Planning a summer wedding in Jackson Hole has its perks! The scenery is beautiful throughout the year, but it really comes alive in the summer time. Here are a few practical ways to prepare for a summer wedding in Jackson Hole!

Use Sunscreen

The sun burns hot in the summer months, but at higher elevations it’s even more prominent. Don’t want to be caught unaware! If you’ve hired a makeup artist, they will likely apply a lightweight sunscreen under your foundation. For the guys, be sure to try out a few different sunscreen options and try to find the one that gives great coverage but isn’t greasy. For all wedding guests and bridal parties, be sure to wear it in the time leading up to your wedding day, as well as on the day of. You don’t want to end up with racoon eye sunburn lines, do you? I’m speaking from experience here!

Extra Hydration

Making sure you’re getting enough hydration is very important. In the weeks leading up to your wedding, a good hydration routine will help your skin’s texture. Jackson Hole, WY is very dry. Once you arrive in Jackson, be sure to get enough liquids in during all your wedding prep activities. Bring lotion along also to keep your hands and other skin soft and supple.

Prepare for a summer wedding – Hot and Cold

While the highs during the summer are toasty, they aren’t comparable to the heat waves you’ll see in the southern states. We also don’t have the humidity! But, the mornings and evenings can still be fairly chilly. And sometimes evening storms roll in. Bring along a dressy layer you can put on in case you need to keep the goose bumps at bay. Or to warm you up after you take a dip in a lake 😉

Provide Shade

When possible, provide shade for your wedding guests, and yourself. This might look very different between a wedding and an elopement, so we’re going to share both! If you’re hosting your celebration at a wedding venue, providing shade is likely already an option. Having an indoor area where guests can escape the heat and sun makes a huge difference. Where an indoor setting isn’t available, providing a large tent is a great alternative.

For personal options, consider bringing an umbrella for shade. It may seem weird, but I’ve had several clients do it. This is especially useful in times where the couple may be walking for longer times in the sun. Couples who are likely to burn more quickly may choose to combine this shade option with sunscreen.

Take Breaks

When the heat is at it’s worst, make sure to take some small breaks. These might be short ones to just grab a cool drink or make a run to the powder room. Or maybe it’s those longer ones between photo locations. For summer elopements, I know I always appreciate the cool air conditioned car ride from one photo spot to another. This is a great time to relax a bit and take a breather!

Expect higher lodging rates

As can be expected in most tourist locations, expect higher lodging rates in the peak summer months. Book your hotel or house rental early for best rates and availability. Sometimes staying in a neighboring town can help decrease costs. Or consider staying in a less expensive lodging option for the majority of your stay, and pick a nicer hotel for the days closest to your wedding.

Smoke from Wildfires

Due to wildfires in neighboring states, smoke in the air can be an issue. Sometimes smoke in the summer months can obscure the mountain views. Of course we hope for the best, but know that it’s a possibility. Ask your photographer for best photo locations if there is smoke and you can’t see the mountains well. We’ll know which locations give you the best chance to have the mountains in your background, or other ideas for stunning pictures if that’s not possible.

Summer weddings in Jackson Hole are phenomenal and the perfect way to celebrate! If you’re thinking about getting married in Jackson Hole, check out our guide on where to start with the planning process. Save this page for those summer wedding day tips to look at again a few weeks before your wedding. Then contact us about photographing your special day!