Planning a beach wedding
What to tell your guests to bring, what the wind does to your decor, and the flowers and chairs that survive a day on sand.
A beach wedding is a different way to say I do, and most of what makes one work is practical rather than aesthetic. Two things decide it: what your guests arrive carrying, and whether your decor can survive the wind.
Tell your guests what to bring
They are coming to a tropical jungle environment, whatever the photographs suggested. Beyond passports and phones, they need sunscreen and mosquito repellent, and it is worth saying so, because most will not think of it.
For the ceremony itself: sandals or flip-flops, sunglasses, a hat if it is in direct sun. Light fabrics, sheer silks and chiffons move well and still look dressy. Heels that will not sink into sand. Something warm for later, because the breeze turns, and an umbrella if the forecast is uncertain.
One small thing that saves the photographs: hair worn up. Sun and sea breeze undo anything else within the hour.
Decor that survives the wind
On this coast the landscape is already the theme, so the decoration only has to work with it. What it does have to do is stay where you put it: flowers, candles, ribbons and balloons all blow away, and so do menus, napkins and place cards unless they are weighted.
Chairs in acrylic or wood are easiest, quick to set up, and wiped dry after rain. Ask for heavy centrepieces and candlesticks rather than light ones. For flowers, chrysanthemums, calla lilies, king protea and orchids all hold up. Fruit and shells add colour without adding anything that can take off.
Food
Serve something that belongs to where you are, in Mexico, that is not a hard ask. Whatever the menu, make sure vegan and gluten-free options are on it rather than arranged on the day.