Summer is the season when Boston and its surrounding areas truly shine, making it the perfect backdrop for your dream wedding. As a wedding planner who adores the warmth, long days, and the leisure of summer, I can attest to the unique charm this season brings to weddings in Boston. Whether you envision an elegant outdoor ceremony or a vibrant reception under the stars, summer weddings in the area offer many possibilities.
The Allure of Outdoor Ceremonies
One of the greatest joys of summer weddings is the opportunity to celebrate outdoors. Imagine exchanging vows in the lush gardens of the Elm Banks in Wellesley, a glamorous Pavilion of the Boston Harbor Hotel by the water, the coveted greenery of the Mandarin Oriental Garden in Boston with the city’s iconic skyline as your backdrop, or at a picturesque venue like the Crane Estate in Ipswich, where you can overlook the Atlantic Ocean. The warm weather allows for alfresco ceremonies that blend natural beauty with the romance of your big day.
Long Days, Endless Celebrations
Summer in Boston means longer days, giving you more time to savor every moment of your wedding. An extended golden hour provides stunning light for photographs, while the twilight hours create a magical atmosphere for your reception. With the sun setting later, you can plan a leisurely day, with time for everything from a mid-afternoon ceremony to a sunset cocktail hour, followed by a night of dancing.
Abundant Flowers and Lush Greenery
Boston’s summer season offers a bounty of flowers and greenery that can transform any venue into a floral wonderland. From classic roses to peonies, hydrangeas, and wildflowers, the abundance of blooms means you can create a wedding that’s as unique as your love story. Quite often, the surrounding garden flowers are just what you need for your ceremony, with little to add by your florist. Whether you prefer a soft, romantic color palette or something bold and vibrant, the variety of flowers available in the summer allows for endless creativity.
Venues That Embrace the Season
The Greater Boston area is home to a variety of venues that are perfect for summer weddings. Consider the Fairmont Copley Plaza of Boston Harbor Hotel for a sophisticated city wedding, or venture a bit outside the city to venues like Larz Anderson Museum in Brookline, The Connors Center in Dedham, or the Gardens at Elm Bank in Wellesley, where you can fully immerse yourself in the beauty of nature. These venues not only offer stunning settings but also provide excellent options for both indoor and outdoor celebrations, ensuring your day is perfect no matter the weather.
A Leisurely, Relaxed Atmosphere
One of the best aspects of summer weddings is the relaxed and leisurely vibe that comes with the season. Guests are often in a festive mood, eager to enjoy the warm weather and the celebratory spirit of your wedding. A formal affair or a more laid-back celebration, the summer season encourages a sense of ease and enjoyment that’s perfect for creating cherished memories.
Practical Tips for Summer Weddings
While summer weddings are undoubtedly beautiful, they do come with some practical considerations. Ensure that your guests stay comfortable by providing plenty of shade, hydration stations, and perhaps even fans or parasols for an outdoor ceremony. Additionally, consider the timing of your ceremony to avoid the midday heat, and work with your caterer to create a seasonal menu that takes advantage of fresh, local ingredients.
As always, have a sound Plan B in case of inclement weather. The better you are prepared, the more likely you are to have perfect weather!
Plan ahead of time. Summer weddings, especially on Saturdays, are highly popular, and the best venues are in high demand. If you have a specific date in mind, consider doing venue shopping two years/one and a half years in advance, or keep your options open and be flexible.
A summer wedding in the greater Boston area is truly a celebration of love and the season’s natural beauty. From outdoor ceremonies to the abundance of flowers and the relaxed, joyful atmosphere, summer offers the perfect backdrop for a wedding that’s both elegant and full of life. As a wedding planner, I’m here to help you bring your vision to life, ensuring that every detail is perfect for your special day. Whether you're planning an intimate garden wedding or a grand celebration, the magic of summer in Boston is sure to make your wedding unforgettable.
Wedding Planner: Primavera Dreams
Credits for photography: Tatiana Blanco Photography, Alex Gordias Photography, Kan Photography, Carly Michelle Photography, Alex Paul Photography, Mark Spooner Photography, and Edward Stonkevich Photography.
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