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| Photo Credit: Blue Rose Photography via rusticweddingchic.com |
In case you hadn’t noticed, it’s summer,
and here in Italy it is hot.
It’s sometimes easier to organise weddings
in summer – holidays mean that kids are off school, and your guests will
be happy to use up some of their annual leave if it means they not only get to
go to your incredible wedding, but can spend a week in beautiful Italy on holiday as well!
That said, there are a couple of negatives
which must also be considered.
Firstly, the temperature. July and August,
and even early September in Italy are hot - very, very hot – with August
temperatures often touching 40 degrees even in the north, while the heat in the
south doesn’t bear thinking about! Secondly, August in Italy is considered a
holiday month. Although the national holiday, Ferragosto, falls on the 15th,
the majority of businesses close for the entire month and Italians all go to
the beach until the end of August. This means that inland towns and cities are
almost deserted, beaches are packed
full, and prices go up if you’re anywhere near the sea. It also means that many
restaurants, shops and bars aren’t open, so if you had a particular restaurant
in mind for your reception, it’s a good idea to confirm it doesn’t close!
BUT if, for whatever reason, you do decide on an August wedding in
Italy, there are some things you should think about in order to make sure you
have an amazing day.
The time: Bear in mind that mornings are much cooler than afternoons (although
still hot), and that while the temperature does go down when the sun does, it
is still very warm, even at night. If you’re keen on an outdoor element for
your wedding, consider moving your reception party outside after dark, or
having your dinner later than you normally would. Always bear in mind that the
highest temperatures tend to be from 2pm-6pm, and make sure you have suncream
on hand for any fair-skinned guests!
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| Photo Credit: Brian Dorsey Studios via stylemepretty.com |
The venue: While you may have fallen in
love with the idea of an outdoor ceremony, trust me when I say that sitting or
standing under the blazing sun is not always a pleasant experience. Guests will
move around to try to find shade (particularly if they’re not used to the
Mediterranean climate), and will fan themselves throughout the ceremony with
whatever they can get their hands on, meaning the background of all your photos
will either be a load of empty seats and a huddle of relatives under a tree, or
a sweaty and disheveled Auntie Alice frantically fanning herself with the order
of service. Consider an indoor venue, or perhaps a terraced area where you will
always be in the shade. Villas, castles or agriturismi/farmhouses can often
offer you options; beautiful rooms indoors – often with enormous windows to the
green, sunny outside, or even a covered terrace area where you can breathe in
the summer air without being scorched. If you’re determined to be outside, a
marquee could provide you with some shade and also provides a structure for all
your lovely decorations.
The food and drink: Your wedding planner and caterers will be able to advise you on the best choices for your wedding menu depending on the region you choose. Remember that although you and your guests will be keen to sample Italian food, the heat means that heavier dishes should be avoided, and you should bear this in mind even if you decide on your menu when it’s only winter or spring! Fresh, local fruits and vegetables are an absolute must, and cold desserts are in any case the most delicious here in Italy! Make sure your guests are sufficiently hydrated too – plenty of water should be served alongside the obligatory fantastic Italian wine.
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| Photo Credit: Landa at I Am Yours Now via www.bridalmusings.com |
The dress: Do think very carefully about
what you wear. There’s nothing worse than heatstroke on your big day and by
choosing a dress carefully, you don't have to overheat. Think about fabrics – flowing
materials like chiffon, silk-organza or tulle are always a safe bet as these are
all light and airy and will help you to stay cool. Natural fabrics will be more
breathable than synthetic ones, and obviously the thicker the layers, the
hotter you’ll be. Think about the cut of the dress too. A backless or low-cut
(back or front) dress means less skin is covered by fabric, and there are tons
of options which incorporate this concept in a totally tasteful way. An empire
line dress means less fabric sticking around your middle, and strapless, halter,
or thin-strapped gowns are your friends. Ball gown styles are a no-no – all
that fabric will be far too hot. Likewise, if you want to show off your
curves, try to find a dress which flatters them without hugging, as structured
dresses are bound to be the thickest and therefore the hottest. If you really
want to keep cool, and are willing to push the boundaries a little, why not
consider a short dress? In recent years, these have become more and more
popular, and nowadays there are so many options available, whether you want
something frilly, boho, or simple and elegant. Choose a mini dress to show off
your legs, a knee-length for an elegant summer wedding, or a below-the-knee
style to channel a 50s icon.
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| Photo Credit: Shipra Panosian via www.projectwedding.com |
Provided you make careful choices, your
summer wedding in Italy has the potential to be truly perfect and utterly
unforgettable.
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