Planning a Beach Wedding – The Ultimate Guide

Planning a wedding is not an easy task. You need to take care of many different things, ranging from food and drink to a guest list. Because of that, it is likely to end up making you feel exhausted and stressed out.

It can get much more difficult if you decide to plan a beach wedding, though. You are bound to encounter quite a few unique considerations and problems that would not be an issue if you were to go for a traditional wedding venue.

Luckily, this article should help you figure it out! Here, you will find the ultimate guide to planning a beach wedding, including budgeting tips and fashion and beauty advice. Check it out!

Catering

For starters, you must contact a catering company that knows how to go about off-site catering and has already worked on a beach. Then, you can ask about the company’s handling of beach weddings during your catering tasting.

In addition to that, you should purchase the right kind of wine. Ideally, it should be a wine that both you and your partner enjoy. In case you are a fan of rare and fine wine, check out https://www.ackerwines.com/faq. It is one of the largest wine auction houses in the world, meaning that it should help you get your hands on the rarest of wines.

Other than that, you can think about moving the second half of your wedding day indoors. It will make serving food and drinks much easier, and there are plenty of ocean-view venues that would be willing to cap off a beach wedding!

Date and Time

You must find out what the weather will be like on your wedding day, as well as when the sun will set and what time the high tide will approach your chosen beach spot. 

It might not seem like it, but it will be beneficial for planning your wedding. For instance, it will help you position the ceremony altar. It should be placed close to the sea but far away from the high tide.

On top of that, you should choose an appropriate date. You might want to select the time of the year when the weather is most pleasant. For instance, if you were to organize a beach wedding in Hawaii, you would not want it to occur during the rainy season.

Budget

Setting a reasonable budget should be one of the first things you and your partner do when planning your beach wedding. It will help you determine what you can and cannot afford. That way, you will not end up overspending.

If you are organizing your wedding in an oceanfront resort, you are in luck! The resort staff will likely help you take the guesswork out of the process by presenting you with a beach wedding package.

On the other hand, if you are willing to take up a challenge, you can organize your wedding on a public beach. It will be much cheaper cost-wise compared to other types of weddings, but nothing will be provided except for the sand. 

To go through with it, you will need to get a city permit, which can cost up to $250 depending on the beach and the number of people you want to attend your wedding. Second, you will have to get creative when it comes to decor and rent out chairs, tents, and power generators.

In case that sounds a bit overwhelming, you can hire a wedding planner! They are an experienced professional who will help you create a realistic budget that considers the cost of equipment.

Decor and Rental

You do not need to be an experienced interior decorator to make your wedding venue look stunning! But, first, you should survey the premises and see what the venue is like. For example, if your wedding is going to take place on a beach that belongs to a beach resort, the staff should help you take care of lighting, sound equipment, and power generators.

On the flip side, exchanging your vows on a public beach means that you are going to be working with a completely blank slate. In such a situation, you must rent out reliable sound equipment. Otherwise, your guest might not be able to hear the ceremony over the waves!

Having figured out the logistics of the ceremony, you can have a bit of fun thinking about the visual side of things. Choose the colour palette, think about floral arrangements, and – if you want to be original – forage for starfish, driftwood, and seashells.

It is worth noting that strong gusts of wind are going to be one of your biggest enemies. The flower vases might get blown down, and the paper escort cards are likely to fly away. Because of that, you should think about weighing the flower vases down and order a calligraphed wood seating chart instead of paper cards.

Lastly, it is recommended that you steer clear of balloons and confetti. Both become a hazard upon entering the environment and are mistaken for food by different species of fish and other marine life, killing thousands of animals. Because of that, they are best avoided!

Permit

Again, getting married on the beach will require you to get your wedding location legally squared away. If you are organizing the wedding on the grounds of a seaside resort, they should handle the paperwork for you. 

Unfortunately, if you will be getting married on a private/public beach and you cannot count on a seaside resort to help you out, take your time and research the local city ordinances and permits to stay in the clear. If you do not understand something, consult a regional wedding planner/head down to the local city hall to get more information.

Fashion and Beauty

The wind and the sun are going to have the most significant impact on your wedding day, including fashion and beauty. You will need to choose a wedding dress and attire for your wedding reception that is practical and matches the laid-back atmosphere of the beach. 

For instance, you can go for a flowy wedding dress with an open back and cap sleeves. In addition to that, you might want to ditch the stilettos and opt for sandals/go barefoot.

The same principle applies to your hairstyle. Instead of a modern high ponytail, you can go for a low chignon. If that is not your cup of tea, consider relaxed waves and a flower crown that matches your wedding dress.

When it comes to make-up, wear waterproof eyeliner and mascara, as well as sunscreen. Do not wear lipgloss, though! If there is any wind, it will make your veil and sand stick to your lips, which is bound to make you feel uncomfortable.

Guest Experience

Sitting on a beach in the scorching sun might end up being incredibly uncomfortable for your guests. To avoid putting your friends and loved ones in a bad mood, ensure that the welcome amenities and wedding favours can make the event more pleasant.

Luckily, it is not as difficult as it might seem. First, you need to gift your wedding guests sunscreen and fluffy towels. Then, if you have money to spare, consider purchasing sunglasses, umbrellas, and flip-flops, too!

In addition, you should encourage your guests to wear more laid-back outfits that include sandals and hats. You can put such a request in your wedding invitations. That way, your guests will not have to rely on your gifts and are likely to come prepared!

