10 Beach Wedding Ideas

Looking for 10 beach wedding ideas? Even though a beach wedding is already themed, there are more specific details that can add to the overall experience of the day. Some beach weddings are nearly as formal as church weddings, while some are extremely casual. Take a look at these beach wedding ideas to make your special day unique to you and your bride.

1. The invitations. Invitations are the first step in setting a wedding theme. Some couples planning a beach wedding get creative with tiny seashells, adding them to the front of their invites. Even if you keep the invitation traditional, throw in a little beach theme to tie them into the overall ceremony.
2. The favors. Wedding guests love to leave with a little something to remember the day by. There are lots of options for beach wedding favors. Consider using shells, either in their natural state or personalized, as mementos for your guests.
3. The dress. Most beach brides aim for a simple summer dress, but your lady can get more creative than that. For instance, try out some nautically-inspired dresses. Keep in mind that long dresses will get dirty fast in the sand and will end up being a hassle; it is best to opt for a shorter style. For the groom, consider a dashing sailor outfit. The outfits of the maids of honor and groomsmen can conform entirely to the nautical theme or you can just add a touch of navy blue and a sailor’s hat to tie them in.
4. The atmosphere. It’s usually wise to not have beach weddings midday because of the heat. Most couples opt for late morning or dusk to be wed. Adding atmosphere is easy with dusk weddings. Candles in jars placed in the sand can line the aisle as well as the altar and add a beautiful foreground to the ocean backdrop. In this vein, consider having members of the wedding party carry candles as well.
5. The centerpieces. If you’re planning on having your reception on the beach as well, keep in mind the possibility of wind. Make sure the centerpieces are firmly grounded to the tables. Consider candles embedded with seashells to provide light and add to the theme.
6. The bouquet. Depending on the beach, different flowers may be native to the area where you are getting married. Consider something simple and airy, like blue bells or baby’s breath, instead of the more traditional roses and lilies. It’s also a good idea to keep the bouquet simple if flowers aren’t a major part of the overall décor.
7. The ceremony. Since formality can end up feeling out of place at a casual beach wedding, speak with your justice of the peace before the ceremony about not only what he will say, but what he is planning to wear. Since priests tend to dress conservatively, some simply take off their shoes so they match the mood of the ceremony.
8. The cake. Beach wedding cakes vary quite a bit. Some couples choose a light, fruity cake to accompany their casual wedding, while others get creative by matching the cake to the beach theme with sand castle cakes and the like. Consider the many cake options, from traditional to imaginative, before choosing this important aspect of your wedding day.
9. The gifts. For couples who already have a household set up, it’s often a good idea to choose an organization to have guests donate money to in your name instead of bringing gifts. To tie this in to your wedding theme, consider an ocean-oriented organization or a more general environmental organization.
10. The getaway. The beach lends itself to alternative getaways instead of the standard limo. Consider riding a horse into the sunset with your bride either doubled up or on her own steed. With water so close, boating is another option. Whatever you decide, make sure both you and your bride are comfortable with it so your departure as husband and wife is smooth and comfortable.