Planning the Perfect Beach Wedding: Dress Accordingly!

Many people choose to go the beach wedding route to lower stress, and ensure that their wedding is about exactly what it should be -- having the time of their life with their future spouse, and closest friends and family. That said, there are certain unique things to keep in mind when planning for a destination wedding. Destination Wedding Magazine provides a great list of tips and suggestions for planning the perfect destination wedding. Over the next few days, I'll be going over different components of planning such an event. To start: Dress Accordingly

Skip the big dress. Let’s face it: A ballgown belongs in, well, a ballroom. “You may be able to get down the aisle in a full dress and long train,” notes Paulette Davis of Bahamas Wedding Planner, “but walking on the beach and taking photos won’t be easy. If a large dress is a must, make sure it can bustle easily.”

Think light. “Dresses with lace trim can be difficult because they pick up debris from the beach,” says Kate Bentley of Happily Ever After Wedding Planning & Design in Key West, Florida. “Instead, choose a lightweight fabric like chiffon or charmeuse so your gown flows in the ocean breeze.”

Nix the veil. “When marrying outside, think twice about a long veil,” cautions Stacy Mulcare of Ceremonies of St. John. “If it’s windy, it will be a nightmare for you and the photographer.” Instead, accessorize your ’do with fresh flowers or a fascinator.



Consider an updo. “Think of the elements when deciding on a hairstyle,” says Beth Helmstetter of Beth Helmstetter Events in Los Angeles. “A tried and true updo will keep you looking polished all night.” Larissa Banting of Weddings Costa Rica suggests doing a trial run at your location. If wearing your hair down is the only option, Helmstetter recommends investing in the services of a stylist, who can do touch-ups throughout the day.

Ditch the heels. Sand and high heels just don’t mix. “Wear flat-sole sandals, espadrilles or wedges — shoes that won’t sink into the sand,” says Banting. Have your gown hemmed with or without shoes, depending on which option you choose. “Remember, sand can get pretty hot. Have an aisle runner made of fabric or thick flower petals to help keep your tootsies cool.”

Avoid tan lines. “Be very careful of sunburn and unwanted tan lines,” advises Somchit Srimoon of Thailand Weddings. “Constantly apply waterproof sunscreen, especially while swimming.” Adds Tara Soloway of Luxe Destination Weddings: “This goes for the bride, bridesmaids and mothers of the bride and groom. Everyone knows what they’re wearing in advance, so they should plan bathing suits accordingly.”

Via Destination Wedding Magazine

Let your guys go informal. “While many brides envision their groom in a tux, black wool is a no-no in tropical climates,” says Helmstetter. Allister Simmons of the Bridal Suite Bermuda Weddings adds, “We save the ‘penguin suits’ for our many beautiful chapels and churches. Lightweight cotton pants or even Bermuda shorts are great options for the beach.”