10 Essential Tips for Planning a Dream Summer Wedding in South Wales for 2025 or 2026!
Why Summer Is the Most Popular Season for Weddings
Summer is the season of love, and it's no surprise that it remains the most popular time for couples to tie the knot. With longer days, warmer temperatures (if we can be so lucky), and the vibrant energy of the outdoors, summer weddings offer an unparalleled backdrop for weddings. In South Wales, the stunning landscapes—from rolling hills to the picturesque coastline—create the perfect canvas for a dream summer wedding.
Whether you're dreaming of a grand estate (Cefn Tilla!) or an intimate garden setting (like Gileston Manor), planning your summer wedding in South Wales offers a wide range of options for couples. Let’s dive into the top 10 essential tips to ensure your day is nothing short of perfection.
Location Tips: Stunning Summer Wedding Venues
Finding the perfect venue is the obvious first step in planning your summer wedding. South Wales boasts some truly breathtaking venues, each offering a unique setting for your big day. Here are a few of my top picks:
St Tewdrics House: Known for its elegant outdoor ceremonies, this venue offers incredible gardens and charming views. It’s a favorite for couples like Georgia & Michael, whose summer wedding here featured the most stunning florals by Catherine Gray Florist.
Fairyhill: Nestled in the Gower, this venue offers a magical woodland setting combined with a chic interior. Ideal for couples who want both nature and luxury.
Gellifawr in Pembrokeshire: If you’re looking for a countryside escape, Gellifawr is perfect for a rustic yet romantic vibe. Most couples opt for an entire weekend here, and i’ll be photographing a stunning wedding weekend for my couple Jodie & Jack in 2026 here already, which I am SO excited for.
Cefn Tilla: This stately home provides a historic feel with vast gardens, great for outdoor receptions and scenic photos. The bridal suite here is the absolute most perfect getting ready room I have EVER seen. They even have specific hooks for your dress to go, and it’s honestly just a photographers dream. The sunset here is also always chefs kiss.
Sant Ffraed House: With breathtaking views of the Usk Valley, this venue offers modern luxury paired with natural beauty. You really do get the best treatment here, the staff could not do enough for you, and though pricey, it truly is worth it.
When selecting your venue, consider how it will look in the summer months and whether it provides a great backdrop for your photos. Look for venues with expansive outdoor spaces and scenic vistas that will make your photos stand out. If you love greens, pick somewhere with a lot of grass, greenery and plants. But, if that’s not something you love the look of, pick a stately home type venue.
2. Tips for Finding Scenic Backdrops for Photos
South Wales is renowned for its natural beauty, so make sure your venue offers plenty of photo-worthy spots. If you're having your wedding at a venue like St Tewdrics or Gileston Manor, you’ll have the advantage of beautiful gardens, lush greenery, and architectural features that elevate your photos.
For those wanting more adventure, consider taking a few portraits at nearby natural landmarks, such as the Gower Peninsula or the Brecon Beacons. You can also use the surrounding countryside for wide, cinematic shots—perfect for capturing the grandeur of your day.
3. Weather Preparedness: Planning for the Unpredictable British Summer Weather
Even though summer is prime wedding season, it’s still crucial to plan for all weather possibilities. In South Wales, the weather can be unpredictable, so here’s how to stay prepared:
Have a Rain Backup Plan: Consider renting a clear marquee so you can still enjoy the views, even if the rain decides to show up. Venues like Sant Ffraed House offer flexible outdoor and indoor options, so you’re covered.
Use Stylish Umbrellas: If you’re committed to an outdoor ceremony, prepare with stylish umbrellas for you and your guests. Try to keep to clear ones though, as these are the best for photos.
Provide Cosy Extras: Offer blankets or shawls for guests in case the evening turns chilly, and make sure you have a backup indoor reception option if necessary. Fire pits are sometimes an option as well.
4. Managing Heat During Outdoor Ceremonies and Receptions
While rain is one concern, the summer heat can also be challenging to manage. Here’s how to keep everyone cool:
Shade: Set up canopies or parasols for your ceremony seating area. This not only protects guests from the sun but adds an elegant touch.
Refreshments: Serve refreshing, seasonal drinks like fruit-infused water, lemonade, or cocktails before the ceremony to keep guests hydrated. You could even have an ice cream stand!
