There’s no denying the natural beauty of a coastal wedding, but it does come with its own set of unique challenges. Whether you’re planning a tropical destination wedding or hosting your nuptials closer to home, here are three key things to keep in mind.

Choosing Your Seaside Wedding Destination

Seaside weather can be unpredictable, with high winds possible and not a lot of shade available to escape the scorching sun. Researching potential destinations’ weather patterns at various months of the year will help you time your wedding wisely and avoid rainy or stormy seasons.

That said, in the dry season, the sun can be troublesome for some guests—especially if both your ceremony and reception are outdoors. To help everyone feel more comfortable, consider having your ceremony in the late afternoon or early evening when the temperatures are cooler. This will also ensure the lighting is softer—perfect for your dreamy photos.

Another important thing to consider when selecting your ideal coastline is the sustainability of the venue and local area. Choosing a beach that is well looked after not only ensures flawless backgrounds for your photos but also supports global initiatives to reduce the impact of tourism on the ocean. As you’re benefiting from the beautiful natural scenery, it can be good to take care of your celebrations in return.

Dressing For the Coastal Setting

Your coastal backdrop is bound to be gorgeous, but if you have decided on a summer wedding, it may also be breezy, hot, and a little humid. Opt for lighter, flowy fabrics for your wedding attire in order to stay comfortable, with natural, breathable materials such as linen rather than polyester mixes. This will help you avoid sweaty photographs, and lighter fabrics look great in the breeze.

Be sure to account for uneven ground, avoiding high heels unless your venue has solid flooring laid out across the sand. Of course, you should always alert your guests of the setting as well, so they can come prepared with shoes and outfits suited to the environment.

If you prefer the idea of a coastal wedding outside of the warmer seasons, be prepared to battle stronger winds and the possibility of rain. Having a selection of umbrellas or a contingency plan in place to move inside is a great way to cover all of your bases. Any well-planned outdoor wedding always has a backup plan in case the weather takes an unexpected turn, regardless of the season.

Adding Thoughtful Touches to Your Seaside Wedding

No one wants a sweaty or sunburned guest list, so be sure to provide thoughtful touches to your wedding to maximize your guests’ comfort. Think shaded seating and plenty of water for a summer ceremony on the beach, and remember that sunscreen, hats, or handheld fans can double as thoughtful wedding favors. Or, if your event will extend into the evening or be at a cooler time of year, think about adding cozy touches like blankets or space heaters to keep everyone comfortable as the temperature drops by the water’s edge.

When compiling your guest list, be sure to factor in the accessibility of your chosen destination. Aside from the more obvious challenges surrounding travel, inquire how easy it is for people to get on and off the beach. Check if there is a ramp for disabled access, and consider how far and steep of a walk it is to get from your venue to the seafront. 

Enjoy Your Dreamy Coastal Wedding

Finally, don’t forget to check local regulations; many beaches require permits or have specific rules for hosting events. A coastal wedding can be a breathtaking experience if you plan ahead carefully, so keep these tips in mind for a beautiful and seamless day.