So now that spring is coming and everyone is remembering how nice it is to feel some warmth from the sun, it's a popular time of year for couples to decide that they want to get married abroad – and not just abroad but actually on the beach.
Adapting your wedding planning to a beach setting
Sun, sand, sea, what's not to love? Weddings on the beach are romantic in lots of ways, but it inevitably changes the way you need to plan your wedding. Here are a few wedding planning sticking points for you to consider.
Before we go any further, there is one important question to ask:
Which is more important: the wedding on the beach or having lots of guests?
If you get married abroad, it's inevitable that you will have a smaller guest list – perhaps this is even one of the reasons why you want to do it! But if you are tempted by the sunshine and sand, take a moment to consider who you really want to be there, and ask yourself if they will be able to come. If they have financial problems, small children, will be in late pregnancy on the day or are elderly, those people are unlikely to be able to attend no matter how much they want to.
Minimum period of residency
Some countries require a minimum period of residency before your wedding ceremony can take place, which obviously has a big impact on when you need to fly out and how long you need accommodation for before the wedding itself. Santorini requires eight days for example, whereas Malta only requires two. Find out as far in advance as possible, so you can accommodate that required period in your plans.
Paperwork for weddings abroad
Depending on where you plan to get married, it may be easier to have a register office wedding in the UK, and then a romantic ceremony abroad. If you want to go for the whole shebang on the beach though, you will both definitely need your passports and birth certificates (often only the originals are accepted). If you are adopted, divorced, widowed or have changed your name by deed poll you may need additional paperwork to prove your identity and marital status. Some countries require that you have official translations of these documents, a 'certificate of no impediment' and also have complex procedures to obtain a marriage license once you arrive in the country.
Some countries (e.g. Mexico) also require you both to have mandatory blood tests in the resort itself.
Sound like a nightmare? Well, if you take the time to do your research early on, you will have plenty of time to get it all in place.
Beach bride beauty tips
It goes without saying that being sunburnt in your wedding pictures is something you want to avoid. If you are un-tanned when you arrive, gradually increase your exposure to the sun if you want to be less pale in the photos, but be extra careful as the sun can be so much stronger abroad.
When choosing your make-up, look for foundation that has SPF to give you that extra protection too. Waterproof eye make-up is a good idea, as is having blotting tissues in case you get very hot and start to…glow.
Before you travel, test several different deodorants if the one you currently use is inadequate for very hot climates – you don't want to discover you're allergic to it when you arrive! Choose a perfume that is free from alcohol to reduce the likelihood of it reacting in the strong sunlight.
Don't forget your toes! You're likely to be barefoot, so have a pedicure and take care of those tootsies as they are likely to be on display!
Beach bridal wear tips
Perhaps this is obvious, but it bears saying anyway; go for natural fabrics, and preferably a dress that isn't lined with an artificial fabric (as many summer dresses are) as the heat will quickly make the dress uncomfortable.
Forget the dainty satin bridal shoes – this is one of the rare times it will look great to be barefoot so why not feel the sand between your toes as you say 'I do'?
Consider a fancy brimmed hat or a decorative parasol to not only accessorise your dress, but also keep the sun off your head.
Flowers for a beach wedding
It's undoubtedly better to either go for silk flowers that won't be affected by the heat, or to consult a local florist who will know the best flowers to use in that climate.
Are you planning a beach wedding? Any tips to add here? Let us know in the comments!
