Guest Blogger :: Gina Niemiec

As the summer heat settles in, my mind usually wanders to cooler climes. If I can't make it there physically, daydreaming about my next vacation is the next best thing. Living in the Phoenix area, we all know how popular our Valley is for snowbirds, but it is also a popular spot for destination weddings. When ice and snow take over parts of the east coast in winter, couples flock to our temperate city to exchange vows and give their family and friends a respite from the gloom. Now that we central Arizonans are going in to months of scorch, think of your own getaway for a one-of-a-kind wedding.

Spare yourself the months of planning and worry (and frankly, over thinking) and throw a summer wedding in one of our beautiful Arizona towns that don't see triple-digit temps. There are great spots all over the state, and some locales will do all the work for you. If not, lots of vendors from the Phoenix area will be all-too-happy to provide services in other parts of the state (we need a break from the summertime blues, too!). From uber-casual to formal but not stuffy, look in to a weekend or longer away that your wedding guests will never forget. One of my top picks is Hidden Meadow Ranch right outside Greer. Located in the White Mountains about 4 hours from Phoenix, Greer is a tiny town full of charm, pine trees and temperatures that rarely go above 80 degrees. Hidden Meadow Ranch claims its own mountain top right outside of town, and offers complete luxury in a (very upscale) cabin setting. Renting out the whole ranch for your nuptials grants you and your guests an all-inclusive three gourmet meals a day, horseback riding, hiking and spectacular service. Margarita hayrides, s'mores by the fire, and a sky full of stars will enchant your guests. A gorgeous outdoor ceremony area surrounded by aspens is included, and the staff will have it set with chairs for your guests, and a horse-drawn carriage for the couple. This is luxury at its finest.

Rancho De La Osa, 65 miles south of Tucson, is a 300-year-old property that oozes charm. Rather than the high-country cowboy charm of Greer, give your guests a thoroughly southwest experience in this hacienda that can accommodate up to 50 guests in an estate with a pool, gorgeous mountain scenery and a Spanish-style flair. For a quick getaway, caravan up to the Sedona/Oak Creek area with spectacular red rocks and a sparkling creek for guests explore. Oak Creek Terrace is a quaint 23-room resort that can be rented out for your entire group. Hannigan's Meadow is a remote, gorgeous town in northeast Arizona and a place where everyone can forget about their day-to-day responsibilities and just enjoy the company of good friends, family, and a new beginning for the happy couple.

Image provided by Rhonda Lewis Photography

Taking the ceremony and reception out of town may take the stress off of you, as well. Let experienced venues and vendors take over your vision, show up a few days before the event to start relaxation mode, and show your guests a great time. Summer's heat will be a distant memory, and your guests will be talking about the getaway for years to come.