Mobility!
Though the picture of a couple & their guests barefoot on the beach is romantic, it is not that practical unless your visitor list is on the small side. Walking on sand can be gauche & older guests may not feel comfortable doing so. Some beach locations don't permit for seating so your guests may must stand throughout the service. As an alternative, think about a ceremony set up on a boardwalk or grassy mound that overlooks the beach. After the vows, the bride, groom, & photographer can go down to the beach for those special shots.
If your ceremony is held directly on the beach, you'll be wanting to choose for a dress that is no longer than tea length. As your guests will be barefoot , it makes sense to notify them that the event is casual.
What to wear!
Most beaches are wide open without any tree cover to provide shade. Depending on the season & location of the beach, guests at midday events run the risk of getting scorched by the sun. Keep in mind that besides the air temperature, the sand gets hot . Actually, in some locations, it may be downright uncomfortable or painful to walk on the sand. You may need to schedule a morning wedding or at dusk to keep away from any heat-related issues.
Excellence of the sand!
Some beaches are powdery soft whereas others & scattered with pretty seashells. At some beaches, you & your guests may need to wear sandals to prevent being cut on shells or coral.
If your wedding is at midday, you run the risk of sun scowl. (That is right. A million pics of the bride & groom squinting at each other as they recite their vows.) Before the marriage, go to the beach at the time your wedding is slated for & decide which way to face in order to diminish scowl & discomfort for the bride & groom & guests.
Noise!
You need your guests to listen to every word of the ceremony & the vows that took hours to write. However, a beach can be a noisy place. Be positive that your ceremony is not set up close to the crest of the waves hitting the seashore. (Outgoing tides are quieter than those coming in so you may need to check a tidal graph before selecting your ceremony time.)
Bugs & Insects!
Depending on the season & ceremony time, mosquitoes or other uninvited vermin may become a trouble. Light citronella candles or make positive everyone applies bug repellant before arriving to the beach.
Getting permission!
Lots of beaches are civic or on the grounds of a state park. You'll need to get check local ordinances & get the approval of the county clerk's office or the management of the park. In lots of cases, you'll also must pay a fee for a sanction. These governing agencies will also let you know if chairs, arches, open flames (candles), & musicians are allowed on the beach..
