Planning a summer wedding?

Are you getting married this summer? You have likely thought through many of the "big" details: the dress, the venue, the photographer, and the flowers, but here are a few other things to consider when preparing for your big day...

1. Keep people comfortable. Summer can be hot. Really hot. Even in Oregon. If your wedding is to be held outdoors, plan to have shaded areas (tall trees, or a large tent). Provide plenty of cold beverages - whether by way of an open bar, a lemonade stand, or large coolers filled with bottles of water. Your guests and wedding party will be grateful for the refreshing drinks. And please don't suggest guest attire that doesn't fit the temperature. Asking men to wear jackets and ties outside in the middle of August is just cruel. 2. Save the date. Summer is a very busy time for most people. Weekends quickly fill with activities, events and vacations. In order to give your guests as much warning as possible, we recommend sending a save-the-date six months prior to your wedding day. If a mailed save-the-date does not fit into your budget, spread the word by mouth (or via a wedding website or social networking, with discretion), and aim to have your wedding invitations mailed ten weeks before your big day.

3. Think about the food. Imagine sitting by the pool on a hot, dry, sunny afternoon. Think about what would sound good to eat: fresh fruits, salads, cold soups, barbecued chicken, iced tea and light desserts. You will likely be meeting with your caterer in the dead of winter when you are craving pasta, chili and hearty breads. Keep in mind that your event is still months away and the weather will change. Heavy foods and hot days just don't mix. 4. Utilize the environment. If you are planning an outdoor wedding, you really don't need to go crazy with additional decor. Make sure what you use blends well with the rest of the venue: flowers, greenery, light linens, paper lanterns, etc. 5. Be ready to repel. Many summer weddings last well into the night - long after sunset. Don't forget that when the sun goes down, the bugs come out. Make sure you are prepared with citronella candles, bug sprays, etc. Take care to choose a brand/scent that won't overwhelm. 6. Be kind to your party. Your guests aren't the only ones to have in mind...don't forget to consider your wedding party! An outdoor wedding in the summer is a great time for bridesmaids to wear tea length dresses and sandals and for groomsmen to sport slacks and a button-up shirt. Skip the nylons, the tuxes and the ties. The same goes for the bride and groom - perhaps you should avoid full skirts, long trains and cathedral-length veils. Much of this ultimately comes down to common sense, really. In addition to these tips, think back to past summer weddings you've attended and recall what you wish the bride and groom would've provided for your comfort when you were their guest!