Summer Wedding with a Lake View
There’s something about a summer wedding by the lake that just feels like a storybook come to life. Warm sunlight dancing on the water, a light breeze through the trees, the sound of birds, and that magical golden hour glow, it’s the kind of setting that doesn’t need much help to feel romantic.
Here at our venue, one of the most loved features is our lake. Couples are drawn to it year after year, especially in the summertime. Whether it’s for the ceremony backdrop, sunset photos, or just the peaceful atmosphere it brings to the whole day, the lake adds a level of serenity and beauty that’s hard to beat.
If you're dreaming of a romantic summer wedding with a lake view, let’s paint a picture of what that could look like and share some planning tips we’ve picked up along the way.
Golden Hour Vows by the Water
Imagine this: rows of wooden chairs set out on the grass, flower petals lining the aisle, and the lake just beyond shimmering under the early evening sun. Your guests are fanning themselves with custom programs, the breeze is just enough to keep things comfortable, and the soundtrack is nature’s own mix of rustling leaves and soft waves.
It’s hard to find a ceremony setting more peaceful or picturesque. The light reflecting off the water adds a soft glow to everything. We always tell our couples that if you time it just right usually about an hour before sunset, you’ll get that dreamy lighting that photographers love and your guests will remember forever.
Photo Ops You’ll Treasure Forever
One of the perks of having a lakefront wedding is the built in photo opportunities. We’ve seen couples walk hand-in-hand along the shoreline, pose on a dock with their reflection in the water, or sneak away in a canoe or rowboat for a private moment and a few gorgeous candids.
In the summer, the greenery is full and lush, which means your wedding album will be full of rich, vibrant color. And if you get lucky with a clear sky? You might even get some dreamy post-ceremony photos with the pink and purple hues of a lakeside sunset.
A Reception Under the Stars
When the sun goes down, that’s when the romance really kicks in. String lights overhead, lanterns glowing along the path, candles flickering on the tables it’s easy to turn your reception into a magical midsummer night.
Some couples choose to host their dinner and dancing outside, right next to the water, while others move into a nearby barn or covered pavilion with views of the lake through open doors. Either way, that lake view never stops being beautiful.
Add in a fire pit with s’mores, some acoustic music, or a late-night swim and it becomes more than just a wedding, it’s an experience.
What to Keep in Mind for a Summer Lake Wedding
Of course, summer by the lake comes with a few things to consider but nothing a little planning can’t fix:
The Heat: Tennessee summers can be toasty, especially in July and August. We recommend later ceremonies (5–6 PM) and offering guests cold drinks, hand fans, and shaded seating.
The Bugs: Where there’s water, there might be bugs. Citronella candles, bug spray stations, and subtle pest control can help keep guests comfortable.
Dress Code Tips: Let your guests know it’ll be outdoors and on grass, so they can dress appropriately (think breathable fabrics and wedge shoes or flats).
Back-Up Plans: Summer storms can roll in fast. Having a covered space or indoor option ready to go will keep the stress levels low if the weather changes.
Why We Love It
There’s a calm, grounded beauty to a lakefront wedding that’s hard to describe but easy to feel. It sets a slower pace. It invites you and your guests to really take in the moment, to breathe, and to soak up the beauty around you.
We’ve had couples tell us they felt like they were in a movie. Or that their guests couldn’t stop raving about the view. One couple even said it felt like they were in their own little world for a day and honestly, that’s kind of the goal.
If you’re dreaming of a romantic, nature-filled summer wedding that still feels elevated and elegant, a lake view might just be the perfect backdrop.
We’d love to show you around, walk you down the grassy aisle, and help you imagine your perfect lakeside “I do.”
We love to support other locally owned wedding venues. The Bella Sera, Bell Tower Falls, The Burch on 27th, The Greenhouse at Arrows Farm, Hawthorn Hills Ranch,