Backup Plan

Imagine that inclement weather suddenly rolls in. What would you do in such a situation? To feel calm and collected on your special day, you need to develop a detailed backup plan that will help you deal with such a scenario.

To ensure that everything will run smoothly, talk to your wedding planner ahead of time and communicate the details to the wedding vendors, the wedding officiant, and the family members helping you plan everything out.

Additionally, remember to test the sound equipment before the wedding. Ideally, it would be best if you did it around two days before the wedding day. Then, if something turns out to be malfunctioning/broken, you will have enough time to take care of the issue.

In Conclusion

To sum up, planning a beach wedding is a complicated task, but it is not impossible! You need to read up on the topic, prepare yourself for potential problems, and hire a wedding planner and wedding vendors who have already had a chance to help prepare a beach wedding.

Furthermore, you must plan everything out carefully. Your wedding planner should help you handle the paperwork and decorations, but it does not mean that you should follow that person’s lead blindly. 

Instead, ask questions if you do not understand something and have honest conversations regarding your expectations. It might not seem like much, but it will make your wedding planner’s job a whole lot easier!

Summary: Planning a Beach Wedding

1. Choose the Perfect Beach Location:

• Select a beach location that suits your vision and preferences. Consider factors such as accessibility, weather, and local regulations.

2. Check Legal Requirements:

• Research and understand the legal requirements for getting married on the beach in your chosen location. Obtain the necessary permits and licenses.

3. Plan for Weather Conditions:

• Be prepared for various weather conditions by having backup plans in case of rain, wind, or extreme heat. Rent tents or provide shade options for guests.

4. Inform Your Guests:

• Provide detailed information to your guests about the beach wedding location, including directions, accommodations, and any special instructions or attire suggestions.

5. Dress Appropriately:

• Choose a wedding dress and attire that are suitable for a beach setting. Opt for lightweight and breathable fabrics, and consider barefoot or sand-friendly footwear.

6. Decorate with Beach Elements:

• Incorporate beach-themed decorations such as seashells, starfish, and driftwood into your ceremony and reception decor. Embrace a nautical color palette and natural beach elements.

7. Consider the Tides:

• Check the tide schedule to plan your ceremony time accordingly. Aim for low tide if you prefer a wider beach space.

8. Sound and Music Considerations:

• Account for the wind and ambient noise by using sound equipment or a professional sound system for your ceremony. Choose appropriate music that complements the beach atmosphere.

9. Catering and Menu:

• Select a menu that suits a beach wedding, considering light and refreshing options. Incorporate seafood or tropical-inspired dishes for a beachy vibe.

10. Provide Guest Comfort:

• Arrange for seating options, shade, and amenities such as sunscreen, bug spray, and fans to ensure your guests’ comfort during the ceremony and reception.

11. Plan for Beach Cleanup:

• Be environmentally conscious by arranging for beach cleanup after the event. Encourage guests to dispose of trash properly.

FAQ: Planning a Beach Wedding

What are the key considerations when planning a beach wedding?

Planning a beach wedding requires careful consideration of several factors. First, check local regulations and permits required for hosting a wedding on the beach. Consider the weather and choose a suitable season for your beach wedding. Look for a beach location that fits your vision, whether it’s a secluded cove, a public beach, or a resort venue. Keep in mind the tides, accessibility, and available amenities. Lastly, consider the comfort of your guests by providing shade, seating, and appropriate footwear suggestions.

How can I incorporate beach-inspired elements into my wedding décor?

Incorporating beach-inspired elements into your wedding décor can create a charming coastal atmosphere. Consider using natural materials like seashells, driftwood, and starfish in your centerpieces or table settings. Choose colors that reflect the beach aesthetic, such as soft blues, sandy neutrals, and vibrant corals. Use nautical ropes, fishing nets, or lanterns as decorative accents. Incorporate beach-themed signage, such as directional signs with seashell motifs or personalized message boards.

What are some suitable attire options for a beach wedding?

Suitable attire options for a beach wedding should be comfortable, breathable, and in tune with the relaxed coastal vibe. For brides, lightweight and flowy dresses are popular choices, such as bohemian-style gowns, tea-length dresses, or simple sheath dresses. Consider open-toed sandals or wedges instead of traditional heels. Grooms can opt for linen suits, khaki pants paired with a crisp white shirt, or a more casual look with a linen shirt and dress pants. Don’t forget to consider the weather and choose fabrics that are appropriate for the beach setting.

How can I ensure the comfort of my guests during a beach wedding?

Ensuring the comfort of your guests during a beach wedding is crucial for their enjoyment. Provide shade options like umbrellas or a canopy for guests to escape the sun. Consider offering personalized fans or providing sunscreen and bug repellent for their convenience. Provide comfortable seating arrangements, such as folding chairs or benches with cushions. Inform guests in advance about the beach location and suggest appropriate footwear options. Offering refreshing beverages or a water station can also keep guests hydrated and comfortable.

What are some tips for capturing beautiful beach wedding photos?

To capture beautiful beach wedding photos, communicate with your photographer beforehand to discuss your vision and any specific shots you desire. Schedule a time for a pre-wedding photo shoot to take advantage of the golden hour lighting. Embrace the natural elements of the beach, such as the sand, waves, and sunset, as backdrops for your photos. Consider incorporating props like a colorful beach umbrella, a vintage bicycle, or a beach blanket. Lastly, be open to spontaneous moments and enjoy the candid shots that showcase the joy and romance of your beach wedding.