Experience with outdoor spaces in a Phoenix summer? Advice extra welcome ☺️

Will most guests be from the Phoenix area? If so, the misters and shade should accommodate them fine. What time of day would the cocktail hour be? the temperature may not be so bad. But if they can also choose to be indoors at that time, the mix of outdoor and indoor space would be nice. Will you also suggest attire suitable for the early Phoenix summer?

I didn't have my wedding in Phoenix, but I did have it in Tucson during the summer. I would be slightly cautious of misters as they can make your makeup run. My venue had a courtyard and a cantina room guests could go do during the cocktail hour. While my husband and I did not have canopies, they are always a good option, especially since the monsoon rains can come down. Just be sure that you have the canopy or shade secured TIGHTLY if in case the wind picks up. A strong breeze almost took my veil! I also recommend hand fans. You can opt for a more "Spanish style fan" or one made from palm fronds. The added benefit to this is that they won't make a buzzing sound if you have a videographer that is trying to take wedding videos.

Having a gelato truck or a beer donkey (Desert Beer Burros was my vendor) to pass out drinks or treats to keep guests cool, and have the donkeys be a photo op keeps guests mind off of the heat.

I’d be more than slightly cautious at that time of year in Phoenix. People will be dressed for a wedding and many guests will simply not to want to stand under or nearby a mister and tenting may not be enough. If you are already committed to this venue I think the best you can do is play it by ear. I’d want a good alternative to the outdoors if it’s hot.

The desert has a very unique dry heat where even under a tent, in the shade, anywhere outdoors while the sun is still out, it feels like you are standing in a 300 degree oven, even when it’s only 80-100. Misters do nothing except cause makeup to run and hair to fall limp. Tents do nothing to get rid of that heat because you are still in the middle of it. Formal clothing is not breathable or compatible with extreme hot temperatures. Either way, you will have to offer tons of water or other non dehydrating non alcoholic beverages and provide sandalwood fans that won’t do the same damage to hair and makeup as misters, but won’t stop anyone from sweating. Your options are move everything inside or wait until sunset to start the ceremony.


Bakers and caterers won’t serve outdoors due to the heat either. Even in the shade with misters.