There’s nothing quite like a summer wedding, the sunshine, the love in the air, and the unforgettable outdoor vibes. But let’s be real: the heat can be a challenge. That’s where a well-thought-out bar setup becomes the MVP of your big day. Whether you're planning a July or August soirée or eyeing early fall, here are our top tips for keeping guests cool, refreshed, and smiling from “I do” to the last dance.
1. Lean Into Light & Refreshing Drink Options:
Summer is the season of crisp, fruity, and thirst-quenching drinks. Work with your bartending team to craft a menu that embraces seasonal ingredients and refreshing flavors. A few crowd-pleasing favorites include:
- Signature spritzers with fresh herbs like mint or basil
- Citrus-forward cocktails like mojitos, palomas, or lemon drop martinis
- Chilled local beer and hard seltzers on tap
- Mocktails & infused waters for guests skipping the booze
Pro tip: Naming your signature cocktails after your pets, favorite places, or shared memories adds a personal touch and makes them easy for guests to remember (and reorder!).
2. Prioritize Shade for Your Bar Setup:
Where you place your bar matters, especially when the sun’s in full force. We always recommend setting up in a shaded spot, whether it's under a tree, inside a tent, or near a structure that offers cover throughout the day. Shade doesn’t just keep your drinks cool, it keeps your guests happier, longer.
The best part? We usually bring our own umbrella to help create that breezy, shaded setup. And if you’re working with a wide-open space, adding things like tall cocktail tables with umbrellas, outdoor rugs, or misting fans nearby can make the bar area even more inviting.
Pro insight from the pros:
Kelsie Kaesbauer of Tap Truck USA recently shared her summer wedding expertise with California Wedding Day in their most recent article, "Spotlight: Beat the Heat This Summer.":
“We bring pre-chilled kegs, extra ice, and insulated lines to make sure every pour, from craft beer to cold brew, stays refreshing—even in the heat. We also position our vintage trucks in shaded or breezy areas whenever possible to keep guests comfortable and equipment running smoothly. Plus, we love customizing seasonal menus with summer-ready options like citrusy brews, sparkling lemonades, mocktails, or iced cocktails that help everyone cool down and celebrate in style.”
3. Add a Hydration Station:
Nothing says “we’ve got you covered” like a well-stocked hydration station. We can set up drink dispensers filled with fruit-infused water—like lemon-cucumber, strawberry-mint, or orange-lavender—as well as summertime classics like fresh lemonade. It’s a simple way to keep everyone hydrated, cool, and feeling their best from the ceremony to the send-off.
Want to make it stand out? Style your hydration station with vintage glassware, fresh florals, and custom signage that ties into the rest of your décor. It’s a functional feature that doubles as a charming detail your guests will appreciate (and remember).
4. Cool-Down Touches That Guests Will Love:
Take your summer bar setup to the next level with little extras that make a big impact. A few warm-weather favorites we’ve seen couples include:
- Custom koozies to keep drinks cool (and double as cute favors)
- Handheld fans or misting stations near the bar to offer guests a quick cool-down
- Cold brew or iced coffee on tap for a post-dinner energy boost
- Personalized drink stirrers or garnish stations for a fun, interactive element
These thoughtful additions help create a guest experience that feels intentional, elevated, and perfect for the season.
Plan Ahead for Late Summer & Fall Weddings:
If you’re planning a wedding later this summer or heading into the fall season, now’s the time to lock in your mobile bar. Tap Truck USA brings a one-of-a-kind experience that’s equal parts stylish and stress-free. From vintage bar trucks and customizable taps to expert bartending and local brews, we’ve got everything you need to keep your big day flowing, literally.