Here are the top three disasters that could wreck your beach wedding and tips for avoiding them:

1.    Weather

Make sure you have a backup plan for the possibility of RAIN on your special day!  When considering your beach location, see about nearby pavilions or indoor facilities that you could easily transfer your ceremony to as a last-minute option.

◊ TIP: If you are having your reception indoors, consider the option of moving tables and chairs around to have your ceremony at that location in the case of rain.

If you are planning to have your beach wedding during a month with historically heavy rainfall, you may consider renting a tent for your outdoor ceremony.  You can check the average temperatures and rainfall in US cities here.

You can probably count on WINDY conditions for your beach wedding!  You should consider this when choosing the style of your wedding dress and the fabric– You may want to avoid light fabrics like chiffons.

◊ TIP: Tell your hairstylist that you are having a beach wedding so he/she knows to use plenty of hairspray. Men should consider using pomade or other styling gel products.

2.    Unwanted Guests

As you prepare to walk down the sandy aisle you want to be sure you look up to see the faces of your family, friends and loved ones– NOT the unsightly view of strange beach-goers in Speedos and bikinis as they stop to embrace the beautiful moment along with you and all of your guests!

◊ Consider having your ceremony during a less-popular time of day for those happy-go-lucky beach goers.
-OR-
◊ Choose an isolated location to avoid any UN-wanted guests!

Make sure your wanted guests are comfortable during your beach wedding ceremony! If the weather is HOT, provide your guests with ice-cold bottles of water before they are seated.

◊ TIP: Print your wedding program on a fan– which would also make a great keepsake for your guests!

3.    Permits

If you choose to have your wedding on a private beach, you probably have to go through a local wedding planning company– They will include a beach wedding permit in your wedding package.

If you are planning your wedding on your own and plan to use a public beach, be sure to find out if a beach wedding permit is needed.  If the beach is state owned you will probably need a permit, but sometimes written permission may be enough.  Contact the local city government or city parks department to find out what is required.

◊ TIP: Research rules and regulations concerning candle or torch lighting and trash removal too!

The Nuptial No-Nos

• Avoid short, flowing skirts and dresses that can easily blow upwards and wear something long (such as a pencil skirt) and tailored instead. Windy beach weddings are notorious for untimely exposures.

• Nix the high-heeled shoes that will sink into sand, mud or grass. Flats or stacked heels will be easier to maneuver on nature’s carpet.

• If the wedding will take place at midday when the sun is at its peak, refrain from wearing dark suits and jackets that will attract and absorb heat. Lighter-weight clothing is a much cooler option. A jacket that can be easily removed will come in handy if the celebration lasts into the evening or the day turns warmer or cooler than expected.

• Don’t wear hosiery, heavy makeup or chunky jewelry in hot, humid climates or you’ll melt.

Attire That Says “I Do”

• A dressy linen pantsuit would be nice and cool for an outdoor wedding. Pair it with a chic, floral-print top, and your ready for a garden wedding, or with sassy flats for the beach.

• Keep your summery yet sophisticated look by wearing sleeveless dresses, strappy sandals and glowing skin.

• Just as important as WHAT to wear is HOW to wear your hair.  Keep hairdos under control in hot weather with upswept styles that will remain neatly in place, no matter what Mother Nature dishes out.

• For outdoor weddings, don’t forget the accessories. No, I’m not talking about jewelry and purses but umbrellas, sunglasses, makeup blotting papers (or powder) and an extra pair of flat shoes just in case.

Extra Tip: For destination weddings, selecting a knit dress that resists wrinkles will keep you looking your best when you arrive or after unpacking.

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