The Basics of Planning A Beach Themed Wedding

by Rose Smith, Copyright 2004

A glorious sunset, a gentle breeze and your love by your side. This is the romantic vision that usually comes to mind for couples panning a beach theme wedding. However, the realities of planning such a wedding can be a bit more confusing and stressful. Here are some guidelines that you need to take into consideration to help you keep things under control.

Checking Rules and Regulations Regarding Beach Use

You will need to plan carefully for your beach wedding. There are many laws and guidelines regarding the use of beaches and each varies according to the location you are in. If it is just you, your mate and a marriage official, then there will be no problem for the most part. However, you can’t just trod out onto an area of a beach with a bunch of people and have a wedding. You will first need to get permission to use the beach (whether it’s a public or private beach) and then determine what is allowed. Here are some questions you should get answered:

* Have you checked to see if the beach you have in mind can be used for functions such as this? Is it a public beach or a private beach?

* Do you require a special permit to use the beach for a wedding? If so, where do you obtain one and how much does it cost?

* Are there any restrooms nearby that can be used? Keep in mind, most of the restrooms found on beaches are basically outhouses. Will your guests want to use such a facility?

* Are there any recreational buildings nearby that can be used for preparing food, washing dishes, restroom ruse, running electricity to the beach area, or can used in case a storm suddenly pops up.

* Are you permitted to erect large tents to be used as shade or to protect food from direct sun?

* What are the regulations regarding smoking on the beach and the serving of alcohol? Many public beaches won’t permit either. Private beaches tend to be more lenient provided you keep all cigarette butts in a container and make sure the beach is carefully cleaned after the festivities.

* Are you allowed to have a bonfire? What other regulations are there regarding the use of tiki torches, candles, lanterns, etc?

* Can you have a specific area of the beach designated for your wedding to keep other beach goers from interrupting your occasion?

* Are you allowed to serve food? Are there any waste cans available for garbage or must you supply your own?

The above questions should help in confirming what regulations are in force when using a beach for a wedding ceremony and/or reception. Of course, that is only part of the equation. There are many more questions that need to be answered and will be addressed in Part II of this article.

Rose Smith is the owner of Wedding Themes and More, a website designed to help you discover your perfect wedding theme. Find more great ideas, resources and articles on our Outdoor and Garden themed wedding page.