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Essential Considerations When
Planning Your Beach Wedding
Getting away and having a beach wedding is one of the best ways to beat the stress of getting married. More importantly, it's one of the cheapest ways to get married these days.
So, if you don't want to end up in lots of debt, a beach wedding is a great option. Before you go down this route though, make sure you consider these points:
Weather
Tropical islands are idyllic places. They're relaxing, romantic and away from all the stresses of life in the UK. But weather-wise, they can be wild and unpredictable.
If you're choosing a beach wedding, make sure you check the weather for your destination at your preferred time of year. Rainy season can put a real dampener on things!
Which destination to choose?
Choose your destination with care. The further away you go, the more difficult it will be for friends and relatives to attend. The general rule of thumb is greater distance = higher costs.
Stay closer to home and you'll be able to have more of your loved ones at your ceremony and it will be cheaper for you too!
Don't forget to give your guests plenty of notice. They will need time to make their travel arrangements. (Save the Date cards are really useful in this instance).
Legalities and Permits
Many island paradises offer wedding services, but it's essential that your marriage is legal in the UK. Check with the consulate or embassy to make sure that the ceremony and paperwork are legal.
Permits are also important. You will need to provide all your formal documentation to the authorities in the country where you are getting married. Give yourself plenty of time to pull all the bits of paper you need together. You're likely to need originals of the following:
- Valid 10 year passport
- Birth certificates for both the bride and groom
- Affidavit or certificate signed by a notary public indicating your marital status and that you are free to marry. This document must be signed, dated and stamped. Legal documents are only valid for 6 months, so make sure it is dated within 6 months of your wedding.
- Death certificate (if a widower or widow)
- Decree Absolute (if a divorcee)
- Adoption certificate (if adopted)
- Deed pole certificate (if you've changed your name)
- If under 18, a letter of consent from your parents or guardian, which must be stamped by a solicitor)
If you're using a hotel or resort, they will usually specify when and what documentation you need to send in advance or bring with you.
See also my section on Questions to Ask Your Beach Wedding Organiser.
When to have your wedding ceremony
Initially most couples think that it's best to get married as soon as possible on their trip. This way they can get straight into their honeymoon and start enjoying life as man and wife.
Hold fire!
Many countries specify that you must be resident for a set number of days before the ceremony. This actually works in your favour as you can get over your jetlag, start to relax and work on your tan before your beach wedding. It will also give you the chance to make some friends who can come to your party afterwards!
The time of day is important too
With the sea, sand and your lovely white wedding dress, the glare of light will be really intense. So take into consideration the time of day you have your ceremony. You don't want to be squinting, but equally you don't want to be walking down the aisle wearing shades!
A simple canopy will provide welcome shade from the sun, avoid the most intense hours between 12pm and 3pm.
The best time is early evening or dusk as the light isn't so harsh and you could finish the ceremony watching a glorious sunset.
Insurance
Whenever you go on holiday, you should always get insurance. You never know what might happen. This is especially true if you're planning an important celebration. It will give you peace of mind.
The state of the beach
Having set your heart on a romantic beach wedding, you would be hugely disappointed if your dreamy white sand turned into small pebbles!
Beware. Beaches vary in quality.
Make sure you get a picture of the beach, and location on the beach, of where your ceremony will take place. This will ensure you don't get any nasty surprises.
The lapping waves
When you're away on holiday, the lapping of waves is one of the most relaxing sounds you hear. It's also one of the noisiest!
If you're having a beach ceremony and reception, consider how noisy the waves will be. You'll want to make sure your loved ones can hear your vows! Outgoing tides are less noisy!
Pesky uninvited guests
With warmer climes, come more interesting and exotic creatures. There is likely to be lots of bugs and mosquitoes, so make sure you wear bug spray! Citronella candles can be lit to keep the mozzies at bay as well as add some mood lighting.
Birds too can be annoying. If you're planning on an outdoor reception by the beach or in an exotic location, then seagulls, monkeys and other pesky creatures could be problem.
Keep an eye on your costs
Wedding abroad are great for brides on a budget. You can control your costs much more easily. However, there are still opportunities to overspend and get caught out. So, make sure you ask all the right questions.
Watch the add-ons offered by the hotels and resorts. Keep track of everything you request and think carefully before going crazy!
Related articles:
Choices For Wedding Dresses On The Beach
Tips From A Real Beach Bride
Top Destinations For Weddings Abroad
Tips For Transporting Your Clothes
Cakes, Favours, Flowers, Stationery and Decor For Weddings Abroad
Budget Wedding Packages Abroad
Questions To Ask About Your Wedding On The Beach
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