How to Plan an Outdoor Beach Wedding

Outdoor beach weddings have a casual elegance that many couples adore. While the scenery can't be beat, the elements can be a bit bothersome. With a solid plan, however, you can have a gorgeous and memorable beach wedding.

Instructions

Difficulty: Moderately Easy

Things You’ll Need:

• Hurricane lamps or lanterns
• Fishing weights

1. Choose a location on the beach for the ceremony. Direct wind can make a wedding ceremony frustrating for all involved, so consider a protected cove in which to say your vows.
2. Time the wedding according to the tides. During high tide there may not be much beach to work with on some shorelines, so consult an almanac or visit your location at various times.
3. Plan for rain however unlikely it may be. Every outdoor wedding should have a contingency plan in place should the weather go south. A ballroom at a nearby hotel on standby should suffice.
4. Choose how you want to set up the ceremony layout. Face your guests with the sun at their backs to prevent the glare from ruining their view. Your pictures will also look better if the sun is behind the photographer.
5. Opt for light colors for the wedding decor and attire. Deep colors do not go with a beach scene at all. Think sun-faded colors like pastels to match the casual nature of a beach wedding.
6. Move large wedding receptions off the beach and onto an outdoor patio or courtyard at a beachfront hotel. Receptions on the beach can be hard to navigate and cater when there are more than 20 or so guests.
7. Erect a canopy for a sit-down reception on the beach with a small guest list. A canopy will protect food and guests from sun and seagull droppings.
8. Send beach-themed invitations to match the tone of your wedding.
9. Select beach-themed favors for guest such as custom flip flops, seashell frames, seashell soaps and miniature lanterns.
10. Dress for the heat and the casual venue. Ball gown wedding dresses and tuxedos are not appropriate for the beach. Choose a more casual flowing dress and light-colored suit instead.

Tips & Warnings

• Get a package that combines a destination wedding ceremony, reception and honeymoon to save money.
• Plan a winter beach wedding in a tropical location. Your guests will relish getting away from the cold weather for the beach and so will you.
• If the bride is wearing a veil, weigh it down with tiny fishing weights painted to match. Wind can make a real mess of the light material.
• Protect open flame candles from the wind using hurricane lamps, lanterns or glass vases.
• Don't wait to book your wedding in popular beach locations. Destination weddings are more common than ever, and beachfront hotels often fill up for the wedding season.

Who Can Help:

• Find Decorators & Designers Here. Compare Up to 4 Quotes, Free Service & No Obligation.