If you’re dreaming of a beach wedding, there are some key things to keep in mind before you start planning.
Here are the must-have items on your list:
1. A Location:
Beach weddings can take place on any stretch of sand, but it’s important to find a spot that is both beautiful and accessible. Make sure to consider how much parking is available, as well as the availability of restrooms and other amenities.
2. A Permit:
Many beaches require a permit for gatherings of more than a certain number of people. Be sure to check with your local beach authority to see if a permit is necessary, and factor that into your budget.
3. Weather:
It’s important to have a plan in place for inclement weather. Many beach weddings take place outdoors, but if a storm rolls in, you’ll need to have a backup location ready to go.
A backup plan in case of bad weather should be considered. It’s always a good idea to have a Plan B ready in case of rain or high winds. This could mean renting a tented area for your ceremony or reception, or having an alternate location nearby in case of inclement weather.
4. A Sound System:
Unless your guests are all within shouting distance, you’ll want some type of sound system to pipe music and speeches into the ears of your loved ones.
5. Entertainment:
If you’re planning on having any sort of entertainment at your beach wedding, be sure to plan. This could mean hiring a band or DJ, setting up games like Cornhole or Volleyball, or just having a few boom boxes playing music throughout the day.
6. Restrooms:
This one is pretty self-explanatory! Make sure there are adequate restrooms for your guests, as well as easy access to them.
7. Food and Beverages:
It’s customary to provide food and drinks for wedding guests, and this is especially important when your wedding is taking place in an outdoor venue.
It’s important to provide food and drink for your guests, whether it’s a full buffet or just a few snacks and drinks. Keep in mind that beach weddings can be very informal, so don’t feel like you have to go overboard with the catering.
Be sure to choose a caterer who is familiar with outdoor weddings, and ask about their contingency plan for inclement weather.
8. Shade:
The sun can be brutal on a beach wedding day, so be sure to have plenty of shady spots for guests to relax. Rent or bring umbrellas, tents, or cabanas to keep everyone cool and comfortable.
9. Seating:
If you’re having a seated dinner, you’ll need seating for all of your guests. If you’re expecting a lot of guests, be sure to have enough seating available – whether it’s Adirondack chairs, benches, or folding chairs set up on the sand. If you’re opting for a cocktail-style reception, be sure to provide plenty of places for people to hang out and mingle.
10. Decor:
Beach weddings are all about embracing the natural beauty of the location, so use accents like shells, sand, and sea glass to decorate your space. Keep in mind that you’ll need to bring everything with you, so pack light but be sure to include all of the essentials.
11. A Planner:
Beach weddings can be tricky to plan, so it’s a good idea to enlist the help of a professional wedding planner who is familiar with coastal venues. They’ll be able to help you navigate the permit process, choose the right vendors, and handle any unexpected issues that may come up.
Follow these tips and you’ll be sure to have a beautiful and stress-free beach wedding that you and your guests will remember for a lifetime.
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