Summer Weddings

I recently received a wedding invitation from two friends.  They had decided to tie the knot at the end of July.  I was thrilled when I got the invitation, these two has been dating for years and I had actually introduced them one summer at Barkley Lake in Kentucky. After reading the invitation a second time it sunk in that they were planning an outdoor wedding and in the heat of the Midwest summer.

Now I realize that May through August is the number one popular time of year to get married. Summer weddings are full of sunshine and warmth, and allow you to get married outside in good weather. Summer weddings are ripe for an outdoor setting such as a beach, a garden, or a beautiful yard. Couples love to take advantage of the long days with an afternoon wedding, or highlight the glorious sunsets by saying your vows as the sun goes down behind you.

That is all fine for the happy couple but as a guest at an outdoor wedding, how would I or anyone survive the heat while still looking chic and cool.  Not screaming," I'm Melting" just when the Reverend ask if anyone know what these two should not be married.  I am sorry if I am hot and sweating I may give them a few reasons why the ceremony needs to be finished quickly.

The best summer wedding that I have attended was for my best friends here in Florida. They decided to have a pool party themed wedding. The guests were advised to wear or bring their swim suits and that the reception would be poolside.  So even though they elected to be married under the coolness of air conditioning the reception was outside and everyone had a great day.

So as the happy event approaches for my friends in Kentucky, I thought I would advise the bride to of some tips she might want to send to her wedding guest to ensure everyone is comfortable and not passing out due to the humidity of the Kentucky summer.

 Outfit Look for a cotton sundress, slacks, or other clothing made of natural fibers. Loose fitting clothing will be your friend. For men, consider a light tan suit, cotton khakis, or the old-fashioned chic of seersucker.

Stay Hydrated Everyone knows water helps keep you cool. So carry a bottle of water in your purse. If you're a man, ask your date to hold it for you, or bring it in a white gift bag.

Horses Sweat, Men Perspire, Ladies Glow To combat sweat, for you ladies, don't cover your face with a thick layer of powder. Instead, do what top beauty editors do to rid themselves of shine - blotting papers. These powdery pieces of paper will absorb oils without coating skin.  Men bring along a handkerchief so you have an appropriate cloth to blot your brow as well.

The Wedge Will Save You! Stilletos are great, but they won't work at an outdoor wedding. Whether sinking into the grass, or tripping on cobblestones, you'll wish you'd worn a more sensible shoe. A Wedge will be far more comfortable. Or, you can go for the very trendy ballerina flat.

Wear Sunscreen- It may seem like a no-brainer, but sunscreen is a must. Especially when you're trying to stay cool, the last thing you want is blistering sunburn. You never know when the sun will shift, and you'll be standing in full sun, without the possibility of moving to shade.

I know the day will be a great time for all that participate, the location the couple have chosen is beautiful and has a great number of large trees. Now if I can just convince them that the guest chairs need to be lined up in the shade of those trees.

Keep Dancin  Larry B