May + golden hour is basically the ultimate outdoor wedding combo: the light is soft, the weather is (usually) sweet, and everything feels extra romantic without trying too hard.
If you’re planning a sunset ceremony, these ideas are designed to photograph beautifully, feel guest-friendly, and keep your timeline running smoothly—because pretty is great, but pretty and practical is the goal.
Top 5
1) Wildflower Aisle + Meadow Arch Moment
Swap a traditional runner for small clusters of wildflowers lining the aisle—think jars, bud vases, or low ground arrangements that won’t block views. A meadow-inspired arch (asymmetrical, airy, not too “perfect”) looks incredible when the sun hits from behind. Keep stems in the May-friendly palette: buttery yellow, blush, cream, and soft lilac for that glowy, painterly vibe.
2) “Sunset Facing” Ceremony Layout (The Secret to Flawless Photos)
For golden hour, orientation matters more than people realize: aim to have guests facing the sun and you facing your guests (so your faces aren’t shadowed). Your photographer can help pick the exact angle based on your venue, but even a slight turn can save your whole gallery. Bonus: this layout also makes your backdrop look like a literal wash of light—no extra décor required.
3) Pastel Parasols + Light Wraps for a Chic Guest Experience
May evenings can start warm and turn breezy fast, so offer a “golden hour comfort station” with pastel parasols and lightweight wraps in a basket near the ceremony entrance. Parasols read instantly elevated in photos (especially in ivory, blush, and pale blue), and wraps keep guests from shivering through vows. Add a small sign with a one-liner like “For sunshine + later breezes” to make it feel intentional.
4) Grounded Candle Meadow (LED) for Twilight Transition
Golden hour turns into twilight quickly, so plan a setup that gets prettier as the light drops. Create a “candle meadow” at the altar base or along the aisle edges using clustered LED pillar candles in mixed heights—safe for grass, wind-friendly, and venue-approved. The result is a warm glow that carries your ceremony into those just-after-sunset portraits without scrambling for extra lighting.
5) Post-Ceremony Mini Celebration: Petals + Sparkling Drinks at Sunset
Right after the kiss, cue a quick, photo-ready moment: dried flower petals (or biodegradable confetti) and sparkling drinks waiting nearby for a 10-minute toast. It keeps guests engaged while you two take a couple golden portraits, and it makes the transition to cocktail hour feel seamless. Choose coupe glasses or vintage-style flutes for that golden-hour shimmer, and keep the drink color light (think elderflower, rosé spritz, or a citrus mocktail).
FAQ
What time is “golden hour” in May for an outdoor wedding?
Golden hour is typically the last 60–90 minutes before sunset, but it varies by location and date. Look up sunset time for your venue and build your ceremony start time so vows land about 30–45 minutes before sunset for the prettiest light.
How do I keep guests comfortable at a May outdoor sunset ceremony?
Plan for both sun and temperature changes: provide parasols, water, and a few fans if it’s warm, plus light wraps or pashminas if it cools down. Also consider bug-repellent wipes in a discreet basket—May can be sneaky with mosquitoes near gardens and water.
What colors photograph best for a May golden hour wedding?
Soft neutrals and warm pastels look amazing in sunset light: ivory, champagne, blush, buttery yellow, sage, and dusty blue. If you want contrast, add a deeper accent like terracotta or muted plum in small doses (ribbons, stationery, or bridesmaid accessories).
What’s the best ceremony backdrop for golden hour?
Anything that catches light and stays simple: open fields, gardens, a tree line, or a clean view of the horizon. If the venue backdrop is busy, an airy arch with negative space (instead of a heavy floral wall) keeps the focus on you and lets the sun do the work.
How do I avoid harsh sun or squinting during a sunset ceremony?
Do a quick “sun test” at the ceremony spot around the same time of day a week or two before, then rotate the setup so you’re not staring into direct sun. Your photographer and planner can also suggest placing you in open shade (like near trees) while still keeping that golden glow in the background.