Beach Wedding DOs and DON’Ts

We’ve done many beach destination weddings throughout the years including Puerto Rico, Cayman Islands, Little Cayman Island, Arizona, California, Cancun, and Aruba just to name a few. I think destination weddings are great.  We’ve done small intimate affairs with 75 guests as well as large weddings with 250 people. There are a few things I’ve learned over the years that are a MUST when you’re planning your beach wedding. 

The Dos and Don’ts of a beach wedding:

·        DO plan accordingly when having a wedding on the beach and have the ceremony in the evening when the sun is going down.  Imagine how beautiful a sunset ceremony on the beach would be.   

·        DO make the event comfortable for yourself and your guests.  My suggestion no matter the cost, have the wedding under a tent.  Also, remember to have plenty of liquids being served. Recently we were at a wedding where the guests had options of 5 different types of tropical juices. They were delicious.  The guests were enjoying the ceremony and stayed cool.  Also renting portable fans or misting fans can be immensely helpful. Check with the local rental companies or the hotel. Trust me your guests will appreciate it.

·        DO make sure to read through all the contracts properly since you will be working with the vendor via email or phone.  It’s very important you relay your vision to them so there are no surprises the day of the event.  For example when dealing with your décor vendor remember to clarify your flower selection, your color scheme, delivery time for decor, set up time, what will they do incase of rain, and what if it’s windy how will they weigh everything down. 

·        DO make sure to check with the hotel for availability of any special items you may need while at the destination.  Recently, we did a beach wedding where the bride’s mother forgot to bring dry coconuts for the wedding ceremony. There was absolutely no place on the island where they sold dry coconut.  We got lucky! The groom’s mom had brought a few extra coconuts. Another example is printed materials such as guest itinerary for the welcome bags.  Making photocopies at the hotel will cost you an arm and a leg.  Also remember to bring things such as medication or baby formula. You might not be able to find these specific items on the island. 

·        DON’T over book your guests.  They are making a special trip in your honor but definitely remember to give them some down time for the beach. 

Keep these few things in mind and your event will be on track to being a success.