be afraid to break the rules! We've debunked 5 of the most common summer nuptial myths.

Myth #1: You have to say "I do" outdoors

Summer Wedding

If you live in a cooler part of the country where the lush, green months of summer are precious, it may seem like you absolutely must head outside for your summer wedding. But if an outdoor wedding isn't what you've always dreamed of, an indoor space can be just as summery (and much more reliable). For one, if you're in a super-hot climate, an indoor wedding may be more comfortable for your guests not wanting to bear the heat. But beyond that, you can use your creativity and design skills to make an indoor space suit the season. Hang summer lanterns or create a summer flower-strewn indoor aisle.

Myth #2: You have to use bright summery colors

While many summer couples look to vibrant colors to reflect the season, it's most definitely not a requirement. If bold and bright just isn't your style, there's no need to hew to a palette of intense hues. Going with a subdued color scheme can actually be more unexpected -- for example, icy blues will exude a cool and refreshing atmosphere. For a surefire palette that works with almost any style -- from ultra-formal to relaxed and natural -- look to a combo of whites and ivories with green accents. An apple green hue will give a preppy, fun feel, while a deeper green like loden or moss will imbue your nuptials with a subdued elegance.

Myth #3: You can't be too formal

Summer Wedding

Yes, high temperatures probably mean you should skip the stiff, heavy dresses made of taffeta and brocade. But you don't have to put your bridesmaids in dresses with high hemlines and have your groomsmen don loafers if it's not your style. Decide on a level of formality, and then work with your bridal salon and tux shop to explore your options. For a sophisticated, formal summer wedding, consider elegant silk sheaths for your bridesmaids and lightweight dark suits for the guys. You should be able to find attire that reflects the formality of your event but won't leave you sweltering.

Myth #4: A city wedding won't work

Summer is a season when many urbanites head for the hills or the beach. But if you've always wanted a chic city wedding, you can still have it even in the summer months. A rooftop ceremony or reception will give you an outdoorsy touch without sacrificing an urban feel. Loft spaces are great for summer weddings too. Awash in windows, you can avoid high temperatures while still taking advantage of bold sunsets and glittering skyline views.

Myth #5: The heat will ruin everything

Sure, summer can be hot. But don't let the naysayers get you down. If you know there's a decent chance it will be especially hot on your wedding day, make plans to avert any weather-related disasters. Avoid wilting blooms in the bouquets and boutonnieres by asking your florist to steer you toward hardier blooms, like orchids and lilies. Consider water-submerged centerpieces featuring Mokara orchids. Because the flowers are completely under water, they'll keep cool all night long. And as for your wedding cake, get fondant instead of buttercream to avoid a melting mess. If you're set on the rich taste of buttercream, display the cake during your cocktail hour and then have the cake cutting at the beginning of your reception.

Summer Weddings: Head to Toe Summer Beauty Treatments

Summertime is all about looking effortlessly chic, but you don't have to work at it to look beautiful. From your strands to your soles and everything in between, here are a few treatments to get sun goddess-gorgeous on your wedding day.

Hair

Summer Beauty Treatments

What you want: Whether you're accenting your hair with a veil, flowers, or nothing at all, you want tresses that move and look good in the sunny surroundings.

The treatment: Make your strands stand out with sun-kissed tresses. Highlighted hair will photograph better and add definition and movement. To get a look that appears natural, try baliage. French for "strands of color," this highlighting technique ditches the traditional foils because the stylist paints color on various strands freehand. Instead of methodical highlights, you'll get natural-looking locks with a touch of definition. Plus, since the color blends in with your roots, it's easier to maintain, which is great news for your extended honeymoon.

Tip for the taking: Speaking of your honeymoon, it's important to keep your strands protected when you're out in the sun. Just like skin, hair can actually sunburn, so keep it hydrated and refreshed with a leave-in sunscreen. Brands like Phyto and Frederic Fekkai have lines dedicated to sun protection.

Makeup

Summer Beauty Treatments

What you want: From a glowing complexion to engaging eyes, you want to ensure your picture-perfect look stays in place from the vows to the very last dance.

The treatment: Consider using airbrushed makeup. A special foundation formula that won't smudge or budge is sprayed over your face and neck (even your arms and back) using an air compressor. The result is an oil-free, light base that's heavy and won't sweat off. A makeup artist can even contour your foundation to give you killer cheekbones or airbrush on a rosy cheek. Before you commit, schedule a trial run at a spa or have a makeup artist come to your house to do your whole wedding party.

Tip for the taking: Once you have your foundation set, add a little color to your eyes and lips. When you're done, set your makeup with a spray sealer to ensure a smudge-free face. Have your makeup artist try a light dusting, or do it yourself with Model in a Bottle or Invisible Setting Make-up setting spray. Similar to hair spray (without the stickiness and harsh chemicals), this sealant will lightly cover every inch to secure your makeup.

Body

What you want: With a honeymoon around the corner, you want your legs looking as smooth and cellulite-free as possible.

