Elegant Summer Wedding Color Palettes (and How to Actually Use Them Without Getting Overwhelmed)
Hey bride-to-be 👋
Let’s talk about one of the most exciting (and let’s be honest… slightly stressful) parts of planning your wedding: choosing your color palette.
I don’t know about you, but when I got engaged, my Pinterest board quickly turned into a chaotic mix of rust, mauve, cream, navy, terracotta, gold, sage, dusty rose... you name it. I wanted everything. But when it came down to choosing the actual colors for the day? Cue the second-guessing.
So if you're planning a summer wedding and feel like your brain is bouncing between “romantic garden” and “sunset in Tuscany,” this post is for you. Let’s simplify your summer wedding palette—and talk about how to actually use those colors to build a wedding that looks stunning and feels totally you.
First up: Our Favorite Elegant Summer Wedding Palette
Here’s a color combo that works for so many summer styles—backyard, beach, vineyard, even elopements—and manages to be timeless and trendy:
- Cream & Sugar (soft and romantic)
- Crescent Moon (cool-toned blue/grey)
- Beautiful Blush (everyone’s favorite neutral pink)
- Scarlet Letter (a bold touch—think wine or terra cotta)
- The Man (warm mustard or marigold)
- Midnight Snack (navy for grounding everything)
These tones can lean earthy, romantic, or elevated depending on how you style them. And they’re SO good together, no matter the vibe of your venue.
How to Actually Use Your Palette (Without Overthinking It)
So you’ve chosen your colors—yay! But now what? Here’s how to make them work in real life (not just on your inspo board):
1. Start with Your Ceremony + Reception Decor
Your palette doesn’t have to go everywhere, but bringing it into your florals, napkins, signage, or table linens can make everything feel intentional.
If you're doing a laid-back outdoor celebration, the Backyard Wedding Planner will help you organize everything from seating layouts to setup logistics—especially if you’re DIY-ing with friends and fam.
2. Use Color to Style Your Wedding Party (Without Being Too Matchy)
Gone are the days of everyone in the exact same dress. Choose one anchor color (like blush or navy), and let your girls pick different shades or textures within that range. The result? Cohesive and comfortable.
✨ Bonus tip: Add the color palette to your Wedding Day Binder so your coordinator or day-of helper knows exactly what to expect.
3. Build Your Stationery & Signage Around the Palette
This is one of the easiest ways to make your colors pop! Whether it’s your invitations, welcome sign, or menus—keeping your palette in mind helps you avoid clashing design choices later.
P.S. If you’re planning a wedding somewhere sunny and far from home, check out the Destination Wedding Planner for timeline templates, vendor checklists, and packing lists that are ACTUALLY helpful.
Want to Make Sure Your Photos Look as Dreamy as Your Mood Board?
Girl, I got you. Once your colors and vibe are locked in, it’s time to tell your photographer exactly what you want captured. Otherwise, you might miss a few of the dreamy little moments (like your tablescape before guests sit, or your bouquet flat lay).
Use the Wedding Shot List Template to map out every detail—group shots, decor, candids, and even getting ready moments. It’s editable, super thorough, and you can share it with your photographer before the big day.
Final Thoughts (From One Organized Bride to Another)
Choosing a summer wedding palette shouldn’t make you want to scream into your veil. The truth is, your colors are just one part of a much bigger (and more magical) day. If they make you feel happy, grounded, and in love? You’re doing it right.
And if you're someone who thrives on structure (hi, same), you’ll LOVE having a go-to planner to make sure your big day flows as beautifully as it looks. Start with something like the Backyard Wedding Planner or go all-in with a binder that covers everything from schedules to seat maps.
You’re building a wedding day that’s so much more than Pinterest-perfect—it’s yours. Let’s make it easy, organized, and absolutely stunning.
