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The Pros &
Cons of Beach Weddings
by: Cindy English
Beach
weddings are popular but they do present "special issues".
Failing to consider these ahead of time could leave you
unpleasantly surprised on your wedding day!
There is
certainly nothing that should dissuade you from your vision of a
beautiful seaside ceremony. As a matter of fact, there are many
benefits.
Just know the
issues and plan for them. Your wedding day will be a wonderful
and joyous event!
The "Pros"
v
A beach
wedding can be much cheaper than a traditional wedding. Who in
this day and age can't afford to save money? It is said that the
average budget for a wedding these days is between $20,000 to
$30,000! That is an enormous and unnecessary financial burden to
be faced with!
v
Don't start
off married life enslaved by your wedding day debts. If you have
that kind of money to spend, fine, but if not, don't go there!
Be practical and remember, the day is what you, your loved ones
and your friends make of it...not how much you spent on it!
v
A beach
wedding can be a casual affair. It allows everyone to relax.
Your guests can dress comfortably and affordably. Often
brides-to-be are unaware of the financial strain they place on
their wedding attendants and guests. Not everyone can afford to
buy that wedding outfit.
v
The wedding
ceremony and reception can all be held right there on the beach.
No need to travel to different locations. This is very
convenient for everyone. Hey, even the kids can have fun at a
beach wedding!
v
A beach
wedding allows you to involve everyone in the activities. Guests
are not restricted to sitting quietly in their seats. They can
actually be a part of the celebration!
v
Beach
weddings don't always require a permit. If you are having a
small ceremony and do not require a section of the beach to be
blocked off...just do it! Simple yet lovely!
v
A beach
wedding is a modern and refreshing change from the "stodgy"
traditional wedding. It allows your creativity and personality
to shine through.
v
There is no
"right" or "wrong way" to plan a beach front wedding. It can be
large, small, romantic, whimsical or even downright goofy! You
can pay big bucks and hire everything out, or, you can be cheap
and make everything yourself. The choice is completely yours!
The "Cons"
v
The most
important thing to remember when planning a beach wedding is
that "Mother Nature" rules! Depending on her mood, she can
brighten your day or rain on your parade! When planning your
celebration, be sure to plan an "alternate location" should the
old girl be cranky that day!
v
The beach is
usually a bit breezy so take that into consideration when
picking your location. Try to choose a "cove" on the beach that
is protected from direct winds.
v
Be sure to
check with local authorities regarding any permits needed to use
the beach. This should only be necessary if you are having a
large gathering and you want to block off a portion of the beach
exclusively for you and your guests. Ask to be sure though.
v
Check on the
"Beach Rules". Ask questions. Can you have candles on the beach?
Can you play music into the night? How late can you stay? Is
there an area nearby for open fires should you choose to
barbeque?
v
Speaking of
food...don't forget about the seagulls! They are notorious
beggars and thieves. You can expect them to attend your beach
wedding, uninvited! As long as you keep food covered and don't
feed them, they will stay on the sidelines.
v
Remember the
tides. You definitely do not want to be surprised by the quick
and unanticipated arrival of high tide!
v
On the beach,
there will be bugs and sunshine! Make sure you consider the
comfort of your guests. Bring sunscreen and insect repellant for
those who did not remember to bring their own.
v
Chairs may
sink in the sand if you do not rent flooring to place under
them. However, if you are planning a "beach blanket" reception,
you will not need chairs. Remember your elderly guests though.
Plan for their safety and comfort. You will need to provide them
with chairs and beach umbrellas to protect them from the
elements.
Beach
weddings are absolutely beautiful but nature does provide an
element of uncertainty. Careful planning on your part will
eliminate most of them. Just remember...
If every hair
is not in place due to the ocean breezes or a seagull drops off
his "wedding gift" a little to close to the punch bowl...
These are
not flaws or imperfections in your day. They are "memories"!
Cherish them and have fun!
Cindy
English is the publisher of
Beach-Wedding-Themes.com where you will find ideas
for beach wedding themes full of fun, fantasy and romance.
Discover new places to shop and things to make at:
www.beach-wedding-themes.com
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