Beach Wedding Frequently Asked Questions

Q: Where do I start?

A: Pick a location & find out legal requirements. Contact a wedding planner on the area or if you’re doing it yourself make sure you get the necessary permits.

Q: Do we need a wedding planner?

A: Not necessarily. It just takes a lot of time to plan it on your own, so if you think you don't have enough time or knowledge then yes, you would need a wedding planner.

Q: What is a destination wedding?

A:A destination wedding is when you travel to get married in another place other than your hometown.

Q: Is a destination wedding legal?

A: Yes, your marriage will be legal. Each place has regulations you have to follow.

Q: Are destination weddings cheaper than a traditional one?

A: Not, necessarily. It depends on the location you select, the time of the year, the number of guests, whether or not you will pick up the tab for your guests’ travel, the wedding theme, etc.

Q: Do I have to pay for travel or accommodations for guests?

A: No. You are not expected to pay for travel or accommodations for guests. 

Q: What is Save the Date?

A: Save the Date is a card or a letter that is sent several months before the wedding, far enough in advance so your guests can consider weather or not they’ll be able to attend.

Q: Invitations or Announcements?

A: Invitations are only sent to those that you intend to have present at your wedding. Announcements are mailed to everyone else after the wedding.

Q: When do I send the formal wedding invitation?

A: Formal Wedding Invitations should be sent about 6 - 8 weeks before your wedding.

Q: What kind of shoes should I wear for a beach wedding?

A: Obviously heels would be out of the question since they would sink into the sand. Flip flops, wedge heels or barefoot sandals are adequate. 

Q: What is an OOT bag?

A: The OOT bag (Out-of-Town) bag is a welcome bag given to your out of town guests to thank them for traveling so far to be at your wedding.

Q: What is in the OOT bag?

A: Typically they are filled with a mix of personalized items and/or local souvenirs.

Q: How do I get my dress there?

A: If you are flying, you can usually make arrangements with your airline in advance. First-class cabins have large closets that can be used for bridal gown storage or you can pack it and have it as one of your checked items but you’d have to consider if you have enough room in your suite case and how wrinkled it might get. You can also ship your dress, but it could be very expensive and it might not get there.

Q: How do I safely transport my wedding items to my Destination Wedding?

A: You can make arrangements with your airline. Also, you might want to consider contacting vendors on the area and buy them there.