Your Ultimate Guide: Last-Minute Wedding Tips for a Florida Summer Wedding

You’re in the home stretch, bride-to-be

Your summer wedding in Florida is right around the corner, and I’m sure your heart is full of excitement (and maybe a tiny bit of stress—totally normal). You've picked the perfect gown, the venue is booked, and your timeline is set. But as the final days approach, the little things can make a big difference—especially in the Florida heat.

Having worked closely with many Florida brides, I’ve seen what works, what melts (literally), and what you’ll wish you had done. So here are some essential last-minute wedding tips for your Florida summer wedding—designed to help you feel radiant, relaxed, and ready for anything.

1. Expect Rain, Plan for Sunshine

Florida is called the “Sunshine State,” but summer also means daily pop-up rain showers, especially in the afternoons. Don’t let the forecast panic you—just be ready.

Quick tips:

• Have a covered ceremony or indoor Plan B ready.

• Rent a tent even if you think you won’t need it.

• Stock up on pretty clear umbrellas (they make for dreamy photo moments!).

• Ask your photographer if they’ve shot in rain—chances are they have, and they’ll know how to keep you looking fabulous.

2. Greet Guests with Something Cold and Delicious

The Florida sun can be intense, even in the morning hours. Your guests will appreciate a refreshing beverage the moment they arrive. Create a hydration station near your ceremony entrance with:

• Cucumber or citrus-infused water

• Iced tea or lemonade

• Mini chilled mocktails or cocktail shooters

• Coconut water served in glass bottles for a tropical touch

Not only is it a thoughtful gesture—it sets the tone for a breezy, comfortable celebration.

3. Go Heat-Proof with Your Hair & Makeup

Humidity is not your best friend when it comes to frizz and foundation, so make sure your beauty team knows you're getting married in Florida in July or August. This isn’t the time to test new products or skip setting spray.

Pro bride tip: Have your makeup artist create a tiny touch-up kit for you with blotting papers, powder, lipstick, and oil wipes. Tuck it into a bridesmaid’s clutch or the coordinator’s emergency bag.

Hair updos tend to hold better in heat, but if you're wearing your hair down, consider a style that embraces waves or texture—just in case the humidity has other plans.

4. Lighten the Layers

Heavy gowns, multiple underskirts, or thick beading may look stunning, but they can become overwhelming in the heat. If your dress is on the heavier side:

• Bustle it earlier in the day

• Bring a change of shoes (platform sandals or bridal sneakers)

• Consider a second look for your reception—a light crepe gown, flowy tulle dress, or short bridal romper are all great options for dancing the night away

Same goes for your partner—linen suits, short sleeves, or even dressy shorts can still be formal and breathable.

5. Keep Everyone (and Everything) Cool

Worried about grandma or your flower girl overheating? Be proactive:

• Provide paper or battery-powered handheld fans for guests

• Offer shaded seating with umbrellas or a tented ceremony space

• Rent misting fans for outdoor receptions

• Freeze bottles of water and keep them in a cooler nearby

Don’t forget about your floral arrangements. Ask your florist which blooms hold up best in heat (tropical flowers like orchids and anthuriums do well), and make sure bouquets stay in water until it’s photo time.

6. Prepare for Bugs & Skin Sensitivities

It’s Florida. Bugs love weddings too.

Set out baskets of:

• Bug spray wipes (gentler than aerosols)

• Sunscreen (reef-safe and unscented is best)

• Aloe vera or calming lotion for sun-kissed shoulders

• Mini deodorant wipes (perfect for the bridal party)

7. Shift the Timeline Slightly

The hottest part of the day in Florida is typically between noon and 3 PM. If possible, shift your ceremony to later in the day (4–5 PM) and take advantage of that golden hour glow for portraits. Not only will you avoid peak heat—you’ll also get that dreamy light for photos.

If an earlier ceremony is a must, try doing your outdoor portraits earlier in the morning or move them indoors with beautiful natural light.

8. Think Heat-Smart for Your Menu & Cake

Talk to your caterer about lighter, summer-friendly menu options:

• Grilled shrimp skewers, fresh fruit, and citrusy salads

• Mini taco bites or chilled ceviche cups

• Sorbet or popsicle treats during cocktail hour

When it comes to cake, fondant holds up better than buttercream in warm weather. If you have an outdoor reception, ask your baker to deliver the cake as close to cutting time as possible—and keep it in a shaded or air-conditioned area until then.

9. Pack a Last-Minute Wedding Day Kit

Even the most organized bride needs a few backups. Build your emergency kit with:

• Tide pen and fashion tape

• Blotting papers and mini powder

• Cooling towel

• Flip flops for dancing

• Small scissors and safety pins

• A few extra packets of electrolytes (like Liquid I.V. or Nuun)

And don’t forget a small fan or cooling mist for yourself—you’ll be thankful during photos!

10. Embrace the Florida Vibe and Let Go of Perfection

At the end of the day, some things will go exactly as planned… and some won’t. And that’s okay.

The beauty of a Florida summer wedding is that it's full of life—bright colors, tropical breezes, and unexpected fun. If the weather throws a curveball, trust your team, dance in the rain, and focus on what really matters: marrying the love of your life.

Final Thoughts:

A Florida summer wedding isn’t just a celebration—it’s an experience. With a little preparation, a flexible mindset, and a well-stocked fan, you’ll breeze through the day with grace and joy. Your guests will leave feeling loved, refreshed, and talking about your wedding for years to come.

And remember: you’re not just planning a wedding, you’re making memories in the most magical way.