Planning a Beach Wedding: Key Considerations for a Magical Day

Lori just got married and is going to be share some articles, tips and thinking from her own experience. (She recently wrote an article on Modern Apizza!)

A beach wedding is a dream for many couples, offering a beautiful, natural backdrop of sand, sea, and sky. The gentle sound of waves and the stunning sunset can make for an unforgettable experience. However, planning a beach wedding comes with unique challenges that require careful consideration. Here are some essential tips to ensure your beach wedding goes off without a hitch.

Sand

Marrying on the Beach

Sand can be both a friend and a foe at a beach wedding. While it adds to the charm and ambiance, it can also be quite tricky to manage.

It Gets Everywhere: Sand has a way of sneaking into places, including your dress and veil. Opt for a dress that is easier to shake out or clean and consider lifting your veil off the ground when moving around.
Sandy Feet: Your feet will inevitably get sandy. Bring a towel to wipe off your feet before slipping into your shoes, or consider going barefoot for a more relaxed vibe.
Second Pair of Shoes: Bring along a second pair of shoes that you don’t mind getting sandy or wet. Beach-friendly footwear like sandals or flip-flops can be a great choice for the ceremony, while you can switch to more formal shoes later.

Sun

The sun can be both a blessing and a challenge at a beach wedding.

Sunblock: Wear sunblock to protect your skin and bring extra to reapply. Encourage your guests to do the same. Sunburns are the last thing anyone wants to deal with on such a special day.
Photos: The bright sun can be tricky for wedding photos. However, a professional photographer will know how to handle the lighting to capture beautiful images. Consider scheduling your ceremony in the late afternoon when the sun is less harsh, and the lighting is softer.

Wind

Wind is another factor to keep in mind, as beach locations can be breezy.

Hair and Veil: To prevent your hair and veil from being blown around, consider facing the wind during the ceremony. Your maid of honor or another attendant can help manage your veil if it gets unruly.
Secure Decorations: Weight down or stake any arches, flowers, and other decorations to keep them from blowing away.
Veil weights: These can be a great investment to keep veils in place.
Hairstyle: Opt for a hairstyle that can withstand wind and humidity. An updo can be a great choice, or bring along hair products and tools to fix your hair before the reception if you go with your hair down.

Water

Being near the water adds to the beauty of a beach wedding but also requires caution.

Waves and Tide: Be mindful of waves and high tide when setting up your ceremony and taking photos. It’s essential to know the tide schedule and plan accordingly to avoid any surprises.
Drinking Water: Speaking of water, bring bottles of water with you to stay hydrated.

Additional Tips

Permits and Regulations: Check if you need a permit to hold your wedding on the beach and be aware of any regulations or restrictions.
Comfort for Guests: Provide comfortable seating for guests and consider setting up a canopy or tent for shade. Offering chilled water and fans can help keep everyone cool if the heat is brutal.
Timing: Plan your ceremony timing to take advantage of the best light and temperatures. Early morning or late afternoon can provide stunning lighting and more comfortable conditions.

The Beauty of Beach Weddings

Sand, Sea, and Sun Weddings

Despite these challenges, beach weddings are incredibly beautiful and worth the effort. The natural scenery provides a stunning backdrop that requires minimal additional decoration. The sound of the waves and the feel of the sand create a relaxed and romantic atmosphere. The stunning sunsets and open skies make for unforgettable photos and memories.

With careful planning and consideration of these tips, you can ensure your beach wedding is a magical and stress-free event. Embrace the natural beauty and enjoy the unique experience of a beach wedding—it’s a day you and your guests will cherish forever!