Golden hour vows. Forested backdrops. Lakeside views that stretch for miles. Summer weddings in Washington have an undeniable magic, but as dreamy as the Pacific Northwest can be, its warm-weather weddings come with a few heat-related hurdles. From managing triple-digit temps to preparing for the region’s famously unpredictable weather, pulling off a stylish, seamless summer wedding takes planning, flexibility, and the right team.
We asked Washington wedding pros how they help couples embrace the best of summer without letting the heat (or haze) steal the spotlight. Here’s how to stay cool, keep guests comfortable, and make the most of that gorgeous summer light.
Shift Your Ceremony Toward Golden Hour
Timing can make or break a summer celebration and when it comes to beating the heat, the pros recommend pushing your ceremony later in the day. “One of the best ways to beat the summer sun is by shifting your ceremony to later in the day,” says Madison Henrie of the Seattle Wedding Show. “A golden hour ceremony not only keeps guests more comfortable but also creates stunning, natural lighting for photos - warm, flattering, and effortless.”
Use Tents for Shade and Style
Whether you're hosting an elegant lawn reception or a rustic outdoor gathering, a strategically placed tent can completely transform the guest experience. “Tents not only provide ample shade, keeping your guests cool and protected from UV rays, but they also offer a stylish focal point for your event, ensuring your décor and delicious food stay fresh and not melting in the heat,” says the team at Grand Event Rentals. "Beyond just comfort, a well-placed tent can enhance the overall aesthetic of your party, creating defined spaces for mingling, dining, or dancing, allowing you to truly "beat the summer sun" and focus on making lasting memories."
Ashley Stender of The Woodmark Hotel & Still Spa on Lake Washington agrees that a well-planned tent setup is essential for comfort without compromising the view. “When you’re investing in a stunning outdoor wedding, especially with views as gorgeous as the Pacific Northwest, no one wants to retreat indoors. A well-placed tent can offer shade while still allowing everyone to enjoy the scenery,” she says. “At The Woodmark, we provide a beautiful tent setup complete with lighting, draping, and thoughtful landscaping to complement our breathtaking views of the Olympic Mountains and Lake Washington.”
Choose Venues with Natural Shade
Sometimes the best form of shade is the kind you don’t have to bring in. “At The Hall at Fauntleroy, couples who say ‘I do’ in the Vashon Garden & Courtyard enjoy a ceremony space naturally protected by towering trees and lush greenery,” says Maya Ortiz-Camacho of DSquared Hospitality Company. "This organic canopy offers guests much-needed shade on warm summer days without sacrificing the beauty of an outdoor setting. It’s a win-win: soft dappled light for photos and a more comfortable experience for everyone (including the officiant)."
Blend Shade with Style
At Suncadia Resort, Jennifer Lazon emphasizes that summer weddings can be both stunning and comfortable with the right design elements. “We love incorporating oversized umbrellas, market lighting, and forest-edge layouts to provide functional shade that doesn’t sacrifice style,” she shares. These thoughtful touches not only offer relief from the sun, but also enhance the natural beauty of the surroundings creating a soft, romantic atmosphere where guests can stay cool and comfortable while soaking in the Pacific Northwest views.
Think Ahead About Weather and Wildfire Plans
Summer weather in the Pacific Northwest can be gorgeous, but unpredictable. “It’s no secret that summers in the PNW are some of the country’s best kept secret,” says Danae Johnsen of Hyatt Regency Lake Washington, “however, it also comes with unexpected weather, like rain or unfortunately, wildfires.” She recommends couples confirm that their venue has a solid backup plan for both smoke and rain. And if the day ends up hot and sunny? "Have cold beverages available upon arrival to the ceremony, along with plenty of umbrellas to offer relief if cocktail hour is in direct sunlight.”
Design with Comfort in Mind
Keeping guests cool can be simple with the right details. “Summer weddings are undeniably beautiful,” says Tanya Kertland of The Golf Club at Newcastle, “but they also come with soaring temperatures. The key to a successful summer celebration is thoughtful planning to keep everyone cool and comfortable. Think shaded ceremony spaces, refreshing signature cocktails, hand fans or parasols for guests, and a well-timed sunset reception. Lightweight attire, indoor-outdoor flow, and well-placed cooling stations can make all the difference. With the right touches, you can embrace the summer magic while keeping the heat at bay ensuring your guests remember the romance, not the sweat!"
Main Photo by Kristen Honeycutt Photo Co. courtesy of Hyatt Regency Lake Washington-At Seattle’s Southport
