How do I plan a wedding on the beach?

A beach wedding is beautiful, but it needs careful planning around the elements. First, check the legal side. In England and Wales, a civil ceremony must take place at a register office or an approved venue. A public beach is not usually approved, so you may need a short civil ceremony elsewhere and a symbolic ceremony on the beach. In Scotland and Northern Ireland, the rules differ, so check with the local registrar or your celebrant. Humanist ceremonies can be legal in Scotland and Northern Ireland, but not in England and Wales on their own.

If you are having a symbolic beach ceremony, you can be more flexible. Choose a beach with permission from the landowner or local council, and check for any permits or restrictions. Think about tides, so plan the ceremony at low tide if you want to be near the water. Also consider the wind, which can blow hair, sand and paperwork around.

For guest comfort, provide shade, water, and a clear path for anyone with mobility issues. Have a backup plan for rain, such as a nearby shelter or a marquee. Keep the ceremony short, and consider using a microphone if the beach is noisy. For the reception, choose a venue nearby so guests do not have to travel far in wet clothes.

Think about what you will wear, as heels sink in sand. Barefoot or flat shoes work well. Also plan for the tide and sunset times for your photographs.