When it comes to saying “I do,” no location is more romantic than the beach at Oak Island. As a coastal photographer, I have had the honor of capturing so many beautiful beach weddings, and in my expert opinion, certain elements can elevate your seaside ceremony to a whole new level. Here are some essential must-haves for a flawless beach wedding. If you want stunning photographs, and a smooth unforgettable day, make sure not to forget these!
A Beautiful Arch:
The beach is a gorgeous backdrop as is, but an arch under which you exchange your vows does a few very important things. First, it serves as a visual anchor for your photographs. It frames you- the bride and groom- beautifully and gives your images height. Second, it serves as a space holder on the public beach for your wedding ceremony. It lets the other beachgoers know that there will be a wedding in that area so they can set up their shibumi shades out of the way. And last, it gives you the opportunity to incorporate your wedding vibe into your ceremony by adding decorative elements such as florals and/or fabric.
Getting ready Location
Putting on your perfect dress, happy tears with your Momma, champagne with your besties, your last moments before seeing him for the first time – these all take place in your getting ready location. I can confidently say where you get ready for your wedding is *almost* as important as the ceremony location. As a photographer, a clean, minimal room with lots of windows to let in bright natural light is ideal for my photography style, which helps me tell your love story cohesively. But as a friend, a location like this is perfect for keeping you calm and clear minded on the best day of your life. Big windows streaming in sunlight with a gorgeous view of the beach will ease any nerves that you may have on the day you have dreamed about forever.
Shell or Sand Ceremony:
Add a touch of seaside charm into your wedding with a shell or Sand Ceremony. Instead of a traditional unity candle, (which wouldn’t stay lit anyway) choose to collect sand from your ceremony location in a bottle representing your unity as a couple and ties to the beach. Or gather shells ahead of time and after the “I do’s” have each guest take a shell and throw it in the ocean as they exclaim a well wish for the Bride & Groom. These beachy additions to your ceremony offer a uniqueness that you and your guests will not forget!
A Golf Cart:
Picture this: You get to the beach and realize that you forgot xx. Or you want to sneak out of your reception and go to the beach for dreamy sunset photos, but it’s 90 degrees and you’re in your heavy gown. Let me solve your problem: a golf cart! It is an Oak Island staple and incredibly practical addition to your wedding day. A golf cart can serve as a quicker, less sweaty way to transport you or your entourage quickly adding ease to your day. And I can’t forget to mention that it creates an adorable and playful photo opportunity!
Patience with Weather & Wind:
Embracing the beauty of the coast also means acknowledging the unpredictability that may come with it. Wind, high tides, or rain may not be what you had planned for, but could happen with a beach wedding . A patient mindset towards what you cannot control is the best thing to bring to your wedding day. As for your photos- trust in me that wind-blown veils, tousled hair, and kissing under a clear umbrella as rain trickles all contribute to the magic of telling the story of your day.
