Beach, Please! Here’s the Pros and Cons of Planning a Beach Wedding

March 20, 2021

There are a lot of details to take into account when planning for a beach wedding — most couples aren’t sure where to start sometimes! We think it’s important to consider all of the pros and cons before getting into the details (and so there’s no additional surprises on the big day). To make things easy we’re laying them out here for you! Trust us, we’re pros.

Beach, Please! Here's the Pros and Cons of Planning a Beach Wedding
Photography by Caroline Thomas Photo

PROS

Romantic Waterfront Views

Getting married in front of the peaceful waves at sunset is all sorts of romantic! One of the biggest pros to getting married on the beach is the view. Whether you’re directly on the sand or in a nearby gazebo, you’ll be able to enjoy a picture perfect backdrop.

Laid-back Location and Attire

Heels not your thing? No need for them on the beach! Getting married on the beach lends itself well to a laid-back vibe and more relaxed attire for both the wedding party and guests. 

Beach, Please! Here's the Pros and Cons of Planning a Beach Wedding
Photography by Ledia Tashi Photography

Vacation Getaway for Any Guests

Turn your wedding weekend into a getaway! It’s ideal for guests to extend their stay a bit longer to soak up some sunshine and treat themselves to a little vacation when they’re already heading to the destination. This is especially a great option for any families traveling with kids to enjoy! 

All-Inclusive Venue Options

Most of the beachfront hotels offer package options to consider when booking your wedding venue, reception location or planning a rehearsal dinner. They also can offer honeymoon options if you plan to stay after your wedding to enjoy — a lot of these honeymoon packages can include aquatic activities, special room rates and more!

Beach, Please! Here's the Pros and Cons of Planning a Beach Wedding
Photography by Kelly Stinson Photography

Cut Down on Decor Costs

Enjoy the natural beauty around you when getting married on the beach! You’ll likely be able to cut down on decor costs, keep things minimal or focus on the areas that you truly care about when planning your overall budget.

Beach, Please! Here's the Pros and Cons of Planning a Beach Wedding
Photography by Indigo River Photo 

CONS

Weather Unpredictability

With getting married outside comes weather unpredictability. Especially in tropical locations, the chances for a rain shower are high depending on what time of year you’re getting married. Not to worry though, we plan ahead for any potential weather delays on your day!

Beach, Please! Here's the Pros and Cons of Planning a Beach Wedding
Photography by Caroline Thomas Photo

Facing Higher Humidity 

In a place like Florida, you’re going to experience higher humidity than most other places around the world. With that, it’s important to stay hydrated and prepare accordingly with hair and makeup. You’ll want to make sure that your makeup is heavier duty and can last the longer hours in higher temperatures. 

Beach, Please! Here's the Pros and Cons of Planning a Beach Wedding
Photography by Kelly Stinson Photography

Lack of Privacy

Of course, there’s the chance that you’ll have bystanders or visitors when you get married in a public location. There are a handful of more private beach locations, especially those attached to specific resorts, to consider to avoid people in the background of your wedding ceremony photos. 

Tides, Sand and Seagulls

Mother nature can be unpredictable! Make sure that your ceremony or reception setup is far enough inland so that it’s not susceptible to high tide (may be beneficial to check the tide chart on your wedding day in advance). Another key note for both the wedding party and guests, sand can get HOT throughout the day. If you’re planning to be barefoot or in open shoes, have a backup on hand just in case. Also make sure that your food isn’t uncovered or accessible to seagulls! There’s nothing worse than having them interrupt your nuptials by swarming for food scraps.

Beach, Please! Here's the Pros and Cons of Planning a Beach Wedding
Photography by Caroline Thomas Photo

Keeping Floral Alive

An important conversation to have with your florist ahead of time — your flower selections and how they will hold up in the heat. Some floral options (especially white flowers) can wilt or turn color quickly under the sun. It may be wise to hold on putting out the floral decor as long as possible to keep your blooms in the best shape on your wedding day.

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