As a wedding color consultant, I’ve helped countless couples create their dream wedding palettes. Summer weddings hold a special place in my heart – there’s something magical about how the season’s natural vibrancy enhances every color choice. Let me share my insights on the most stunning summer wedding color combinations that will make your celebration unforgettable.
1. Coral and Turquoise: A Tropical Paradise
Nothing says summer quite like this vibrant duo. I recently designed a beachfront wedding where coral charm peonies paired with turquoise accents created an absolutely breathtaking atmosphere. The combination evokes pristine beaches and tropical waters, perfect for both destination weddings and local celebrations.
Key Elements:
- Coral charm peonies and garden roses
- Turquoise bridesmaids dresses
- Sand-colored linens
- White accent pieces
2. Sage Green and Blush: Nature’s Whisper
I’ve fallen in love with this combination after designing an enchanting garden wedding last summer. The soft sage green brings a natural, organic feel while blush adds a romantic touch that photographs beautifully.
Styling Tips:
- Eucalyptus and olive branch garlands
- Blush garden roses and ranunculus
- Sage green table runners
- Pearl and rose gold accents
3. Yellow and Lavender: Mediterranean Dreams
This unexpected pairing has become one of my favorites. At a recent vineyard wedding, we combined fields of lavender with subtle yellow accents to create a Provence-inspired celebration that left guests speechless.
Perfect Pairings:
- Fresh lavender sprigs at place settings
- Pale yellow roses
- Purple wildflowers
- White and cream accents
4. Navy and Peach: Classic Summer Elegance
I’ve seen this combination work wonders for both formal and casual summer weddings. The depth of navy anchors the softness of peach, creating a sophisticated yet seasonally appropriate palette.
Styling Elements:
- Navy blue suits
- Peach garden roses
- Gold accents
- White hydrangeas
5. Mint and Coral: Fresh and Vibrant
This refreshing combination reminds me of summer sorbet. I recently used it for a poolside wedding, and the results were spectacular. The mint keeps things cool while coral adds that perfect pop of warmth.
Design Details:
- Mint bridesmaids dresses
- Coral charm peonies
- White accent flowers
- Silver metallic details
6. White and Gold: Timeless Summer Sophistication
While this might seem simple, I’ve found that white and gold create an incredibly elegant summer palette. The key is in the layering and textures.
Styling Suggestions:
- White peonies and roses
- Gold charger plates
- Crystal accents
- Ivory linens
7. Dusty Blue and Blush: Summer Sunset
This combination captures the essence of summer evening skies. I used this palette for a sunset beach wedding, and the colors perfectly complemented the natural backdrop.
Key Components:
- Dusty blue table linens
- Blush roses and dahlias
- Silver accents
- White hydrangeas
8. Emerald and Pink: Tropical Elegance
This bold combination has become increasingly popular in my recent summer weddings. The deep emerald provides a sophisticated base while pink adds playful summer charm.
Styling Elements:
- Emerald velvet details
- Pink garden roses
- Monstera leaves
- Gold accents
9. Purple and Silver: Twilight Romance
For evening summer weddings, I often recommend this magical combination. It creates an enchanting atmosphere as day transitions to night.
Design Details:
- Purple dahlias and lisianthus
- Silver mercury glass
- Crystal chandeliers
- White accent flowers
10. Tangerine and Pink: Sunset Celebration
This vibrant combination captures the energy of summer perfectly. I recently used it for a sunset garden wedding, and the results were absolutely stunning.
Perfect Pairings:
- Tangerine roses
- Pink peonies
- Gold accents
- Green foliage
Color Combination Chart
| Color Palette | Best Venue Types | Time of Day | Flower Suggestions | Complementary Accents |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Coral & Turquoise | Beach, Garden | Morning/Afternoon | Coral Charm Peonies, White Roses | Gold, Natural Wood |
| Sage & Blush | Garden, Vineyard | All Day | Garden Roses, Eucalyptus | Pearl, Rose Gold |
| Yellow & Lavender | Country, Vineyard | Morning/Afternoon | Lavender, Yellow Roses | White, Silver |
| Navy & Peach | Ballroom, Garden | Evening | Peach Roses, White Hydrangeas | Gold, Crystal |
| Mint & Coral | Garden, Poolside | Morning/Afternoon | Coral Peonies, White Lilies | Silver, Pearl |
| White & Gold | Ballroom, Beach | Evening | White Peonies, Orchids | Crystal, Pearl |
| Dusty Blue & Blush | Beach, Garden | Sunset | Roses, Hydrangeas | Silver, Crystal |
| Emerald & Pink | Garden, Indoor | All Day | Pink Roses, Tropical Leaves | Gold, Bronze |
| Purple & Silver | Ballroom, Garden | Evening | Purple Dahlias, White Roses | Crystal, Pearl |
| Tangerine & Pink | Garden, Rooftop | Sunset | Mixed Citrus Tones, Peonies | Gold, Copper |
Summer Wedding Color FAQs
Q: How do I ensure my colors won’t look too bright in photos?
A: I always recommend balancing bright colors with neutrals and ensuring your photographer knows your palette in advance. Natural light photography tends to soften bright colors beautifully.
Q: What colors work best for an outdoor summer wedding?
A: From my experience, colors that complement nature work wonderfully – sage green, dusty blue, and soft coral are excellent choices. They photograph beautifully and won’t compete with the natural surroundings.
Q: How many colors should I include in my wedding palette?
A: I typically recommend choosing 2-3 main colors and 1-2 accent colors. This creates enough visual interest without overwhelming the space.
Q: Should my bridesmaids’ dresses match my exact color palette?
A: I usually suggest choosing a more muted version of your accent color for bridesmaids’ dresses. This ensures they complement rather than compete with your overall design.
Q: How can I incorporate my colors without making everything match exactly?
A: I love using different shades and tones within your chosen palette. For example, if you’re using coral, incorporate everything from soft peach to bright coral in different elements.
Summer Wedding Serving Suggestions
For a refreshing summer celebration, I recommend:
- Signature mocktails in your wedding colors
- Fruit-infused water stations
- Frozen dessert bars
- Light, seasonal appetizers
- Colorful macarons matching your palette
- Fresh fruit displays
- Floral ice cubes
- Seasonal sorbets
Remember, your wedding colors should reflect your personality while complementing the season. Whether you choose bold and bright or soft and subtle, these summer palettes can be adapted to create your perfect celebration.