Summer means long lazy days, reading books on the beach, melty ice cream.. and getting married! Wedding season (or "Summer" as it's sometimes called) makes the most of the fairest and most beautiful time of year by bringing family and friends together to celebrate a long life of love and happiness between the new couple! As we know from the cinema, summer is one of the best and most memorable times to get married, and this season there's some hot new wedding trends you just have to know about if you're about to get hitched.

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One of the biggest trends this year for summer weddings is a rustic theme. Taking your ceremony and reception back to basics is a great way to add some down-to-earth charm and elegant simplicity to your special day. Wildflowers in mason jars for decoration and outdoor reception venues like ranches or country halls evoke a lovely, homey atmosphere for your guests and future family. Other decorative elements include branches and sticks in vases for table settings, while colors may run the gamut from deep jewel tones with metallic accents to classic cream colors.

In keeping with the move towards simplicity, makeup and hair trends are softer and more classic to match. Makeup should be natural, with berry tones for lips and browns and beiges for eyes, though trends lately have reflected a desire for accenting features, with metallic eyemakeup or dark lips. While complex updos may be the dream of many a future bride, lately bridal hairstyles have tended towards a more effortless or relaxed look. Loose ponies and low chignons have been in style lately, with an emphasis on creating flow that draws the eye in over the look rather than distracting attention and keeping it on the hair. Braids have also made a country comeback, with countless combinations, from fishbone or fishtail braids that show off the hair to braided crowns to statement braids.

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Just as the hairstyle itself should be a complementary accessory, and so accessories themselves ought to be kept to a minimum. Jewelry should complement the dress and go with the hair as well. This year some eye catching new trends in accessorizing include hair crowns and other hair accessories. Golden metallic crowns will make you feel like a princess, and there's a lot of high fashion options that mimic flowers and wreaths. If you're feeling more daring, maybe lights will be more your style, like these awesome light-up flower garlands from Reem Acra.

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Make your summer wedding everything you've ever dreamed. Add a little spice and flair with these unique new trends for saying "I do" this season!

Gwen Lewis is a writer and makeup artist based in Southern California. Because of her passion for beauty and health, she hopes to help others not just look great but feel great, whether through makeup or her writing. In her free time, she enjoy shopping and pick-up soccer games with her friends. Follow her @GwenEveLewis