The Basics 

Sure, exceptions abound, but on the whole the beach wedding's a relatively intimate affair with a short (and often inventive) ceremony.

You'll often see couples penning, or at least assembling, their own vows, plus tossing in creative unification ceremonies and readings drawn from Native American customs, tropical sand ceremonies or simply their own imaginations.

The Colors 

White on white or pastel blue isn't an unusual, but a good proportion of beach brides go with punchy colors reminiscent of the tropics ... ones that won't get washed out even in the glare of midday sun.

Eye-popping brights like orange and fuchsia are popular combos. So are bright aquas paired with lime green or coral.

Favorite Photos 

The Attire 

Casual elegance rules the day for the royal couple and guests alike. This bride's gown will often be a little more informal than her indoor counterpart's. You're more likely to see gowns made of whisper-light material, like satin, draped in uncomplicated, figure-hugging silhouettes.

You'll also find alternative fabrics, like cotton or linen, and shorter hems on the whole (tea length dresses and flyaway veils are a great combination for seaside brides). Some brides, in fact, will turn to a well-designed sundress or a white bridesmaid's or cocktail dress to get the unfussy lines they're looking for.

As for the groom, you're less likely to see a tux (what a way to broil!), but white linen suits will keep all the male members of your wedding entourage looking and feeling cool. Sports jackets and slacks is about as formal as it gets.

The Food 

Beach eats are one of the best things about these weddings (after the decor). Combine crab or lobster and champagne, and what else could anyone crave in life, except a bit of bread and melted butter?

Beach weddings take unpretentious indulgence to the highest heights, with clam bakes, lobster, bubbly, perhaps a few Belgian brews, and ... hot dogs.

Decorations by Mother Nature 

And another great thing: it's pointless to get too obsessed over the decorations — no tulle bow is going to compete with that sweeping backdrop.

So keep it simple, but revel in how easy it is to add some elegant bridal touches here and there. Dress up the wedding arch with large pale sand dollars and starfish. Scatter the aisle with rose petals, or line the path with tiki torches.

Many brides plant shepherd's hooks in strategic locations, and hang lovely floral arrangements or lanterns. Roses in ultra-bright colors are perfect for the shore, as are blooms with a more exotic bent, such as orchids or Asian lilies. Gerber daisies are favorites, too, with their affordable price point and eye-popping hues.

Tips and Tricks for a Smooth Experience 

Nothing's more romantic than candlelight on the beach, but if you flirt with the flames, keep them well under glass. Any candle not barricaded on all sides is bound to blow out, and fast.

Having a cake? Keep it cool and shaded. Plus, skip the buttercream -- it won't stand up to beach temperatures. Go for fondant instead. Same thing with chocolate -- it not only melts in your mouth, it melts in your favor boxes and gift bags too when you're not in a temperature-controlled environment.

Don't forget to keep your guests hydrated, and don't make them stand (or even sit) in the sun for more than a few minutes. Keep plenty of sunblock on hand, be sure to have a tent, and try passing out signature popsicles or customized favor fans.

Seaside Wedding Arches 

I had always wanted to get married in a very casual and relaxed atmosphere. Lik...

Jodie and Brant's WeddingThis was a very yummy cake! It was chocolate cake w...

These were lining the path to the arch on the beach where Justin and Laura were ...

Beach Favors at FavorIdeas 

More Great Places for Planning Beach Weddings 

Beach Wedding Favors

An enormous selection of elegant favors, hand fans, programs and more for that outdoor affair.

Nautical Wedding Favors

Set sail for marital bliss with these sporty, east-coast favors and gifts.

Travel & Destination Wedding Favors

Heading to lands far, far away, where palm trees and perfect temperatures abound? We've got the favors and accessories to round out the day.

Love on the High Seas: A Pirate-Theme Wedding

Don't laugh -- we all know Johnny Depp brought pirate chic to an all-time high. And this couple proves it, with a whimsical, heart-warming (yes!) backyard pirate wedding.

Message in a Bottle Invitations: Perfect for Your Beach Wedding

Those little invitations-in-a-bottle bring a little jolt of delight to everyone who gets one. And they're easy to make, too. We tell you how.

Great Ideas (and Photos!) for Beach Theme Wedding Cakes

No question about it: beach wedding cakes are natural beauties. Some of the most effortless-looking glamour queens out there, the design often just flows into the perfect visual package. Seashells, starfish, coral and cake — what's not to love?

So Many Beach Weddings, So Little Time ... 

Runaway Bride? 

Not only do beach brides arguably get the best pictures during the ceremony, they also have a corner on outstanding post-wedding shots as well. A newish trend in wedding photography, archly called "Trash the Dress," often involves some truly fantastic shots of the bride and her gown wading or rolling in the surf.

Not for the bride who sees her gown is an heirloom, for sure ... but for the bride who values her dress more for its experience quotient, these pics are often sublime.

Beach Bride Feedback 

Give us your hard-won beach wedding tips, your burning questions ... or just leave a note.

Janet21 Nice lens! You are invited to join my Let's Party Group. Janet~ Posted February 24, 2008

angeleena Cool lens! Some really interesting ideas for wedding. 5 stars from me!!! Pls check out my lenses if you have time Wedding Hair Ideas and Long Hair Beauty. Thx. Posted July 01, 2007

lenal Some really great suggestions especially for favors. Posted June 29, 2007

Bill Urell

I live right near several beaches in southern FL and there are a ton of beautiful places to be explored. Looking for the 'perfect place' is more than half the fun.
Bill
http://www.squidoo.com/BadRelationships/ (how to fix 'em)

Posted May 25, 2007