Pulling Off a Beach Wedding Close to Home

Imagine... a beautiful sunset, a cool breeze, sand beneath your feet and sharing it with the love of your life. This, my friend, is a beach wedding. But before you make that beachfront reservation, let’s explore this location to see if it is the right fit for your celebration.

Do you have visions of a flowing fairytale gown with a mile-long train? Do you wish to walk down the aisle with an audience of 300 and the sound of a pipe organ in the background? Do you prefer to manage each detail of your day and not leave anything to chance? If so, a beach location may not be the best choice.

However, if you are looking for a less traditional setting that is more relaxed for you and your guests, then a beach wedding has wonderful possibilities. Here are some thoughts to consider.
 

ATTENDANCE

Keep in mind that location can influence attendance. It is important to reserve your beach destination early and send out save-the-date cards. Traveling requirements for your special day may result in a smaller guest list. Also, older guests sometimes find it difficult to reach the beach or walk on the sand. Your wedding ceremony will likely be an intimate celebration with close family and friends. Fewer attendees may also help lower costs.

STYLE

A beach wedding is considered a non-traditional style of wedding. But don’t let that prevent you from including your favorite customs. A minister, music and flowers can all be incorporated in the ceremony to match your personality and style. Just be prepared to take into consideration the one factor that you or your vendors cannot change—the weather.

WEATHER

Mother Nature can be fickle, especially here in Southwestern Michigan. With a beach wedding, it is crucial to have a backup plan so your guests don’t have to stand outside in the pouring rain on your big day. Check with your reception venue—it may allow you to hold your ceremony and reception on site in case of bad weather. Southwestern Michigan is home to many breathtaking beach locations that are surrounded by a mix of venues that allow you to keep celebrating rain or shine.

Remember, a beach wedding is a chance to do something different—create island-style fun for your guests. You don’t have to hold your wedding near the lake or ocean to replicate the relaxed, by-the-water setting. A swimming pool, river or any body of water can help you have the perfect beach-style wedding.

As you start planning, whether you choose a beach setting or a more traditional one, be sure and take time to stop, breathe and relax. Remember, this is your day! Enjoy it. Now, what do you say, shall we meet you at the beach?