The treatment: If cellulite is a top concern for you, you may want to look into a noninvasive procedure such as VelaShape, which uses a combination of infrared light and bipolar radio frequency energies as well as rollers and vacuum suction. Don't be afraid of the technical jargon -- basically, the heat from the light melts the fat while the rollers and suction increase circulation for a smooth finish. Results are common after a month's worth of weekly treatments.

Tip for the taking: If VelaShape sounds too intense for you, keep your skin looking younger with an all-natural remedy called Vinotherapie. French women have been using it for years, and many spas in the US are now incorporating Vinotherapie into specific treatments. Wine and grapes with rejuvenating and anti-aging properties (there are antioxidants in the grape seeds and vines) are included in services like facials, baths, wraps, and more.

Nails

What you want: Show off your stunning engagement and wedding rings with perfectly manicured nails.

The treatment: Beyond the typical manicure-pedicure combo, keep your hands and feet looking young and show those cuticles who's boss with hand and foot microdermabrasion treatments. Your hands, feet, and cuticles will be buffed with tiny crystals using a microdermabrasion machine to exfoliate dead cells and sun damage from your top layer of skin.

Summer Beauty Treatments

Tip for the taking: While you're indulging your hands and feet, do something to help the environment too. Eco makeup and services are all the rage, but now brides can use environmentally friendly nail polish. Try brands like PeaceKeeper Nail Paint (made from natural minerals; some are vegan) and WaterColors Non-Peel Off Polish (made from a water-base and totally odor-free). Order a few online and test them at your local nail salon.

Summer Weddings: Catering Ideas for Summer Weddings

So many fabulous foods are especially suited for the summer months, so it can be hard to choose the menu for your summer wedding. Just think of all those great memories of savory cookouts and sweet treats at carnivals. We've consulted some top wedding pros to get the trendiest food and drink ideas for your summer wedding.

Refreshing Drinks

Catering Ideas for Summer Weddings

Let guests slake their thirst -- and get the party started -- by offering a fabulous selection of drinks. Nonalcoholic lemonade or iced tea bars are very popular. Displaying different flavors (and colors!) of lemonade or tea in giant glass jugs along with cut fruit for garnishes makes for a lovely, decorative setup during your cocktail hour or reception.
More ideas: When it comes to cocktails, think light and refreshing. Two new favorites: hibiscus iced tea with raspberry liqueur and citron vodka; and spiked cucumber-mint lemonade. For the latter, take vodka and simple syrup pressed with mint (similar to making a mojito), mix with lemonade, and garnish with a slice of cucumber for a fun signature cocktail.

Cool Appetizers

Icy apps can help hot guests cool down during your cocktail hour or reception. Shrimp cocktail on ice is always refreshing. While ice sculpture raw bars remain popular, if that's not your style, consider serving individual shrimp set on cups of shaved ice.
More ideas: Anything miniature is hugely popular for weddings of all seasons. For a summer wedding, think of seasonally inspired options like shots of gazpacho served in carved-out cucumber cups or mini Caesar salads.

Sizzling Entree Selections

Catering Ideas for Summer Weddings

Summer is the season for barbecuing, so consider serving a grilled entree for instant seasonal style. Rather than going for heavier fare like steak or pulled pork, stick to the lighter side with chicken or fish. Bringing in fruity flavors will add even more seasonal flair -- think chili-lime rubbed chicken breasts or grilled tilapia topped with mango salsa.

More ideas: Go for upscale picnic-style fare, which is both a low-maintenance and high-style way to go. One example menu we love: coconut-fried chicken served with dipping sauces, red bliss potato salad, and mandarin orange and mesclun salad with raspberry vinaigrette. The options are endless (and delicious!).

Desserts Double as Decor

Serving a dessert in addition to the wedding cake is more popular than ever and a great way to season-ize your menu. Give your dessert double impact by choosing a sweet treat that echoes the ambience of your event. Consider serving a mini-scoop trio of sorbet that mimics the colors of your wedding. With so many flavors to choose from -- melon, lime, raspberry, mango, and more -- you're sure to find something yummy that suits your style.

More ideas: Create "dessert gardens" by having your caterer attach small pieces of cheesecake or chocolate to lollipop sticks and displaying them in a fresh bed of wheatgrass. They're as cute and chic as they are easy to eat for a late-night snack to polish off a perfect evening.

Summer Weddings: Best Summer Honeymoon Weather by the Month

Planning to take your honeymoon during the summer months? Here is where the weather will be its best during June, July, and August.

