How to Plan a Beach Wedding

A beach is one of the most romantic wedding settings there is. The sound of the waves, the feel of the sand, and the beauty of a stunning backdrop can make your special day truly magical. The only downside is that planning a beach wedding can be trickier than planning a wedding in a traditional venue.

To help you avoid disaster, here are nine tips to make sure your beach wedding goes perfectly to plan.

1. Choose the beach carefully

Choosing the perfect beach is the first step. It needs to be accessible to your guests, but far enough away from the general public so you won’t be disturbed. Don’t forget to check if you need any permits, especially if you’ll be setting up structures like a marquee or arch.

2. Time it right

Timing can make or break a beach wedding. Having your ceremony in the late afternoon or early evening can give you the best lighting and more comfortable temperatures, depending on where you are. Make sure you check the tide schedule so your big day doesn’t get ruined by creeping waves!

3. Prepare for the elements

The weather will be your greatest enemy when planning a beach wedding. Consider providing sun tan lotion for your guests and putting up a windscreen for your ceremony. A shaded area or parasols can also provide relief from the summer sun.

4. Dress for the occasion

To keep comfortable, it’s important to choose the right clothes for a beach setting. Lightweight fabrics like chiffon or linen are ideal materials, whatever you’re planning on wearing. Encourage guests to dress comfortably, too, and consider providing flip-flops so people can move around easily.

5. Keep the decor simple

The natural beauty of the beach should be the focal point of your venue, so keep the decor simple. Opt for minimalist, elegant touches like seashell centrepieces and driftwood accents. This approach not only saves you money but also complements the scenic surroundings.

6. Consider the noise

The sound of waves can be soothing, but it might make it difficult for guests to hear the ceremony. Consider using a microphone and a sound system so everyone can hear your vows clearly.

7. Plan the menu carefully

When putting your menu together, tie it in with the beach setting. Light, fresh dishes work well, and a buffet or barbeque setup can be more convenient than a sit-down meal. Ensure there are plenty of cool drinks available, and consider serving cocktails that suit the beach vibe, like piña coladas or mojitos.

8. Have a plan B

You never know what the weather has in store, so having a backup plan is essential. Consider renting a tent or marquee that can be quickly set up if needed. Alternatively, have an indoor venue nearby that can accommodate your guests in case the weather takes a turn for the worse.

9. Capture the moment

A beach wedding offers stunning photo opportunities that you won’t want to miss. Hire a photographer experienced in beach settings to make the most of the natural light and surroundings. Drone photography can also capture breathtaking aerial shots of your special day.

Make it happen

By carefully choosing your venue, having a plan B, and making sure your guests are looked after, your dream beach wedding can become a reality. It takes a little more planning and effort than a traditional wedding, but a beach wedding will provide you with incredible memories you’ll never forget.