Planning for a beach or outdoor wedding? You’re in for a treat today Dotties, but styling for the elements is key! Today on Polka Dot Wisdom, the wonderful Vanessa of The Wedding Creators shares her expert tips and trend-savvy advice to help you create a stunning, sun-smart celebration that looks incredible and keeps everyone cool and comfortable. Here are the best outdoor wedding styling trends that beat the heat. 

Photography: The Evoke Company | Planner: The Wedding Creators | Furniture Rental: SOCO Event Hire | Florist: The Flower Pursuit

There’s nothing quite like the magic of a beach or outdoor wedding – the golden sunlight, the soft ocean breeze, and that laid-back, barefoot-in-the-sand romance. But when planning a wedding under the sun, it’s essential to blend style with practicality, ensuring that your setup not only looks beautiful but also keeps guests comfortable. From lightweight décor choices to heat-friendly florals and smart seating solutions, we’re diving into the latest styling trends that will have your warm-weather wedding feeling effortless, elegant, and oh-so-dreamy!

Photography: The Evoke Company | Planner: The Wedding Creators | Furniture Rental: SOCO Event Hire | Florist: The Flower Pursuit

1. Breezy and Beautiful Ceremony Setups

With beachfront breezes and sun-drenched gardens, traditional heavy décor isn’t always your best friend. Instead, opt for lightweight and wind-resistant ceremony setups that are both practical and stunning.

Trending now:

  • Minimalist bamboo or wooden arches – sleek, natural materials blend seamlessly with outdoor landscapes.
  • Asymmetrical floral installations – rather than a full arch, consider ground arrangements or half-circle floral pieces that are sturdy in the wind. Tip/ make sure to bring sand bags, star pickets or similar to secure your arrangements/arbour to prevent any wind issues!
  • Rattan or cane back chairs – stylish, lightweight, and won’t absorb heat like metal chairs.
  • Shaded seating areas – consider fabric-draped arbours or white parasols for guest comfort. If close to set up consider large umbrellas to cover the aisle seating.
  • Opt for summer friendly florals. Not all flowers hold up well in warm climates! Opt for heat-resistant blooms that stay fresh throughout the day or consider faux or dried flowers too

Photography: The Evoke Company | Planner: The Wedding Creators | Furniture Rental: SOCO Event Hire | Florist: The Flower Pursuit

Pro tip: Ditch the aisle runner (it’s a tripping hazard in the sand) and instead go for petals scattered!

Photography: The Evoke Company | Planner: The Wedding Creators | Furniture Rental: SOCO Event Hire | Florist: The Flower Pursuit

2. Cool and Comfortable Reception Styling

When styling a warm-weather reception, it’s all about creating a relaxed atmosphere with practical styling choices that keep guests comfortable.

Styling must haves are:

  • Linen or gauzy fabrics – lightweight table runners and draping create a soft, romantic look without trapping heat.
  • Natural timber tables – skip the heavy tablecloths and embrace wooden textures for an organic feel.
  • Woven chargers and textured glassware – rattan placemats and coloured glass add warmth without bulk.
  • Open air layouts – arrange lounges and cocktail seating under shaded areas to encourage movement and mingling (or why not have a full cocktail/canapé style wedding rather then a formal sit down style!)

Keep your guests cool with the following:

  • Set up a hydration station with fruit-infused water and iced drinks.
  • Offer handheld fans or shade parasols to your guests
  • Consider hiring a gelato bike or similar as a post-ceremony treat!

Photography: The Evoke Company | Planner: The Wedding Creators | Furniture Rental: SOCO Event Hire | Florist: The Flower Pursuit

4. Dreamy Lighting and Evening Ambience

As the sun sets, the right lighting transforms an outdoor wedding into a magical wonderland.

Trending lighting choices:

  • Fairy or festoon lights – draped between trees or around marquees for a twinkling effect.
  • Lanterns and LED candles – wind-proof and elegant for pathways or table centrepieces.

Bonus tip: Create a chill-out lounge with soft rugs, cushions, and floor seating to encourage guests to unwind under the stars!

Photography: The Evoke Company | Planner: The Wedding Creators | Furniture Rental: SOCO Event Hire | Florist: The Flower Pursuit

5. Sustainable and Eco-Friendly Styling Choices

Outdoor weddings are a perfect opportunity to embrace sustainability with eco-conscious styling elements.

Trending now:

  • Compostable or reusable dinnerware – bamboo plates, coconut bowls, or vintage glassware.
  • Dried palms and grasses – instead of fresh florals, go for a textured, long-lasting arrangement.
  • Eco-friendly confetti – swap plastic confetti for dried petals, herbs, or biodegradable paper.
  • Use potted plants or greenery-heavy arrangements for a lush, natural vibe.
  • Repurpose ceremony florals at the reception for a sustainable, cost-effective approach

Photography: The Evoke Company | Planner: The Wedding Creators | Furniture Rental: SOCO Event Hire | Florist: The Flower Pursuit

When styling your beach or outdoor wedding, the key is to create a space that’s beautiful yet practical. Choose breathable fabrics, sturdy décor, and heat-resistant florals to keep your setup looking flawless all day long. Add in some comfort-focused touches, like shaded seating and a cooling station, and your guests will thank you!

So, whether you’re saying “I do” barefoot on the sand or under the stars in a garden marquee, these styling trends will make your outdoor wedding a breezy, picture-perfect dream!

About The Wedding Creators: At The Wedding Creators, our team is able to offer a comprehensive approach to your wedding by having everything in-house! We can cover all your styling, hiring, planning, coordination, setup, and floral needs. We can assist from the beginning with styling concept and design through to set up, hiring goodies, florals, and then execution on the wedding day.