Do You See Seashells? 7 Things to Remember When Planning a Beach Wedding

beach wedding

Beaches are beautiful, and an enviable destination for any wedding.  The plus is that you have the ocean as your backdrop; the negative is that the weather very well could rain on your parade.

So, because of the particularities involved with such a special destination, we’ve put together a few suggestions for those who are planning a beach wedding.

  1. Check to see if permits are required

Rules are different for every beach, so you’ll need to know when a permit is required, and when one isn’t.  Questions to ask include:

  • What are the regulations regarding the size of the guest list? If you have a big wedding, more regulations could be in place.
  • What are the regulations regarding privacy? If you’d like a certain area roped off, then you’ll need to check with the local government to see what can be done to make it clear that your wedding is a private event, and random beach goers aren’t invited.
  • What are the rules for alcohol? Many beaches don’t allow alcohol to be consumed on premises, so check local codes to see if this rule applies to the beach where you’re having your wedding.
  • What are the regulations for miscellaneous things you might want to do? For example, say that festivities call for setting a bonfire for whatever reason.  Well some beaches don’t allow them, while others require a permit.  So, learn what the rules are, and if you’ll need a permit, or if something is prohibited altogether, so that you’ll need to continue on your way.
  1. Know your sand rights.

    Basically, beaches are public property, so you’re welcome to have a wedding ceremony on the beach.  However, things can become more complicated if you’d like to find a specific space on private property.  So, to prepare for finding an event space, start early, because people can sometimes clam up when it comes to using their property for an event.  Starting early will not only let you find the right space, but will also give you enough time to find anyone who might relent after saying they didn’t want a wedding on their property.  It’s possible, but give yourself enough time just in case.

  1. Make your wedding accessible to everyone.

    In the real world, many places of residence and business are handicap accessible, and, really, all places should be accessible, but that’s another story for a different day.  So, consider your guests who might have difficulty getting to the area, and be sure that accommodations are made so that they can get to the wedding easily.  They are there to celebrate you, so make the process as effortless as possible for all of your guests and hired professionals.

  1. Cover any and all of your concerns about sound.

    While the sound of the ocean is calming right before bed, it can really make for unwanted background music during a wedding.  Make sure that you’ve got your sound questions covered.  From making sure that you have some sort of portable power source, to making sure that you have an amplifier if needed, sound is something that can easily be forgotten.  Think it through carefully.

  1. Accept the nature of nature, which is sometimes mercurial, at best.

    Beaches are glorious reminders of the wonder of life.  From having the chance to see aquatic life up close, to marveling at the ordered, yet chaotic designs on a conch shell, you really have selected a special locale to celebrate your wedding.  However, beaches will be available relative to the high and low tides, and the weather (as would any outside setting).  You’ll need to be prepared with a Plan B just in case it rains, unfortunately, and also know when the beach will be available – specifically what times according to the tide schedule

  1. Dress accordingly

    The breezy, relaxed setting will call for attire that is lightweight.  The bride won’t need a gown, and, for the groom, linen works well.  Try lightweight fabrics like cotton, crepe, and linen.

  1. Hire a wedding photographer.

    A beach wedding will no doubt have photos that will be both memorable and fun.  You’ll need someone who understands the nuances of beach photography.  You’ll have a natural setting backdrop replete with waves and the softly gleaming sun or sunset.  The photos will carry an elegant beauty, so consider working with a professional who can bring the most out of a wedding setting around which you’ve already put time into planning.

We do offer a beautiful selection of invitations for beach destination weddings.  Feel free to browse our website or give us a call at 1-800-428-0379 for more personalized service.

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