Coastal weddings and why they’re a popular choice

A coastal wedding is a popular choice for many couples wanting a uniquely memorable day, and it’s not very hard to see why. After all, few settings provide a more stunning backdrop to the pictorial record of your special celebration; so much so that your décor needs could well become less elaborate, plus you can enjoy it all without paying for an expensive venue where the focus is on the indoors.

There’s also a distinctive soundtrack, in the form of crying seagulls and crashing waves, which heighten the atmosphere, and which you simply won’t get anywhere else.

At the same time, a coastal wedding venue typically offers plenty of space, so you may be able to accommodate more guests. There should also be plenty of flexibility in the way your order your day. You’ll have the freedom to create an occasion that’s personal to you.

Guests have the option to combine your wedding with a short (or long!) holiday of their own, while the atmosphere is generally relaxed and laidback, especially if you have exclusive use of the venue for the duration.

And, above all, there’s just something about a coastal setting as a location for exchanging your vows that’s so unbeatably romantic.

If you’re considering a coastal wedding venue, bear the following in mind:

• Double-check the venue’s licensing to be sure you can be legally wed there.
• If you’re planning on having your ceremony outdoors, or are celebrating al fresco, have a back-up plan in place in case you all need to take cover.
• Clearly, you and your guests will also need to choose your wedding attire wisely – check the forecast and be prepared for all weathers.
• Think about timings – so that, for example, you get a gorgeous photo against a breathtaking coastal sunset.
• Think of themed ideas such as providing sandals and sunglasses or a fan-shaped Order of Service in high summer.

Choosing wedding flowers for a ceremony by the sea

Clearly, no marriage celebration is complete without wedding flowers. Just remember that, even at the height of summer, you’ll often have to take into account a stiff breeze at coastal weddings by the sea. So if you’re having floral arches to frame your ceremony, make sure they’re nice and sturdy.

Consider a bouquet that can withstand potentially extreme temperatures, changing conditions and strong winds, while still looking elegant against the background of the sea. Equally, it’s no bad idea to keep things simple, both in terms of the arrangements themselves and the associated greenery. With coastal weddings, less is often more, so try not to overdo it.

Ask your wedding florist for recommendations as to what would look best in your chosen location, and which blooms may be in season. But some favourites, for coastal and indeed other marriage settings, include roses, calla lilies, daisies, anthurium, poppies, orchids and peonies.

And, as with all weddings, choose flowers to suit your colours and theme. Above all, they need to reflect your unique style and personality.

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Becky

Meet the award-nominated UK lifestyle blogger behind Spirited Puddle Jumper – a mum of three living in South East London! Becky shares the real ups and downs of family life, parenting tips, and lifestyle inspiration, proving that being a mum doesn’t mean you stop being fun or having other interests! Follow along for honest insights into UK family life and opinions on a whole range of topics, from travel and food, to beauty reviews, home and DIY, business and health and wellness.