One of our favorite parts of wedding planning is helping our couples choose their theme and select all of the details. Your selection of visual elements play a huge role in your wedding decor. And oftentimes, these details can add up to be a large part of your wedding day budget. Using something unexpected and affordable such as citrus fruit can not only add pops of summer color to your wedding palette but is affordable and sustainable. And boy, do we love sustainable wedding swaps! So, look no further, if you’re looking for an affordable way to make a statement with your decor for your summer wedding, you’re going to want to stop and read.

01: Citrus Inspired Color Palettes

When we think of citrus we think of fresh color with a hint of fun. Mixing neutrals with pops of citrus hues for accents is a fun way to add a fresh element to your wedding day. Whether you choose to tie in citrus colors in your linens, candles, or additional tablescape elements, we love the idea of creating a citrus color scheme. And no, if you opt for a citrus color scheme, your wedding doesn’t have to scream Florida oranges. Think about adding different depths and shades of colors to create dimension and really allow your pops of color to shine. 

02: Citrus as Decor 

Summer weddings can incorporate citrus as a fresh twist on your table decorations and centerpieces. Fruit such as oranges, limes, grapefruit, and lemon can be used to create your table centerpieces. If you’re wanting to use the fruit and repurpose it post wedding reception, you can use full pieces of fruit with cut flowers, such as a magnolia bloom, and contrasting greenery as a table garland. You can use cut citrus to line your floral arrangement vases or even your floating candle centerpieces. Whether you choose to use the whole fruit or slices, fresh citrus is budget friendly and adds hints of color throughout your table decor. 

03: Beat the Heat with a Citrus Cocktail

If your wedding is outside and you plan on having your guests dance the night away under the stars, you’ll want to ensure that you have plenty of refreshments for your guests. If you’re hosting a bar, we encourage you to keep your cocktails fresh and even add hints of citrus throughout your cocktails or as a garnish. Your guests will love a fresh sparkling limoncello cocktail, or a classic lime moscow mule. 

04: Citrus-Inspired Escort Cards

Swap out traditional escort cards and opt for something sustainable and fresh, like citrus escort cards. You can use real citrus and add names using cardstock or you can order, or bust out your cricut and create citrus visuals. Not only is this a fun way to incorporate the citrus theme, but it can also be an affordable option.

05: Decorate with Citrus Trees

Although this is a little bit higher up on the budget scale, using citrus trees such as lemon and orange, can be a fun way to brighten up any ceremony or reception space. Citrus trees can be potted in decorative pots that can line your ceremony aisle, add a fresh pop of color to your altar space, or become decorative touches to your reception table centerpiece. The best part of this idea is that you can plant these in your yard or send them with your guests as a parting gift. 

06: Create a Citrus Infused Water Station 

Summer can bring some harsh UV rays and heat for not only your wedding party but your guests. One of our biggest concerns during summer weddings is keeping your guests cool and comfortable. You will want to ensure that your guests stay hydrated with some much needed H20. Adding a water station is essential for any couple opting to hold their nuptials outside. Add in some citrus for a fresh and flavorful twist that won’t bust the budget, but will keep your guests hydrated throughout the day. 

07: Add a Fresh Twist to your Menu 

When it comes to creating a menu with your caterer, for summer weddings, you want to keep your food choices light and fresh. Savory, heavy meals can leave your guests feeling sluggish, especially during the hot heat. There are so many delicious citrus recipes that will not only leave your guests wanting more, but give them a boost of vitamin C. Add a punchy citrus vinaigrette to your salad, or opt for something fresh like ceviche. Be sure to check with your caterer on some fresh summer options to add to your menu. 

Citrus is a versatile touch that you can add to your wedding day. It’s an affordable, sustainable option that can be used in your drinks, food, color scheme, and even your decor! It is the perfect option for our summer brides that are wanting a fresh twist to their wedding day. These fruits are the perfect pop of color to brighten up any space and will leave a cheerful effect throughout your big day. 

Lori Losee is the owner of Elegant Affairs, a Tacoma Wedding Planner with over 18 years of experience. We create awe-inspiring experiences—Events filled with meaning and refined elegance. Behind the scenes, our experienced team collaborates on each stage of the process, executing your vision and a wedding, celebration, or corporate event that is unique to you.