Sandy and JayBring your bug spray. You never know when the bugs will attack! Congratulations, your engaged and planning your perfect day!  You've decided upon a beach wedding, now what?  Following are five things to consider when having your wedding on the beach.

1. WHAT TIME - In the summer, especially here in the U.P., the days are long, so a wedding that is near dusk is not really an option if you are having a reception afterward.  During typical wedding times, i.e. mid afternoon, the sun will create harsh shadows because it will be high in the sky.  If you have a certain beach in mind, it is best to scout the location out during different times to see if there is any shade created from nearby trees.  You can also get an idea of which way you want the guest to face to watch you get married, as you probably wont want them facing directly into the sun.  This is a big one for your photographer as they will want to make you look your best, but sometimes there are things that can't be controlled and your final images might not be as perfect as you want them to be.  It is best to let your photographer know if you are planning a beach wedding and where as soon as possible as they may have some ideas or can at least scout it out for the best photo locations beforehand.
2. WEATHER - You set your date many months in advance, so there is noway of Chris and Amy's beach wedding knowing what the weather will be like on your special day.  Have a backup plan.  This could be a tent or using the reception venue as your wedding backup location.  You should check with the venue to make sure that it is available at the time you would need it and what, if any, the charge would be.  This is very important and shouldn't be overlooked!
3. BUGS - Will it be mosquito season?  Even if it isn't, I highly recommend having bug spray on hand for the bridal party and for your guests.  I typically carry bug spray in my vehicle, but my supply wouldn't be enough for an entire wedding :)
4. PARKING - Is there parking and easy access to the beach?  If not, consider a shuttle.  Checker Transport, LLC is a good option in Marquette.
5. ATTIRE - Will you have a full length wedding dress? What will the bridesmaids wear?  How about the groom and his guys?  Don't forget your guests...  If you are wearing long dresses, understand that they will be full of sand.  How about shoes? High heels typically don't work so well on the beach.  Will the fellas lose their shoes and go barefoot.  Let your guests know how formal the wedding will be, so that they can plan ahead for different shoes for both the wedding Trista and Josh's beach wedding had a rainy ending, so we made the best of it and used large umbrellas. and reception if needed.

A beach wedding can be very memorable one.  Take the steps to ensure that those memories are great for you and your guests by putting in a little extra thought into somethings that could get overlooked.

To discuss your beach wedding or book a date, contact Bill 906.250.2484 | wsphoto@outlook.com