Planning a beach destination wedding is so exciting! There is a lot to do, so we put together six tips to make it easier:
1. Location
Your first decision is where to have the wedding. Keep in mind that not everyone will be able to take the time to go to a destination, and there may be people who can’t afford it.
Once you have chosen the location, it is a good idea to go there and check it out so that there are no surprises on your big day. This is a big investment on your part, so this is worth doing.
The venue should be suitable for your budget, the size of your party, and your style.
2. Best Beach Wedding Locations
The Dominican Republic has many large resorts that make everything easier by having on-site wedding planners.
The Bahamas is a Canadian favourite, offering many different and unique kinds of venues for weddings and receptions.
Barbados makes it easy to marry. Getting a wedding permit is well-organized and takes the stress off your plate.
3. Have a Backup Plan
It may not seem romantic, but you have to consider that Mother Nature might not cooperate on your special day. Rent a tent, just in case it rains. If nothing else, it can be used for shade.
Shade is something that would be welcome if you have your ceremony in the afternoon. The time of day can affect your wedding. For some people, being in the hot sun for too long is something they can’t do.
4. Hire a Wedding Planner
Consider a wedding planner. No matter what, the final decisions are yours, so don’t worry about being shut out of the planning process.
But if you are going to a destination, it is helpful to have someone familiar with the destination and one that can take care of things such as beach permits and documentation, and warn you so that you don’t end up booking your destination wedding in hurricane season.
5. What to Wear
A beach wedding is not so formal, but not informal. A piece of lightweight fabric is in order, and an updo for the hair is probably a good idea. It can get windy, and a veil and long hair could cause problems!
6. Make the Ceremony Enjoyable
Arrive early to the ceremony spot to make sure that everything is set up to your liking. Make sure that everyone has good directions to get to the ceremony and a way to get in touch if they have trouble finding it.
Have a container set aside so people have a place to put their shoes so they can go barefoot on the beach, and provide things that will make your guests comfortable, like sunscreen, bug spray, beach umbrellas or blankets. Refreshments such as ice water or lemonade should always be available to help keep people hydrated.
Wherever you choose to have your wedding, and however you choose to do it, enjoy your day, and make memories to last!