Are you a lover of fresh ocean air, sand between your toes and a light sea breeze? Having your ceremony on the beach will incorporate the sea, sand, shells, maybe even a sunset to create the perfect romantic oasis for you to exchange your vows. Sounds great, however there is a lot to plan for and consider for your outdoor, beach ceremony.
DRESS:
If you have chosen to have a beach ceremony your dress code should follow suit. Maybe skip the traditional ballgown wedding dress and elegant pumps and go for lightweight fabrics, flats or maybe even barefoot. Your wedding party should be similar, determine how informal you are willing to go in terms of pants vs. shorts, long vs. short dresses, and barefoot vs. shoes vs. sandals. Be sure to let your guests know of the dress code and prepare them for the many moods of Mother Nature.
TIME OF DAY:
The time of day is extremely important and determining the location of the sun and the backdrop you wish during your gorgeous beach ceremony. A sunset “I do” is very popular and takes very detailed planning to make happen. Morning beach ceremonies are also very beautiful and often quieter in terms of ocean noise. Finally, make sure to check the tides, as you wouldn’t want your ceremony location to suddenly be under water.
GUESTS:
How many people are attending? Will it be small and intimate or big enough that you need to set up an aisle and chairs or benches? These are all things to consider prior to planning your beach ceremony. Be sure to prepare your guests so they know the ceremony will be taking place in the sand. Consider providing things like a shoe station, sunscreen, water bottles, towels, umbrellas or small hand fans for your guests.
WEATHER:
This, you can’t control. Mother nature is incredible unpredictable so you need to be prepared for anything from scorching heat to wind and rain. Tents are often a good quick fix solution if you are determined to exchange your vows on the beach. You can also consider scoping out the beach for an area blocked from the wind or close to shelter incase it starts to rain.
DECORATIONS:
You don’t need much for a beach wedding as the natural ocean view and white sand is already breathtaking. You may want to consider an arbor and flowers to decorate the aisle and chairs but try to just play up the natural setting you have already chosen. Shells, tropical flowers, starfish, driftwood and light curtains work great. Also consider if you want to set up a walkway or floor or if the natural sand between your toes is the way to go. Be sure to windproof and anchor your decorations!
