The Pros & Cons of Beach Weddings

Beach weddings are popular but they do present "special
issues". Failing to consider these ahead of time could leave
you unpleasantly surprised on your wedding day!

There is certainly nothing that should dissuade you from
your vision of a beautiful seaside ceremony. As a matter of
fact, there are many benefits.

Just know the issues and plan for them. Your wedding day
will be a wonderful and joyous event!

The "Pros"

* A beach wedding can be much cheaper than a traditional
wedding. Who in this day and age can't afford to save money?
It is said that the average budget for a wedding these days
is between $20,000 to $30,000! That is an enormous and
unnecessary financial burden to be faced with!

Don't start off married life enslaved by your wedding day
debts. If you have that kind of money to spend, fine, but if
not, don't go there! Be practical and remember, the day is
what you, your loved ones and your friends make of it...not
how much you spent on it!

* A beach wedding can be a casual affair. It allows everyone
to relax. Your guests can dress comfortably and affordably.
Often brides-to-be are unaware of the financial strain they
place on their wedding attendants and guests. Not everyone
can afford to buy that wedding outfit.

* The wedding ceremony and reception can all be held right
there on the beach. No need to travel to different
locations. This is very convenient for everyone. Hey, even
the kids can have fun at a beach wedding!

* A beach wedding allows you to involve everyone in the
activities. Guests are not restricted to sitting quietly in
their seats. They can actually be a part of the celebration!


* Beach weddings don't always require a permit. If you are
having a small ceremony and do not require a section of the
beach to be blocked off...just do it! Simple yet lovely!

* A beach wedding is a modern and refreshing change from the
"stodgy" traditional wedding. It allows your creativity and
personality to shine through.

* There is no "right" or "wrong way" to plan a beach front
wedding. It can be large, small, romantic, whimsical or even
downright goofy! You can pay big bucks and hire everything
out, or, you can be cheap and make everything yourself. The
choice is completely yours!

The "Cons"

* The most important thing to remember when planning a beach
wedding is that "Mother Nature" rules! Depending on her
mood, she can brighten your day or rain on your parade! When
planning your celebration, be sure to plan an "alternate
location" should the old girl be cranky that day!

* The beach is usually a bit breezy so take that into
consideration when picking your location. Try to choose a
"cove" on the beach that is protected from direct winds.

* Be sure to check with local authorities regarding any
permits needed to use the beach. This should only be
necessary if you are having a large gathering and you want
to block off a portion of the beach exclusively for you and
your guests. Ask to be sure though.

* Check on the "Beach Rules". Ask questions. Can you have
candles on the beach? Can you play music into the night? How
late can you stay? Is there an area nearby for open fires
should you choose to barbeque?

* Speaking of food...don't forget about the seagulls! They
are notorious beggars and thieves. You can expect them to
attend your beach wedding, uninvited! As long as you keep
food covered and don't feed them, they will stay on the
sidelines.

* Remember the tides. You definitely do not want to be
surprised by the quick and unanticipated arrival of high
tide!

* On the beach, there will be bugs and sunshine! Make sure
you consider the comfort of your guests. Bring sunscreen and
insect repellant for those who did not remember to bring
their own.

* Chairs may sink in the sand if you do not rent flooring to
place under them. However, if you are planning a "beach
blanket" reception, you will not need chairs. Remember your
elderly guests though. Plan for their safety and comfort.
You will need to provide them with chairs and beach
umbrellas to protect them from the elements.

Beach weddings are absolutely beautiful but nature does
provide an element of uncertainty. Careful planning on your
part will eliminate most of them. Just remember...

If every hair is not in place due to the ocean breezes or a
seagull drops off his "wedding gift" a little to close to
the punch bowl...

These are not flaws or imperfections in your day. They are
"memories"! Cherish them and have fun!

-----------------------------------------------------------

About the Author

is the publisher of Beach-Wedding-Themes.com
where you will find ideas for beach wedding themes full of
fun, fantasy and romance. Discover new places to shop and
things to make at: http://www.beach-wedding-themes.com