Life is a beach “wedding” 5-18-2009

In San Diego, we do alot of weddings on the beach…yes it is beautiful, but just remember-

1. Tides. They change daily and throughout the day. Make sure you check a tide chart (which may not be correct ) to make sure there will be a beach on your wedding day and that you don’t set up too close to the water in the morning while the water washes away your ceremony site in the afternoon.

2.  Wind.  The wind  can pick up by the beach. I have seen many brides with their veil in their face during the ceremony. Also, make sure your florist secures your decor so it does not fly away.

3. Sound. With the waves behind you, it is very hard to hear what the officiant and  bride and groom are saying.  Hire a sound company so all guests can hear.

4. Parking.  Usually very limited.  If you can afford to have guests park in a lot and shuttle them in or have your guest’s park at the reception site and pick them up there and bring to the beach and back.

5. Sun.  It can be hot and smack in your guests’ eyes especially if you are getting married around sundown. I coordinated a wedding in La Jolla..had the parasols for the guests, bottled water, sunglasses on every chair…it was foggy that day… sometimes you just don’t know at the beach.

6. Sandals. Nice to have a place for guests to take off their shoes if they want and put on (supplied by you) sandals, they will appreciate the option!!

7. Privacy and Reserving your spot.  Set up your chairs early to reserve your space, make sure you acquire a permit as soon as you know your location to make sure it is ok to hold a wedding there. If the beach is not secluded, you will have the public watching you  while wearing shorts and bathing suits.

Embrace the above, plan ahead and have the beach wedding you have always dreamed of!