7 Tips for Planning the Perfect Beach Wedding

For those wishing to exchange their vows in a more informal, non-traditional manner, what could be more romantic than having a beach wedding? Beach weddings are becoming very popular, and there is a wide range of options, from casual and low-priced through to elaborate and expensive.

When planning your beach wedding, you have a few options. If you choose to take the DIY approach and make all the arrangements yourself, here are some things to consider.

1. Permits and reservations

You will probably need to obtain a permit and make reservations well in advance if you want a beach wedding. You may be required to pay a fee for your permit. The first step is to contact the local government body in your chosen location.

The further in advance you get in touch with them, the better. They will require as much information as possible: dates, number of guests, who is doing the catering, and the type of setup. Some may refuse simply because of liability issues, but with any luck they will issue you a permit.

It is a good idea to apply with a number of different towns along the beach. That way you have some backup and more chance of getting approved.

Many towns’ Tourist Information Centers or Chambers of Commerce have information packages on the requirements for beach weddings, and can let you know what is and is not allowed. For example, some may require you to use only approved caterers and other vendors.

2. Facilities and utilities

When planning a beach wedding, it’s crucial to think about facilities and utilities. You will need to make sure that your chosen location has access to electricity, water and restrooms. If your guest will be driving to the wedding, make sure there is plenty parking available.

3. Vendors

You will need to contact your caterers, florists, rental companies, decorators, DJ and other vendors well in advance. You should ensure that they are willing and able to provide their services at the beach. Be ready to pay more than you expect, though.

4. Weather

Given that you will be getting married outside, you need to take the weather into consideration. Obviously, since you are planning to have your wedding at the beach it would make more sense to have it in summer or spring. Even so, check the long range forecasts and try to have a contingency plan, just in case of unexpected wind or rain.

5. The reception

You will need to decide what kind of reception you want to have. Will it be held at a nearby restaurant or hall?

If so, they may not be too keen on having sand from the beach tracked into their premises. You will have to ensure there are facilities for you and your guests to clean up.

Will it be held in a pavilion on the beach? This may be easier, more fun and cheaper, but you will need to make sure it is covered by your permit and coordinate with your caterer and vendors. Alternatively, you could choose to leave it to the professionals. This option may be a little more costly, but will generally be a lot less stressful.

More: 10 Unique Wedding Reception Ideas

6. Hotels

Many hotels, especially those in popular tourist destinations have in-house wedding planning facilities. Some offer wedding package deals. Simply contact a few hotels in your chosen destination and see what they have to offer.

There are many advantages to this approach: the hotels have experience and know exactly what needs to be done; your guests will have somewhere to stay; you can get your honeymoon started straight away. You will, of course, have to communicate with the hotel to ensure that everything will be exactly as you want it.

7. Wedding planners

There are many professional wedding planners out there, some of whom specialize in specific styles of wedding. You shouldn’t have much difficulty finding a wedding planner specializing in beach weddings.

They have the experience and knowledge necessary to ensure everything goes off without a hitch. Simply let them know your budget and the style of wedding you want, and then let them do all the work.

More: 11 Ways to Plan a Super-Fast Wedding

With the appropriate planning a beach wedding can be a wonderfully romantic occasion, which you and your guests will remember for a lifetime.  With these tips you have all the information you need to plan the perfect beach wedding.

Do you think having a beach wedding is a unique idea?