Dreaming of a summer wedding with the elegance of an indoor space and the charm of the great outdoors? A tented wedding is your perfect solution. But while a tent gives you flexibility and shelter, styling it for summer comes with its own unique considerations—from beating the heat to keeping it beautiful.
We’ve gathered expert-approved tips and real-world insights on how to style a summer tent wedding that’s both stunning and guest-friendly.
Choose the Right Tent for Your Venue and Vision
First things first: the type of tent matters.
- Pole tents are romantic and sweeping but need to be staked into the ground—ideal for grassy areas.
- Frame tents are more versatile and can be placed on patios or other hard surfaces.
- Sailcloth tents are perfect for summer weddings, offering a light, airy, coastal feel with natural fabric that glows beautifully at sunset.
Pro Tip: Go for a clear-top tent if you want to let in natural light—but make sure you have adequate shading for midday events to avoid overheating.
Courtesy of Colourful Summer Garden Wedding
Work With the Weather, Not Against It
Tents can provide shade, but they trap heat easily. Here’s how to plan for comfort:
- Rent portable fans or evaporative coolers, especially for enclosed tents.
- Install tent liners or draping to soften the heat and add elegance.
- Create open sides for airflow unless you expect heavy rain.
- Time your ceremony for late afternoon or early evening to avoid peak heat hours.
Pro Tip: Provide guests with parasols, personal fans, or cold towel stations as thoughtful summer extras.
Courtesy of Western Boho Wedding in Nordegg
Choose a Colour Palette That Complements the Season
Think breezy, light, and elegant. Summer palettes that always work in tents include:
- Dusty blue, blush, and ivory
- Sage green and peach
- Lavender and cream
- Citrus brights (for something more playful!)
Florals can elevate the whole look—opt for seasonal blooms like dahlias, garden roses, and zinnias that can stand up to the heat.
Pro Tip: Incorporate natural textures like rattan chargers, wooden tables, linen runners, and greenery to ground the airy summer vibe.
Courtesy of Rustic Woodland Romance
Light it Up (the Right Way)
Good lighting transforms a tented space once the sun sets.
- Layer lighting: Combine soft string lights, chandeliers, uplighting, and lanterns for a romantic atmosphere.
- Add dimmers so you can shift the mood from dinner to dancing.
- Use LED candles for a soft glow without the fire hazard in the heat.
Pro Tip: Use bistro lights strung from pole to pole for a starry-sky effect, especially if your tent is open-sided.
Courtesy of Soulmates in Flight: A Journey of Love
Build Cozy, Instagram-Worthy Lounge Areas
Transform a portion of the tent into a relaxed lounge area with couches, rugs, and poufs. These spaces:
- Give guests a break from the dance floor
- Double as gorgeous photo spots
- Add depth and dimension to the layout
Pro Tip: Place lounges near open sides or fans for maximum comfort.
Courtesy of A Vibrant Pink Disco Wedding
Don’t Forget the Flooring
Grass underfoot may seem charming—until heels start sinking and humidity kicks in. Flooring options include:
- Hardwood flooring or rug overlays to keep things polished
- Dancing platforms for the reception area
- For a budget-friendly option: layered outdoor rugs to create texture and define spaces
Pro Tip: If you’re concerned about summer rain, flooring is a smart way to keep your day mess-free.
Courtesy of A Classic and Whimsical Winery Wedding
Add a WOW Factor
Want to take your tented wedding from beautiful to unforgettable? Add one (or more) of these:
- Statement floral installation above the head table
- Hanging greenery chandelier
- Colourful ceiling drape with fairy lights
- Live greenery wall as a ceremony or photo backdrop
Pro Tip: Your ceiling is your fifth wall—don’t waste it!
Courtesy of Passion, Duty, and Everlasting Love
Final Thoughts
A summer tent wedding offers the best of both worlds: the natural beauty of the outdoors and the structure to create a custom-designed space. With thoughtful styling and a few pro-backed decisions, your tent can become a dreamy, cool, and comfortable celebration zone your guests will never forget.
Still unsure where to start? Partnering with a seasoned wedding planner or tent rental specialist can make all the difference when bringing your summer vision to life.