Light Attire: Encourage guests to dress in light, breathable fabrics, and opt for airy, flowy bridal gowns and suits for you and your bridal party.
5. Optimising the Summer Light for Stunning Photos
Summer weddings offer the advantage of long daylight hours, which are perfect for getting incredible wedding photos! Make the most of the natural light by scheduling your key moments strategically:
Golden Hour: Plan your couple’s portraits for golden hour, typically just before sunset. The soft, warm light will give your photos a dreamy glow, especially if you’re at a venue like Fairyhill. And, if you are at Fairyhill, we can head to Worm’s Head, to get some gorgeous sunset photos with the sea!
Twilight Shots: For a more intimate vibe, take twilight or evening shots with soft lighting like fairy lights or lanterns in the background. These always look gorgeous.
By working closely with your photographer (me!), you can ensure that every moment is beautifully captured in the best light.
6. Making the Most of Vibrant Summer Colours in Photos
Summer weddings are all about colour—think bold florals, vibrant greenery, and clear blue skies (mehhhh). Use the season’s natural palette to enhance your photos. Some suggestions:
Floral Arrangements: Incorporate seasonal blooms like roses, peonies, and wildflowers, which will look fresh and vibrant in your photos.
Outdoor Settings: If you’re at a venue like Gellifawr, the countryside setting will naturally add rich greens and blues to your color scheme.
Creative Decor: Use colorful decor elements such as bright table settings (Abbie Leigh can help with some edgy styling!)or statement floral arches to add pops of color to your wedding photos.
7. Guest Comfort: Tips for Keeping Guests Cool and Comfortable
No matter how stunning the setting, your guests' (and all day suppliers…) comfort is kind of essential. Here are some tips to ensure they enjoy the day:
Fans & Parasols: Provide hand-held fans and parasols for shade during outdoor ceremonies. These can be a great favour, or just an extra! You can even personalise them.
Seasonal Refreshments: Hire Pickled Pumpkin Catering to serve refreshing summer dishes that will keep guests happy, or if you want a sweet treat, get Joe’s to serve up some ice cream.
Water Stations: Have self-serve water stations around the venue to encourage hydration.
Light Attire: Suggest guests wear lighter clothing in your invitations, and if possible, provide shaded areas or cool spots at your reception.
8. Vendor Recommendations for a Dream Summer Wedding
Having the right vendors can make or break your day. Here are some of my top South Wales vendors who can help bring your summer wedding vision to life:
Taylor Louise Design for elegant, summery stationery.
Abbie Leigh Event’s & Styling for the most funky styling.
Save the Date Socials to capture the magic and create content for your social media.
Sass Surprise Singers for a fun twist with singing waiters that your guests will love.
Jeris for live music to set the perfect summer mood.
Adam Reeves to entertain your guests with mind-blowing magic.
Pickled Pumpkin Catering to serve seasonal, delicious dishes.
Honey & Heather (me!!!) for your natural, but still gory & editorial, wedding photography.
9. Incorporating Seasonal Elements into Your Wedding
Summer in South Wales offers plenty of opportunities to incorporate seasonal elements:
Floral Centerpieces: Use seasonal blooms like sunflowers or roses for your table decor.
Outdoor Games: Keep your guests entertained with lawn games such as croquet or giant Jenga.
Al Fresco Dining: Plan for outdoor dining under the stars, perhaps in the gardens of Cefn Tilla or Gileston.
10. Considerations for an Outdoor Evening Reception
As the sun sets, the evening will cool, providing the perfect opportunity for a relaxed outdoor reception. To enhance the atmosphere:
String Lights & Candles: Add soft lighting with fairy lights or lanterns to create a cozy ambiance.
Fire Pits: If your venue allows, set up fire pits for guests to gather around and toast marshmallows.
Live Music: Hire a band like the incredible Jeris to keep the evening lively.
Planning a summer wedding in South Wales gives you the perfect mix of natural beauty, vibrant colors, and long daylight hours. Whether you're drawn to coastal venues like Fairyhill or countryside estates like New House Country Hotel, each location offers something special. By following these tips, you’ll be well on your way to creating a dream 2025 or 2026 summer wedding that your guests will remember for years to come.