Idea File: Summer

On a sweltering summer day, here is a favor that is as practical as it is cute. Simply tie a straw to your favorite bottle of bubbly and let your guests enjoy.

Chevron is still a hot pattern—especially in this bright mustard hue. When paired with a calligraphic font, the bold zig-zag is perfectly balanced. Table number created by Persnickety Invitation Studio, persnicketyinc.com.

A little bit country? Cowboy (or in this case, cowgirl) boots add some fun farmland flair to your bridal party.

Pennant banners in various colors—such as magenta, turquoise and chartreuse, shown here—are a great way to incorporate a color palette into your reception celebration.

For this festive summer floral arrangement, a wooden box stained a vibrant turquoise (made by the groom!) provides much more visual interest than a traditional vase.

Let fondant flowers “take the cake,” like the bright yellow blooms on this creation from The Couture Cakery, couturecakery.net.

How “tweet”! This precious birdcage cake, created by the bride’s mother, features fondant and fresh flowers in contrasting neon hues.

When using an unusual flower, like the billy balls here, keep your arrangement simple. This look works best on a neutral color palette—such as this groom’s black, white and gray. Boutonniere by Petals with Style, petalswithstyle.com.

Bold bridesmaids’ dresses? Stick with a simple bundle of baby’s breath to let the gown have its glory. By the way, we love the two-toned frock shown here! Bouquet by Carmen Horst Floral Designs, flowersbycarmen.com. Dress from Francesca’s Collections at Park City Center, francescas.com.