5 Things to Consider When Planning a Beach Wedding
Back List- Posted by: Nicole Strykowski
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Are you the laid back bride picturing herself getting married by the water on the serene beach? Picture perfect views are possible, but a beach is still a beach and you should still expect natural weather, wind, sun, and sand on your wedding day. Our goal is not to scare you with these tips, but to have you as prepared as possible so you can make your dream beach wedding come to life! Here are 5 things to consider when planning a beach wedding.
Heatproof Attire
The beach is sunny, sandy, and windy. Your wedding dress should allow you to be as comfortable as possible and match that laid back energy. Choose a lightweight fabric like chiffon or charmeuse - this will give you an airy feel and allow your dress to flow freely with the wind. A spaghetti strap style is also a great option to keep you cool and avoid odd tan lines. To bypass a losing battle with the wind, we also suggest skipping a veil or super long train. Here are some of our favorite beach wedding dress suggestions!
Josie Dress
Liz Dress
Hera Dress
Attain A Beach Permit
This will change depending on the location. Destination wedding resorts or beach venues may already have a portion of their beach blocked off specifically for weddings so you wont have to worry about a permit. But if you are planning to use a public beach, don't be surprised if you catch bystanders admiring your ceremony. Choose a more secluded part of the beach and definitely spend some time looking up the local government website or visit city hall to see their requirements.
Photo by @rosmarin_weddings.
Sturdy Seating
Chances are, if you're already thinking about a beach wedding, you probably know you are not going to have a long traditional ceremony, like you would in a church. Consider a shorter ceremony and sturdy seating so your guests are not uncomfortable in the sun or sinking in the sand. Benches or aluminum chairs will be your best bet, and maybe consider minimal seating, just for the elderly. Be sure to weigh or tie down the alter or any decor that could shift around with the wind.
Photo by @memorybox_photo.
Be Prepared
Mother earth has no discrimination. The heat, wind, bugs, and noises don't care about that it's your big day. Ensure your guests a comfortable experience by providing bug spray, cold drinks on hand, and maybe shady umbrellas depending on time of day. You can even put together a mini welcome package to hand out - this can include cute custom shades, sunscreen, hand towels or fans, a water bottle, etc.
Consider Time of Day
If you're shooting outdoors in general, golden hour is the ideal time of day for pictures. Golden hour is when the sun is at its softest and ambient light. This happens an hour before sunset OR an hour after sunrise. If you're having a beach wedding, there's a couple more things you may have to consider. The sun can reflect on the water pretty strongly, so If you are having your ceremony during peak sunny hours, be aware that your photographer may have to do some creative angles or editing to counter the reflection. Don't forget to consider the timing of the tide and make sure your ceremony is set up far enough not to be swept away.
Dress pictured is Moonstone. Photo by @ladymehan.
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