In a world in which the pandemic is still raging, we will see a lot more beach weddings this year. Smaller, outdoor ceremonies will replace the larger indoor ones. In 2024, it’s likely that many celebrations will take place at the shore or on the beach. This could be anywhere from the Hamptons, to Miami, to Malibu, and beyond. These ceremonies will not be the low-key bohemian affairs that we have seen in the past. Even the loved aesthetic of a bohemian wedding has evolved. It’s easy-going, but has more facets now than ever.
Some beach weddings will be updated with ball gowns walking down the aisle , while others may host dinner around a firepit on the sand. It may feel like a two-part event, with a relaxed ceremony at the beach followed by an extravagant dinner in a tent. You can host a beach wedding in a variety of ways. Here are 12 ideas to help you plan a beach wedding.
1. Grasses everywhere
You may have grand installations, such as urns and archways, in your gardens or ballrooms. But you chose the beach to marry because of the convenience and spectacular view. Frame your ceremony using natural grasses which look like they are sprouting out of the sand. This design is a great inspiration for creating a spiral aisle that cascades and weaves like the waves.
2. Wed In Color
On the beach, you can let go of all traditions that no longer serve you. Don’t wear white if you don’t like it. Skip the long gowns, full-skirted dresses, and strapless necklines if they are not your style.
Bridal fashion has been restricted by tradition, rules and ideals for a long time. But some of these mainstays are now restrictive to brides who want to dress more daringly. There are no rules anymore, and wearing color could feel more authentic to you than wearing ivory. Think about your surroundings; blues or shades of the sky, blushes at sunset, or champagnes on the beach will feel perfect.
3. Remain Calm
If you are planning a beach party or ceremony, it is important to keep your guests cool. High temperatures will make them uncomfortable. You should plan ahead and consider their needs and wants as they relax in the sun. Instead of leaving guests to fan their own hair with their program, anticipate their needs.
Parasols, ice water and chic fans packaged in a stylish and convenient way are a nice touch. You can make sure that guests have the right tools to cool themselves in the sun, to drink from, or to fan themselves.
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4. Bridal Swim
Dress appropriately for the weather and the location. If you’re planning a beach wedding, you may want to consider wearing swimwear to the ceremony. You can also wear a two-piece or maillot inspired outfit for the small ceremony. Or, you could simply pack a variety of clothing for poolside lounging, late-night swimming, and ocean dips.
5. Accept anything that is local
Are you getting married in a tropical location? Opt for the local flowers. Celebrate on the coast. Serve local seafood. Serve local seafood.
It’s not necessary to be so absorbed in the locale that your event feels like a themed party. Instead, you should focus on bringing out your individuality and as a couple. Being aware of the local talent and products available can elevate your event and make it stand out from other beach affairs.
6. Photos and Vide
It might be difficult to get good lighting at a beach wedding, so be sure to work with seasoned photographers and videographers. Enjoy yourself and all the surrounding natural beauty by letting go.
A memorable wedding day can be created with the backdrop of a sunset and the distant sound of breaking waves!
7. Simple Glam
It may seem obvious, but beach weddings call for a more natural look. Forget the red carpet makeup and super-done hair. Instead, opt for a look that looks effortless.
The concept does not mean that your hair or skin will look unattended, nor should you forgo a glam squad to attend your event. Work with your makeup and hair artists to achieve tousled hair, beach curls, or natural waves.
8. Dining in a Restaurant Style
Instead of setting up long communal dinners or traditional tables, encourage conversation and a relaxed energy amongst guests by using beachside restaurant-style seating arrangements that are authentic to the way guests would normally enjoy meals on your chosen property.
This service style is also conducive to security precautions. Guests can be seated outdoors in smaller groups, by family or pod. You want to host a formal dinner at your reception. For your brunch, welcome dinner or rehearsal dinner, stick to this style of dinner service.
9. Schedule an engagement session
Don’t just leave the beach after exchanging vows. Make sure you and your photographer schedule a photo session on the wedding weekend, ideally before guests arrive. You’ll treasure these photos for many years.
This is not a set of photos you can use to create your wedding website or save the date. Leave that to your graphic designer. These are images you will display at home and share with family and friends.
10. Vibrantly colored tables
Use bold colors that fit your sunny environment. When choosing a color palette, keep in mind your location. Tropical destinations might inspire brighter shades of orange, red, and yellow while coastal and nautical settings may require a variety of soft and bold blues.
Do not be afraid to use prints or layers of them, such as with complementary printed menus, colorful glasses, and a lot of colorful florals and vessels. Your table setting should make you smile just like a trip to the seaside.
11. Ballgowns at the Beach
Beach weddings do not necessarily require slim figures. Take risks and be bold. Even on the sand, opt for a full-length skirt. But choose a lighter fabric, such as tulle layers, to prevent overheating.
You’ve chosen a place where you can be carefree. Don’t obsess about everything being rigid, structured and perfect. You can move easily in fabrics like the crinkled tutu (shown here), even if you’re wearing a ball gown.
12. A Authentic Getaway
The traditional sparkler getaway at the end has seen its day (and more). Instead of choosing the traditional, choose a departure at the end or after the ceremony that is unique to the location. You can choose to rent a jeep for a Caribbean wedding, or a vintage car in Palm Beach, Miami, or a boat as you bid your guests farewell.
Read More: 5 Rewarding Benefits of Hiring a Professional Wedding Planner