The perk of a summer wedding date? The beautiful weather.  The downside of a summer wedding date? The hot weather. Here’s how to enjoy the beautiful weather of your summer wedding—without worrying about melting (and that applies to you and your guests!).

Include cool treats in your wedding cuisine

Cool wedding treats, such as cool drinks or sundae bar, can be a real hit with your guests looking for relief from the heat—and play up your summer wedding theme.  If you have a specific cool wedding treat made by your favorite caterer, look for a wedding venue with an open vendor policy. An open vendor policy allows you to bring your caterer in so you can enjoy your favorite cool appetizer, dessert, or drink on your special day.

Choose a cool wedding venue

Add another item to your wedding venue checklist: air conditioning.  The perfect wedding venue is beautiful and cool during a summer wedding, allowing your guests (and you!) a reprieve from the hot and humid weather.

If you’re really worried about the summer heat, try to plan as much of your summer wedding indoors.  Plan your wedding at multiple indoor locations or find a gorgeous venue that allows you to hold your ceremony and reception indoors.

Buy a dress (and make up!) that won’t overheat

We once know a bride who was dying to have a velvet dress—so much so that she had one specially made for her fall wedding.  While it was comfortable during her outdoor photos, she spent the rest of the night sweating under her heavy wedding dress.

Learn from our velvet-clad bride; choose a wedding dress that keeps you cool (or as cool as possible) on your wedding day.  Try to avoid long sleeves or heavy fabrics that’ll trap the heat.  Avoid putting on your dress until you absolutely have to, so you can stay comfortable in cooler attire.  Another option is to buy a second and lighter dress just for the reception—perhaps with a shorter hem?

Be kind to your wedding party

As much as your wedding attendants love you, no one wants to stand outside for pictures in heavy dresses and jackets.  If you are planning a more informal wedding, plan to have groomsmen in attire that doesn’t include heavy jackets.  Give your bridesmaids the same consideration, and give them fancy flip flops for the ceremony or reception.

In addition to attire, keep your wedding party well hydrated with water bottles that are easy to grab throughout the day.  (And, no, beer does not count as hydration.)

Take care of your guests with favors

Think of your guests when you choose your favors; mints or frames won’t keep them cool at your summer wedding. Instead, consider cool summer favors such as mini water bottles or popsicles. Create wedding programs that can transform into a fan during the ceremony and at dinner.