An oceanside wedding offers couples the opportunity to say “I do” surrounded by nature’s beauty, with waves crashing on the shore and the sun setting over the horizon. That’s about as picturesque as it gets! However, as magical as this sounds, there are considerations to keep in mind when planning a romantic seaside celebration.
These include the weather’s unpredictability and the logistics of sound and accessibility. But with thoughtful planning, an oceanside wedding can be the unforgettable experience you’ve always dreamed of.
What To Keep In Mind When Considering Oceanside Wedding Venues
The weather is one of the most important considerations for any outdoor wedding, especially an oceanside celebration. Coastal climates are known for their unpredictability, with sudden shifts in temperature, strong winds, or unexpected showers. For example, if you plan to get married in July, you’re likely expecting warm, sunny weather. However, even July weddings can bring cool breezes or unexpected storms along the coast. It’s essential to plan for both the best and worst weather conditions.
Wind is another factor to consider, as it can interfere with the ceremony, sound system, and beach wedding decor. Choosing sturdy décor and securing lightweight items like flower arrangements or centerpieces to prevent them from blowing away is a must. Additionally, you may want to use windbreaks or partitions to keep guests comfortable. The sound of the ocean can be both a blessing and a challenge when planning your wedding. While the gentle sound of waves can create a calming atmosphere, it can also compete with your ceremony and reception sounds.
Ensuring Clarity For Your Ceremony
For larger ceremonies, where the beach is an integral part of the experience, investing in a quality sound system is crucial. Wind and crashing waves may make it difficult for guests to hear the vows or music, so ensure that microphones are used for the officiant and anyone speaking. A professional sound technician/DJ familiar with outdoor setups will ensure your ceremony runs smoothly without interference from the natural elements.
Accessibility For All Guests
An oceanside wedding often involves sand, dunes, or rocky terrain, which can pose challenges for accessibility. If you have elderly guests or people with mobility issues, consider how they will navigate the location. Rent beach wheelchairs for those who are not as mobile. Ensure there are accessible walkways or ramps leading to the ceremony and reception areas. Incorporating wooden boardwalks or rugs over the sand can help guests walk more comfortably. It’s also important to think about seating—using chairs with sturdy legs that won’t sink into the sand is critical.
Oceanside Wildlife
Depending on the time of year and location, you may encounter various bugs, such as mosquitoes or sandflies, especially during the evening. To keep pests at bay, it’s wise to provide insect repellent for your guests or incorporate citronella candles into your beach wedding decor. Remember that seagulls and other birds may also take an interest in your food, so ensure catering is prepared to keep meals and snacks covered until serving.
Tidal Considerations
You may not have thought about this, but it’s very important to consult a tidal chart to ensure your wedding is not interrupted by a rising tide. Most coastal weddings are planned with the tides in mind to avoid high water levels that could interfere with seating, decor, or even the ceremony space itself. Schedule your ceremony during low or mid-tide to ensure you have ample space and won’t be caught off guard by water creeping up the shore.
Finding Seclusion On the Shore
One of the main drawbacks of a beach wedding is the potential lack of privacy. Public beaches are, by their nature, accessible to everyone, and finding a completely private area may be difficult. If you’re set on a public beach for your wedding, be aware that you may have beachgoers in the background or even passing through the ceremony area. For a more private experience, consider securing a more secluded section of the beach or renting a private beachfront venue. This will give you more control over your setting and ensure that your celebration feels intimate.
Oceanside Wedding Venues Offer an Unforgettable Experience | Trust Jodi Raphael Events
Though a perfectly controlled environment isn’t possible outdoors, the stunning backdrop of the sea, combined with thoughtful and careful planning, makes for an experience that’s hard to top.
Whether planning a grand Cape Cod wedding or something more intimate on the North Shore, an oceanside ceremony will be a breathtaking reflection of your love story, surrounded by nature’s beauty.
As Massachusetts wedding planners, we’ve worked with many oceanside wedding venues and have dealt with all the beachy challenges you can imagine, so contact us today to work with a team you can trust!
