Summer is quickly coming to a close, and with it the sunshine and lovely beach weddings. Let’s end the summer by gathering some summery inspiration before the fall trends take over the blogosphere.

Let’s start with the setting. The perfect summer wedding will make the most of the lingering heat and take place outdoors. Consider having your soiree at a carnival (or simply rent a carousel), a gorgeous meadow for a summer picnic theme, or a lovely beach or poolside affair.

{Images from: Overexposed, Rock ‘n Roll Bride, Rock ‘n Roll Bride, 100 Layer Cake, Samuel Lippke Photography, Rock ‘n Roll Bride}

Your wedding decorations should also be light and summery. For this theme, you should go with colors that are reminiscent of the sunrise– light pinks and oranges, with a touch of red. I love the arch overlooking the green expanse of lawn and the cross. Even the sand used for the unity sand ceremony can be incorporated into the decor.

{Images from: Southern Weddings Magazine, Southern Weddings Magazine, 100 Layer Cake, Flights of Fancy, 100 Layer Cake, Once Wed}

Create a festive mood by hanging flag banners, poms, or lanterns strung up by colorful ribbons from the surrounding trees or rafters. Don’t forget about the evening decor by stringing up some hanging twinkle lights as well.

{Images from: Once Wed, Style Me Pretty, Style Me Pretty, Samuel Lippke Photography}

Get creative with your place cards and escort cards. Use some cork place card holders or add a tag to a pinwheel for a playful touch. Chalkboard spray can be your best friend as witnessed by these adorable mini chalkboard table names. Finally, give your guests some pre-sorted confetti or rose petals within cute favor bags.

{Images from: Southern Weddings Magazine, Flights of Fancy, Style Me Pretty}

For the entertainment, lug a vintage piano out to the yard and hire a live musician to keep you dancing til all hours of the night! During the day, play some lawn games like croquet and set up some board games like chess or checkers for some good old fashioned summer fun.

{Images from: Style Me Pretty, Southern Weddings Magazine}

A summer wedding calls for a signature cocktail– preferably something fruity and refreshing, as well as plenty of fresh fruit, ice cream, and a light appetizer like cheese and crackers.

{Images from: Style Me Pretty, Southern Weddings Magazine, Southern Weddings Magazine, Style Me Pretty, 100 Layer Cake, Style Me Pretty}

Give your guests some parasols to block the heat and don’t forget to use some yourself– they make a great prop for wedding pictures!

{Images from: Style Me Pretty, Rock ‘n Roll Bride}

Flowers are in. let your hair down and pin a dainty flower on your hair (or your gown!). Don’t forget to carry some balloons to match your color scheme!

{Images from: Style Me Pretty, Style Me Pretty, Style Me Pretty, Vintage Glam Blog}

Your dress is one of the most important parts of the day, so be sure to stay cool with a lightweight gown that allows your back to breathe! You might also consider getting a cute embellishment like a giant bow, and finally, be sure to get some strappy sandals to match the summer atmosphere!

{Images from: Style Me Pretty, Boutwell Studio, Once Wed}