Summer is the perfect time to get married! The weather is warm, the days are longer, and there are so many ways to create a special matrimonial event that celebrates your unique love story. If you’re planning a summer wedding, we’ve got some great trends to inspire you.
Summer Wedding Trends
1. Location (Still) Matters
There’s nothing quite like getting married in a special location. With summer weather comes the opportunity to host your wedding ceremony and reception in a beautiful natural setting.
Here at The Inn, we have hosted many gorgeous ceremonies on our Great Lawn. It is perfect for any couple looking for that picturesque backdrop and the ultimate outdoor wedding experience.
Best of all, wedding ceremonies can occur on the Great Lawn and receptions can be held in the Latham Ballroom or Preston’s Restaurant!
Explore weddings at The Inn at Virginia Tech >>
2. Weekday Weddings
Although the pandemic has slowed down quite a few weddings, it has not stopped the rise in engagements!
As a result of this, wedding venues are flooded with postponed weddings and weekend availability is becoming increasingly difficult to find. Does this snowball into a problem for guests requesting time off to attend? Sure, but there are advantages for couples in this as well, such as saving money, more vendor options, and a better chance to secure your dream venue.
RELATED: Weekday Weddings: Why They’re a Great Option for Couples
3. Bold Colors
Summer is the perfect time to experiment with color.
The neutral tones that dominated 2020 and 2021 weddings have given way to deeper colors this summer. From wine-colored dresses to merlot table settings, deep reds are making a comeback in a big way.
INNsider Tip: Virginia Tech’s iconic color combination of Burnt Orange and Chicago Maroon is always on trend!
YOU MAY ENJOY: Weddings on the VT Campus – a Hokie Take on Happily Ever After
4. The Return of Cocktail Rounds
Cocktail rounds were a popular pre-reception activity in the early 2000s, but they fell out of favor as couples leaned into more casual wedding vibes.
This summer, we’re seeing a resurgence of cocktail rounds – with a twist – as couples look for ways to add a touch of sophistication to their big day.
Rather than waiting for the staff to bring drinks over, there will be “drink stations” throughout the event where guests can grab their own drinks. This makes things more convenient and gives people something to do while they mingle!
INNsider Tip: We’ve seen a surge in delicious mocktail recipes made with natural, fresh juices, herbs, and florals. Be sure to include a few mocktail options for guests as well.
5. Cuisine-inspired Wedding Events
We’re seeing more and more couples infuse their culinary story into all their wedding events. Welcome parties, rehearsal dinners, wedding receptions, and post-wedding events are all inspired by favorite or nostalgic foods.
These can range from thematic, such as a New Orleans-inspired menu to honor their first date, to serving grandma Betty’s famous fried chicken recipe at the reception.
Food is playing a key role in all wedding festivities this year.
6. Outdoor Games
Outdoor games are a great way to keep guests entertained throughout your wedding weekend. We’ve seen everything from classic games like cornhole and ladder toss to more unique options like giant Jenga and human-sized chess.
No matter what you choose, guests will love getting in on the action and spending time outdoors with a few strategically placed lawn games this summer.
7. Greenery Galore
Greenery is always popular in the summertime, but this year we’re seeing couples really embrace it in their wedding décor.
From garlands made of greenery to hanging installations, there are many ways to incorporate this trend into your big day.
8. Having Fun with Wedding Attire
A relaxed summer wedding is a perfect opportunity to have some fun with your wedding attire.
We’re seeing couples ditch the traditional gowns and tuxes in favor of more casual ensembles.
For example, brides might opt for a pretty sundress or even a jumpsuit, while grooms might choose to wear linen pants and a button-down shirt.
You can also have fun with your accessories, like wearing sunglasses or a straw hat or colorful shoes and socks.
9. Music Creates the Mood
Music can be an important component of telling the couple’s story, and it helps set the tone for the entire event.
This summer, we’re seeing a trend towards live music, with couples hiring bands or soloists to perform during the ceremony, cocktail hour, or reception.
Live music always creates a more festive and energizing atmosphere, and it’s a great way to personalize your wedding.
Your wedding should be a reflection of your unique style and personality and these trends are a great way to make your big day stand out.
Whether you’re looking for ways to add a personal touch or want to stay ahead of the trends, we hope these ideas inspire you!
The most important thing is to have fun and enjoy the process when it comes to wedding planning. After all, this is a once-in-a-lifetime event that you’ll remember forever!
Explore weddings at The Inn at Virginia Tech >>