June

Bermuda
Brazil
Britain
Canada
Central & South Africa
Czech Republic
Fiji
France
French Polynesia
Greece
Hawaii
Ireland
Italy
Madagascar
Maldives
Mauritius
Seychelles
Spain
Thailand
USA (Alaska, Northeast)

July & August

Bermuda
Brazil
Britain
Canada
Central & South Africa
Czech Republic
Fiji
France
French Polynesia
Ireland
Kenya
Madagascar
Malaysia
Seychelles
Thailand
USA (Alaska, Northeast)

Summer Weddings: 8 Hot Summer Wedding Trends

Summer is a popular time for weddings, but that doesn't mean you have to stick with the summer wedding tradition standbys. Read on for eight new ideas for your summer celebration.

Trend 1: Dynamic Colors

Hot Summer Wedding Trends

Bright hues are popular for summer weddings. But if you try to use too many colors in one space, you might wind up with a look that's more carnival than nuptial.

What's hot now: Think sophisticated brights. Sticking with just two hues (or two plus an accent color) will keep your space unified. Rather than splashing color all over your reception space, use one dynamic color for a strong statement -- think all-pink centerpieces or bold orange table linens. This holds especially true for your centerpieces: Instead of multicolored centerpieces, alternate single-color floral arrangements for a pulled-together look.

Trend 2: Laid-back Music

It's summer, so why not lighten the ambience a little? A pianist or string trio will do the trick if you're having a formal cocktail hour, but to really embrace the season, think about alternative summery music styles.

What's hot now: Create a laid-back vibe during your cocktail hour and dinner with steel drums or a singer accompanied with a ukulele. For the reception, heat up the evening with sultry sounds -- we love the idea of incorporating classic swing or big band music to add a fast, upbeat tempo to the evening.

Trend 3: New Themes

Basic beach or garden themes are classic for the summer. Instead of a generic setting or theme, take the personal route.

What's hot now: Think of your favorite summer hangouts when planning your theme. Rather than just any beach, bring in elements specific to the beach you remember as a kid. If it was a cabin in the woods, go for a mountain theme. Another idea: Honor your honeymoon destination. If you're having a garden wedding but honeymooning in Hawaii, add orchids to your bouquets or fill the bottoms of your centerpiece vases with black lava rocks.

Trend 4: Unexpected Invitations

Hot Summer Wedding Trends

Letterpressed invites in ivory and black are still as popular and elegant as ever. But if you want to go for something a little more unexpected, ultra-creative wedding invitation designers definitely have color and printing options for you.

What's hot now: Use colors in a new and unexpected way on your invites by reversing the typical invitation color scheme. For example, rather than using fuchsia lettering on a cream-colored invite, opt for cream print on fuchsia paper. Or mix it up -- do the cream-colored invite with fuchsia writing, and then a bright pink reply card with a cream-colored font. Consider the material of your invite as well. One hot-off-the-press idea: Get fabric-printed invites, programs, and escort cards for a laid-back look perfect for summer.

Trend 5: Natural Centerpieces

Cut citrus fruit is a tried-and-true favorite for summertime centerpieces, but other options out there are more unexpected and just as visually appealing.

What's hot now: Love fruit but want something new? Have your florist use hollowed-out watermelons as a centerpiece container for a casual look that's fun and seasonal. Another option is to go natural and green with your containers. Incorporate wooden vases or pedestals with grass or moss to give centerpieces a textured, natural feel.

Trend 6: Wine Smoothies

Your guests will definitely want something cold and frosty, but margaritas and daiquiris can be had at any summertime bar. Instead, go for a libation that's a little out of the ordinary.

What's hot now: Wine smoothies are cold, frosty, and pack less of an alcoholic punch than margaritas. Perfect for your cocktail hour and as a signature drink for the evening, ask your caterer about serving one of these concoctions. A wine smoothie consists of a fruity wine, like rose, blended with ice and fruits of your choice. Garnished with a couple of berries or fruit slices, it makes for a refreshing and unexpected signature sip.

Trend 7: Beyond Wedding Cake

White wedding cakes are popular for every season, and of course, chocolate always reigns for groom's cakes. But with cake bakers nowadays offering so many delectable flavors and fillings, why not try a seasonal selection?

What's hot now: Get inspired by the summer flavors you loved as a child. Think fresh strawberries and whipped cream filling for a strawberry shortcake-style wedding cake, or a citrus-infused filling like Key lime, lemon, or orange vanilla buttercream that honors a summertime fruit. Beyond the cake, consider serving other desserts. A big-hit idea we love: Hire an ice cream truck to arrive at the end of the night offering summertime favorites -- the perfect nostalgic, late-night snack for your guests.

Trend 8: Eco-Friendly Favors

Classic summer favors like flip-flops and drink koozies will always satisfy, but why not give back to the planet while you give back to your guests?

What's hot now: Eco-friendly favors are bigger than ever, particularly if you're taking advantage of natural beauty and marrying outdoors. One idea: Give guests locally grown herbs planted in recyclable glass jars or tin cans. Dressed up with ribbon or paper in your wedding colors, they're gorgeous and good for the earth. Beyond plants, you might also consider donating to a local charity for a wedding favor idea that never goes out of season.

wet wedding

These are some of wet wedding images:

wet wedding

wet wedding