According to census.gov, there were over two million weddings in 2011! With spring and summer steadily approaching, destination, particularly coastal weddings, are a hot item. Planning a wedding can be challenging enough, and choosing a venue at coastal location can come with the need to travel, while weather is often an unpredictable variable that can require a back-up plan.
Location, Location, Location!
The location of your venue will set the overall style and mood. A yacht club or coastal resort sets a formal tone, while a lakeside boardwalk or a sandy beach creates a more casual vibe. Think about how many guests will be attending and how big or small your venue needs to be. It’s important to think about who your guests are and choosing a style and location that accommodates them. If children are attending, thinking about the safety of your venue is extremely important. Luckily, many marinas and boardwalks lining beaches are equipped with guard rails, safety poles like bollards, and railings. But more unpopulated, exotic locations aren’t as likely to have these features. How many people can your venue hold? Beach weddings are relatively small.
Do Research and Start Early!
Part of finding the right location for you and your guests is doing your research. Know how popular your venue of choice is, how far in advance it should be booked, and what type of regulations, laws and permits exist in your location. Public beaches often require detailed reports of the items and equipment planning to be used. What are the clean-up options for your location? How is parking? Will the climate affect preparation like food, the need for a canopy or the way your guests dress?
How You Dress
Humid beach and lakeside climates are not always the best for hair and makeup. You and your bridesmaids may be sweating, so remember that when picking out the fabric of dresses and suits. Find a stylist that understands how to do hair and make up for humid weather.
Let People Help You
Delegate work to people whose opinions you respect and trust. Hire someone who is familiar with the town and can guide you to the best of the best and give you insight into venues and locations that only a local may not know.
Be Flexible
Outdoors means you’re at the mercy of Mother Nature so keep flexibility in mind as things may happen. Have a worst-case scenario back-up plan if the weather does not permit you to move forward with plan A. But remember, this is supposed to be the happiest day of your life! If things happen, don’t sweat it! What’s important is that you’re celebrating and officiating the love between you and your partner in the company of your closest family members and friends.
Photo: Real Weddings Anna and Hannah, photography by Torie McMillian Photography; Real Weddings Jerry and John, photography by Karen Lisa Artistic Photography
