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                The Pros & Cons of Beach Weddings  | 
             
            
              by: 
                Cindy English  | 
             
            
              
 Beach weddings are popular but they do present "special 
 issues". Failing to consider these ahead of time could leave 
 you unpleasantly surprised on your wedding day!  
 
 There is certainly nothing that should dissuade you from 
 your vision of a beautiful seaside ceremony. As a matter of 
 fact, there are many benefits.  
 
 Just know the issues and plan for them. Your wedding day 
 will be a wonderful and joyous event!  
 
 
 The "Pros" 
 
 * A beach wedding can be much cheaper than a traditional 
 wedding. Who in this day and age can't afford to save money? 
 It is said that the average budget for a wedding these days 
 is between $20,000 to $30,000! That is an enormous and 
 unnecessary financial burden to be faced with!  
 
 Don't start off married life enslaved by your wedding day 
 debts. If you have that kind of money to spend, fine, but if 
 not, don't go there! Be practical and remember, the day is 
 what you, your loved ones and your friends make of it...not 
 how much you spent on it!  
 
 * A beach wedding can be a casual affair. It allows everyone 
 to relax. Your guests can dress comfortably and affordably. 
 Often brides-to-be are unaware of the financial strain they 
 place on their wedding attendants and guests. Not everyone 
 can afford to buy that wedding outfit.  
 
 * The wedding ceremony and reception can all be held right 
 there on the beach. No need to travel to different 
 locations. This is very convenient for everyone. Hey, even 
 the kids can have fun at a beach wedding!  
 
 * A beach wedding allows you to involve everyone in the 
 activities. Guests are not restricted to sitting quietly in 
 their seats. They can actually be a part of the celebration! 
  
 
 * Beach weddings don't always require a permit. If you are 
 having a small ceremony and do not require a section of the 
 beach to be blocked off...just do it! Simple yet lovely!  
 
 * A beach wedding is a modern and refreshing change from the 
 "stodgy" traditional wedding. It allows your creativity and 
 personality to shine through.  
 
 * There is no "right" or "wrong way" to plan a beach front 
 wedding. It can be large, small, romantic, whimsical or even 
 downright goofy! You can pay big bucks and hire everything 
 out, or, you can be cheap and make everything yourself. The 
 choice is completely yours!  
 
 
 
 
 The "Cons" 
 
 * The most important thing to remember when planning a beach 
 wedding is that "Mother Nature" rules! Depending on her 
 mood, she can brighten your day or rain on your parade! When 
 planning your celebration, be sure to plan an "alternate 
 location" should the old girl be cranky that day!  
 
 * The beach is usually a bit breezy so take that into 
 consideration when picking your location. Try to choose a 
 "cove" on the beach that is protected from direct winds.  
 
 * Be sure to check with local authorities regarding any 
 permits needed to use the beach. This should only be 
 necessary if you are having a large gathering and you want 
 to block off a portion of the beach exclusively for you and 
 your guests. Ask to be sure though.  
 
 * Check on the "Beach Rules". Ask questions. Can you have 
 candles on the beach? Can you play music into the night? How 
 late can you stay? Is there an area nearby for open fires 
 should you choose to barbeque?  
 
 * Speaking of food...don't forget about the seagulls! They 
 are notorious beggars and thieves. You can expect them to 
 attend your beach wedding, uninvited! As long as you keep 
 food covered and don't feed them, they will stay on the 
 sidelines.  
 
 * Remember the tides. You definitely do not want to be 
 surprised by the quick and unanticipated arrival of high 
 tide!  
 
 * On the beach, there will be bugs and sunshine! Make sure 
 you consider the comfort of your guests. Bring sunscreen and 
 insect repellant for those who did not remember to bring 
 their own.  
 
 * Chairs may sink in the sand if you do not rent flooring to 
 place under them. However, if you are planning a "beach 
 blanket" reception, you will not need chairs. Remember your 
 elderly guests though. Plan for their safety and comfort. 
 You will need to provide them with chairs and beach 
 umbrellas to protect them from the elements.  
 
 
 Beach weddings are absolutely beautiful but nature does 
 provide an element of uncertainty. Careful planning on your 
 part will eliminate most of them. Just remember...  
 
 If every hair is not in place due to the ocean breezes or a 
 seagull drops off his "wedding gift" a little to close to 
 the punch bowl...  
 
 These are not flaws or imperfections in your day. They are 
 "memories"! Cherish them and have fun!  
 
  
  
 About the author: 
  
  Cindy English is the publisher of Beach-Wedding-Themes   where you will find ideas for beach wedding themes full of  fun, fantasy and romance. Discover new places to shop and  things to make at:  beach-wedding-themes  .beach-wedding-themes  email: beachwed beach-wedding-themes  
  
   
   
   
   
   
   
 
 
 
 
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