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When it comes to choosing a creative wedding location, you can’t really beat the desert. Before planning your vows, take a look at these 12 mistakes you definitely want to skip.
Planning it for summer.
Desert temperatures are intense in the middle of the summer, even in the evenings, says Emily Supiot of Cozy Clicks Photography in Phoenix, Arizona. "If the wedding is outside, temperatures can be unbearable. That is also the season for scorpions and snakes!"
Picking the wrong flowers.
The biggest mistake would be to utilize flowers that are sensitive to heat such as peonies, dahlias and/or ranunculus, says Caroline Bailly of L’Atelier Rouge. Instead, she recommends going with stems that are heat resistant such as orchids or tropical flowers.
Skipping the backup plan.
In case the temperatures soar or you're surprised with a desert shower, have a backup plan with a tent or ballroom on standby to keep everyone dry and cool, recommends Andi Compton of Now That’s a Party.
Not hydrating.
Especially during the warm weather months, it's important to keep yourself and your guests hydrated, says Compton. “It can be as simple as providing a cooler or two with extra water bottles for during the ceremony or as luxurious as passed drinks during the entire event. This is so appreciated by guests.”
Choosing muted colors.
Deserts present a unique backdrop, and brides need to make this stand out in their photography, says Emma Jane Lewis of Emma Jane Photography. “Brides often pick paler colors for a desert wedding, but pale and pastel colors clash and blend in. Brides should opt for darker, deeper colors which reflect the styles and mood of the desert.”
Making it a formal affair.
It's not uncommon for many desert resort areas to have spring, summer and autumn temperatures that exceed 120 degrees, says Greg Jenkins of Bravo Productions. “To this end, brides who opt for more formal affairs will find themselves and their guests dressing for discomfort. Light weight, cotton and dressy casual should be the attire for an outdoor wedding. If hosted indoors with air conditioning, then that can be taken into consideration. However, even standing outdoors for 10 minutes in intense heat can be miserable--and quite sweaty!”
Not protecting the food.
Keeping food--including the cake--is the hot desert heat is a recipe for disaster. You must have an air-conditioned area where you can keep those goodies until they are ready to be served.
Deserts are usually in a pretty rural area making it hard for guests to find or especially find suitable accommodations nearby, says Miranda Tassi of The Peridot Collective. Deter from any last-minute stress by coordinating these items for guests ahead of time.
Skipping a sound check.
Sound is a mysterious problem in the desert, says Nick Price of TriFocus Media. “Top notch speakers will be a necessity, especially if the wind picks up which makes it even harder to hear those sentimental speeches and dance music.”
Wearing stilettos.
Be selective about the shoes you choose to wear, says Price. “The dirt can be sandy, making it close to impossible to elegantly walk in stilettos. This is something you might want to warn your guests of as well. Most desert venues will require quite a bit of walking because everything in the desert is spread out--rolling an ankle is a sure way to ruin your special day.”
Thinking it never gets cold.
Most people only think about the desert heat, but at certain times of the year, the temperature can change drastically from day to night, says Liz Ise, Chancey Charm Dallas Wedding Planner. When the sun sets on your desert wedding, be sure to have plenty of heat sources, especially if you're planning on an outdoor reception. Think about having blankets or shawls available for the ladies.
