Beach Wedding tips. Tips for getting married on the beach.
To make your beach wedding more perfect here are a few good tips to remember:
1) Mobility!
While the image of a couple and their guests barefoot on the beach is quite romantic, it's not that practical unless your guest list is on the small side. Walking on sand can be awkward and older guests may not feel comfortable doing so. Some beach locations don't allow for seating so your guests may have to stand throughout the service. As an alternative, consider a ceremony set up on a boardwalk or grassy knoll that overlooks the beach. After the vows, the bride, groom, and photographer can go down to the beach for those special shots.
2) What to wear!
If your ceremony is held directly on the beach, you'll want to opt for a dress that is no longer than tea length. Since your guests will be barefoot too, it makes sense to inform them that the event is somewhat casual.
3) It gets hot!
Most beaches are wide open without any tree cover to provide shade. Depending on the season and location of the beach, guests at midday events run the risk of getting scorched by the sun. Remember that besides the air temperature, the sand gets really hot too. In fact, in some locations, it may be downright uncomfortable or painful to walk on the sand. You may want to schedule a morning wedding or one at dusk to avoid any heat-related problems.
4) Quality of the sand!
Some beaches are powdery soft while others and strewn with beautiful (yet sharp!) seashells. At some beaches, you and your guests may need to wear sandals to prevent being cut on shells or coral.
5) Sun glare!
If your wedding is at midday, you run the risk of sun glare. (That's right. A million photos of the bride and groom squinting at each other as they recite their vows.) Before the wedding, go to the beach at the time your wedding is slated for and determine which way to face in order to minimize glare and discomfort for the bride and groom and guests.
6) Noise!
You want your guests to hear every word of the ceremony and the vows that took hours to write. Yet, a beach can be a pretty noisy place. Make sure that your ceremony is not set up too close to the crest of the waves hitting the shoreline. (Outgoing tides are quieter than those coming in so you may want to check a tidal chart before selecting your ceremony time.)
7) Bugs & Insects!
Depending on the season and ceremony time, mosquitoes or other uninvited pests may become a problem. Light citronella candles or make sure everyone applies bug repellant before arriving to the beach.
8) Getting permission!
Many beaches are public or on the grounds of a state park. You'll need to get check local ordinances and get the approval of the county clerk's office or the management of the park. In many cases, you'll also have to pay a fee for a permit. These governing agencies will also let you know if chairs, arches, open flames (candles), and musicians are allowed on the beach. Check these details before falling in love with any one location.
Don't miss The Complete Guide to Weddings Abroad which will show you the best resorts, the best beaches, the best planners, more tips plus everything you will need to know for your perfect wedding day on the beach!
