How to survive a wedding in a UK heatwave.
When you picture a British wedding, 30 - 40 degree temperatures is not the first thing that springs to mind. However, there is no doubt that our climate is changing and therefore it’s important to consider all weather possibilities when planning your wedding.
As a UK wedding videographer, I’ve seen firsthand how heat can affect a wedding day. However, with a little planning, you can stay comfortable, enjoy every moment, and avoid turning into a sweaty mess before the first dance.
Here are my top tips for surviving a wedding in a UK heatwave!
1. Hydration
This sounds obvious, but it’s the biggest one.
Start hydrating the day before, not just on the morning of your wedding. If you wake up already dehydrated, catching up becomes much harder.
Keep water easily accessible while getting ready, and ask someone in your bridal party to remind you to drink regularly (because yes, excitement makes people forget basic human needs).
Bonus tip:
Electrolyte tablets or sachets can help if it’s really hot.
2. Think carefully about your outfit
Heatwave weddings are not the time to suffer for fashion.
Brides:
Consider lighter fabrics like chiffon, silk, crepe, or organza
If your dress has sleeves or heavy layers, ask your seamstress about options
Bring a second outfit for the evening. This is something I would recommend regardless of the weather as if your dress is heavy you will be grateful you have the option to change so you can easily dance the night away!
Grooms:
I have the upmost respect for guys who commit to the 3 piece woollen suits, they do look awesome but do consider the chances of extreme heat as sweat and light headiness is not a wedding day vibe.
Consider:
Linen or lightweight wool blends
Losing the waistcoat later in the day
Breathable shirts
No shame in rolling sleeves for the evening
3. Have a shade plan
If your ceremony or drinks reception is outdoors, shade matters more than people realise.
Ask your venue:
Are there parasols?
Covered areas?
Indoor backup spaces?
Fans or cooling units?
Standing in direct sun for 30 - 45 minutes becomes uncomfortable very quickly, so be prepared to ease the struggle. Remember your guests, especially elderly relatives and little ones, will struggle the most in the heat so accommodate for the most vulnerable and every will thank you.
4. Rethink your timeline
A heatwave changes energy levels.
The hottest part of the day is usually between 2–5pm, so avoid packing physically demanding things into that window if possible.
Good things to schedule during peak heat:
Indoor speeches
Quiet downtime
Food
Air-conditioned breaks
Things to avoid in peak heat:
photography and videography portrait sessions
Outdoor group photos with 100 people
Lawn games requiring cardio
As a wedding videographer, I can confirm that couples look much happier on camera when they aren’t overheating.
5. Keep hair and makeup heat-proof
Sweat happens.
A good hair and makeup artist will prep for heat, but it helps to discuss this in advance.
Ask for:
Long-wear products
Stronger setting spray
Humidity-resistant styling
Touch-up kits
Pack:
Blotting papers
Powder
Lip product
Mini deodorant
Hair grips
Small emergency kits can save the day!
6. Feed people properly
Hot weather suppresses appetite but doesn’t negate the need to eat.
Choose food that feels lighter and fresher:
Salads
Grilled food
Fruit
Cold desserts
Ice cream carts
7. Provide cooling extras
Use the heatwave to provide fun and caring extras for your guests. Things like:-
Hand fans
Sunglasses
Parasols
Cold towels
Mini sunscreen station
Ice water on arrival
8. Don’t overdo alcohol early
Champagne in the sunshine hits differently.
A few drinks on an empty stomach in high temperatures can quickly lead to headaches, dizziness, or worse.
Try alternating alcoholic drinks with water, especially before the ceremony and speeches.
9. Be flexible with photos & video
Golden-hour portraits are always beautiful but during a heatwave, midday sun can be harsh and uncomfortable.
If possible, trust your photographer and videographer to adjust.
We may suggest:
More shade
Shorter portrait sessions
Splitting couple portraits into smaller sessions
Waiting for softer evening light
The best photos happen when you feel comfortable enough to actually enjoy each other.
10. Accept that perfection might look different
This might be the most important tip.
Your hair might go a bit wild, your dress might stick slightly, someone will complain it’s too hot, your groom may sweat through his shirt and none of that means your day is ruined.
Years from now, you probably won’t remember the exact temperature.
You’ll remember:
laughing with your favourite people
finally marrying your person
dancing at sunset
everyone having the best time
If a heatwave arrives on your wedding day adapt, hydrate, and embrace it.
Are you planning a summer wedding in the UK? As a wedding videographer, I’ve filmed everything from rainstorms to blazing sunshine, and I’m always ready to help couples make the most of whatever the British weather throws at us.
At Films About Love I create beautiful, natural and heartfelt films filled with love, laughter and everything in between.
Capturing those special moments without you even knowing and making you laugh at just the right time, in just the right light, to make you look and feel awesome.
Get in touch today to check availability for your special day.