Photo credit: ABM Photography

Beach Wedding 101

When you’re wedding planning in Southern California at some point you may have considered having your wedding at the beach. You’ve dreamed of the sun setting in the background, cool breezes in your hair, the smell of the salted sea, and your toes in the sand. Your dream can quickly turn into a nightmare if you’re not prepared. Here is a list of potential issues that you may run into and how to plan accordingly.

The Sun and Heat

The sun can be more intense at the beach when it’s reflected back from the water or the sand. Have parasols in your wedding colors that guests can grab and use to shade themselves. You may want to have sunglasses waiting on their seats just in case they forgot or they’re using prescription glasses. Remember, if you’re having a sunset wedding on the beach on the west coast that means your guests will be looking directly into the sun. Also, never underestimate the need for hydration. For your guest’s convenience, have buckets of ice with water bottles at the ceremony site. Reminder: It only takes minutes to burn at the beach. Protect your guests by handing out sunscreen favors (See example here).

The Marine Layer and Morning Drizzle

If you’re from San Diego, you know what Marine Layer is and it’s not always your friend. Timing is key here. Marine layer clouds are low altitude stratus clouds that form over ocean waters that typically happen during the summer months. While Californian’s refer to this as “Graypril”, “May Gray”, and “June Gloom”, this weather pattern can hold fast well into August. As the day warms up, it typically will burn off depending on how thick it is. It is a good idea to have towels on hand in case of drizzle between the time your chairs are set up and the start of the wedding.

Planning a Beach Wedding in Oceanside? Request an Oceanside Wedding Guide.

[Photo Source]

The Sand

Let me just get this out of the way…Please do NOT attempt one of those papery aisle runners in the sand. Between the wind, the uneven surface, and your wedding party tripping on it, it’s going to end up being a big ole mess by the time you walk down the aisle. All of those pretty pictures you see of a pristine aisle runner are BEFORE any guests have been around it. Instead, line the aisle with petals, décor, and candles. If you must have an aisle runner, consider putting down wood planks first or renting a carpeted one.

In your wedding invitation warn guests that the ceremony will be in the sand so they’ll know to wear appropriate shoes and clothing. (See example here) Have you ever gotten sand stuck in your tights? Ugh! (Note: On days of intense sun the sand can burn!)

Photo courtesy: Anything But Ordinary Catering

The People

The beach is a public space. While you can politely always ask beachgoers to move, they have the right to not budge. Think of the normal activity that you see on a beach: volleyball, soccer, Frisbee, football, horseshoes, bocce ball, bonfires, BBQs, etc. This activity is not going to cease because it’s your wedding day. Location is going to be the key here. Choose a remote part of the beach where you can lessen the impact of beachgoers. Know what is happening around town and in the travel industry as a whole. Don’t plan a beach wedding around spring break, in peak summer months, or any of the holidays. Check the city calendar for other large events that could create a conflict with your wedding such as surf contests or large sporting events. Just be prepared and give your guests directions and parking information so they’re not caught off guard. Note: Most Southern California beaches, including Oceanside, do not allow beach weddings during peak tourist season (Memorial Day to Labor Day).

Photo Courtesy:City of Oceanside Parks and Recreation

The Wind

It’s usually a little cooler at the beach thanks to our coastal breezes. This is great when you’re trying to escape the heat, but it’s not always convenient when it comes to weddings. Consider having your hair in a tight up-do to keep it firmly in place and maybe forego the veil as well. The bridesmaid’s dresses shouldn’t be in danger of being blown upward either. As far as your décor goes, keep it simple and secure. Too much draping could catch the wind and blow over your arch. Plan to hand out programs or anything that could blow away to keep the beaches clear of unwanted trash and debris.

Photo courtesy: Top Shelf Photo

To preserve our beaches, the City of Oceanside would like you to join their Road to Zero Waste movement by leaving no trace and remembering your three R’s: Reduce, Reuse, Recycle. Take nothing but pictures and leave nothing but footprints when visiting Oceanside’s beaches. For more information on this program, visit GreenOceanside.org

Looking for tips on how to have a green or eco-friendly wedding? Check out our Green Oceanside Wedding Blog

The Tide

As any surfer will tell you, it’s all about the waves. You must make this tide chart your friend. For the most sand possible and the least chance of a wedding washout, you’ll want to schedule your wedding as close to low tide as possible if your location has limited beachfront. The beaches north of the pier and adjacent to the harbor have plentiful sand so just make sure your placement isn’t too close to the shoreline if tides are on the rise.

The Accessibility

We’re very lucky to have beaches in Oceanside which are a straight walk from the parking lot to the shore line, but some of the beaches have only stair access. If you have elderly guests or those with disabilities, this will not work. Also, if you have guests with any kind of impairment when walking, the sand alone proposes a challenge. Make sure there is a way for them to be dropped off close, have escorts ready to help them along, and keep the ceremony close to the road. Several beaches in California have a complimentary beach wheelchair program, including Oceanside Pier and Oceanside Harbor beach. Contact Oceanside’s Lifeguard Services at (760) 435-4018 for more information.

The Alternatives

Coastal cities embrace the beach lifestyle so we have a host of alternatives from restaurants to resorts that will give you that “beach feel” without the elements. In Oceanside, CA wedding ceremony sites that are just steps from the sand include:

Read more about Oceanside’s Ocean Side Weddings

Oceanside Marina Suites – If the idea of feeling like you’re on your own private island appeals to you, you will not want to miss this venue. This hotel features a wedding gazebo for your ceremony and a lush green lawn perfect for receptions. There is nothing but a few rocks between you and the harbor mouth leading out to the expanse of the Pacific Ocean.

SpringHill Suites – The second floor deck holds stunning views of the Oceanside Pier and a sweeping ocean view for a wedding ceremony or a cocktail reception. They take “Laid Back, Southern California Beach Cool” to new levels with their weddings and receptions. Let them make your day as elegant, or casual as you wish, but with a beach flavor.

The Strand Gazebo and Tyson Street Park – These oceanfront parks are available by permit year-round. They are easily accessible for vendors to set up and for disabled guests as there is beach-level handicapped parking at both parks. While you won’t have your toes in the sand, you’ll still be beachfront and have gorgeous views.

Come tour Oceanside Wedding Venues during our Wedding March Venue Tours and Vendor Shows happening in March. Click here for details: www.visitoceanside.org/weddingmarch

The Permit

Are you ready to commit to your having your beach wedding? You most likely will need a permit no matter what beach you choose and restrictions do apply. Contact Visit Oceanside for information on how to get a permit from the City of Oceanside to have your wedding on the beach.