Wedding Themes for Summer – Drinks, Decorations, & More

Summer weddings have always been a favorite among couples, and for good reason. The stunning weather, infinite attire options, and extended daytime hours make it an ideal season for tying the knot. As we prepare for the next season of summer weddings, let’s explore some of the most inspiring and memorable wedding themes that are making waves this season.

A Tropical Twist

The tropical theme is all about bold, bright colors and decor elements that transport guests to a sun-soaked paradise. Think palm trees, tropical flowers, and vibrant table settings. Even if you don’t live in a tropical area and aren’t looking to host a destination wedding, you can create the tropical feel with your choice of venue, music and decoration.

The menu can feature citrus and seafood dishes, Hawaiian style roast pork or Southeast Asian tropical fare such as traditional Thai food and other island inspired cuisine. Couple that with a list of cocktails sporting a tropical twist and you will have a summer wedding to remember.

Consider a menu with farm-to-table offerings such as wild mushrooms, earthy sauces and salads with forest berries. For drinks, steer towards a homemade touch with hints of blueberry, raspberry and even mix in a little naturally made jam from a local maker. This theme is all about the feeling of home in the American heartland.

Eco Chic

In today’s day and age, environmentally conscious choices are at the forefront of wedding planning. Opt for eco-friendly venues, reusable decor, and a menu that emphasizes sustainability. Offering environmentally responsible transportation to and from your wedding will certainly be a good look.

For food, keep it light on the meat and offer dishes with sustainably wild caught fish and source all of your produce from local, eco-conscious farms. You may even consider offering mostly vegan fare. For drinks, keep them light with lots of locally sourced ingredients such as mint for mojitos and fruits for sangria.

Try to purchase your alcohol from a small batch distillery, beer from a family owned brewery and wine from a boutique winery that produces a low amount of barrels per year. Wherever possible purchase locally and as close to the venue as possible, as transportation of goods is a major contributor to the negative environmental situation on our planet.

Every choice made with the environment in mind not only makes a statement but also ensures a celebration that honors love for the planet.

Beachside Bliss

There’s nothing quite like saying “I do” with the sound of waves crashing in the background. Beach weddings are all about sandy aisles, driftwood arches, and a color palette inspired by the sea. Now that doesn’t mean you need to go with bright blue and light orange. Of course you can, but perhaps you prefer beaches with darker tones like those on the coast of Washington or Oregon. The beauty of this theme is its versatility.

When it comes to food, let the sea in your chosen location help you decide. For instance, If you are tying the knot in the Carolinas, a nice broiled red porgy dish, some garlic buttered shrimp and tuna tartare will delight your guests. If your big day is in central California, dishes such as dungeness crab with rosemary butter, oysters kirkpatrick and even clam chowder will round out your perfect wedding reception. Of course, even if you opt for a wedding in the Alabama countryside, you can still capture a beachside bliss theme.

Vintage Vibes

For those who adore the charm of bygone eras, a vintage theme is perfect. Incorporate vintage vehicles, attire, and decor to create a timeless atmosphere. Your color choices should match your chosen era. If you want to go with a 1930’s era inspired wedding, dark greens and blues will do the trick. Do you love the 50’s, then bright pastels are all the rage.

The menu can feature classic dishes, and drinks can be served in retro glassware. These will all depend on the era you choose, so make sure to choose wisely.

Perfectly Pastel

Isn’t everything pretty in pink? Well with a soft and romantic, pastel-themed wedding it’s all about delicate hues and dreamy decor. Floral patterns, pastel tones, and vintage tableware set the scene for this classic wedding.

The menu can feature light and refreshing drinks and dishes like tasty fruit salads and bubbly cocktails. Pull all of these factors together and you have a bright and beautiful feel for this incredible occasion.

Secret Garden

Imagine a wedding set in a lush garden, with floral patterns, pastel tones, and vintage tableware. Whisk your guests away to your own private wonderland by hosting tea parties on the lawn and garden party inspired games.

Feature whimsical decor and music with a menu featuring fresh produce from local farms along with healthy, fun drinks and cocktails with a cucumber twist. This theme is fun, fresh and will make for a lifetime of memories.

Carnival Celebration

For couples who want a fun and unconventional wedding, a carnival theme is perfect. Think circus tents, colorful attire, food trucks, and ice cream stands. The entertainment can include games, live music, and performances that keep guests immersed throughout.

For drinks, keep up the fun atmosphere with cocktails like the carnival cosmo and cinnamon apple cider mimosas. If you really want to ramp up the evening, offer shots inspired by caramel apples and cotton candy.

Conclusion

Summer weddings are all about personalization, creativity, and making choices that resonate with the couple’s values and aesthetics. Whether it’s a tropical paradise, a vintage affair, or an eco-friendly celebration, the possibilities are endless. Embrace the magic of summer and create a wedding that will be remembered for years to come.