- Rain? In this geographical area, we have mostly scattered showers. So we wait 10-20 minutes for the cloudburst to pass then go outside in between them. Most ceremonies are 5-15 minutes long and the broken clouds make lovely photography backdrops too! For the rare all-day downpour, please have a realistic alternative location secured. More info about why the local weather is this way, CLICK HERE.
- Flower petals on the beach Please-Please-Please! only use REAL, live, flower petals. Protect innocent wildlife…silk and artificial petals are pollution on the beach. Also fake petals kill seaturtles and birds who eat them as they scavenge.
- Elderly and handicapped guests may struggle with the heat, long boardwalks, stairs, and shifting, soft sand. Consider videotaping the ceremony for them, or ask us for advice on easier locations nearby.
- It’s normally windy here. Your hair, veils, short skirts, and decorations flap and might fly away! Hair flapping in your eyes is a nuisance and looks terrible in your photos! Pin and spray hair solid and firmly.
- Dress to be yourself. Consider colorful, beach-y dresses and shirts and light pants/shorts; maybe bare feet in the soft sand (maybe toe and ankle bling instead!). But ladies, if you are heart-set on that gorgeous wedding gown and special shoes, please go for it! Be yourself! The more color you bring to a bleached white & beige beach photograph, the better. Color celebrates! Think colorful ribbons, flowers, clothes, etc.
- Rings and sand are a potential loss hazard. Consider putting rings in a single ring box or small drawstring bag just in case of dropping a ring …especially if a nervous, young ringbearer is carrying them.
- Please know exactly where your ceremony is with a trial run to it beforehand. Day of, make plenty of time to get there…seriously, vacation traffic jams easily delay you for more than an hour! No kidding! So please leave extra time to drive to your wedding.Tell your guests too.
- Children included? Designate a childcare person instead of you. You should enjoy your own ceremony with your new spouse. Appoint a trusted adult for potty, snacks, hugs, kisses, distraction, safety, etc.
- Don’t try to own difficult family and guest’s issues during this time. You don’t need to mediate fights, or compromise too much, or do anything but ENJOY YOUR wedding and YOUR day! Guests need to show respect for you and your wedding.
- When you leave home or hotel for your ceremony, bring a folder or bag with your marriage license, money owed to vendors (cash is best), and any other needed papers.
