destination wedding

Wedding Ideas, Wedding Planning, Wedding Themes

How to Plan a Beach Themed Wedding Ceremony

The bridal bouquet. Flowers that are heat resilient.

A beach themed wedding is the dream of many couples but not all them dare to make this dream a reality. Let’s uncover how to plan a beach themed wedding ceremony with these 13 crucial tips that will make it a resounding success!

Sunsets, warm sand, boho wedding dresses, salty air, nature and the incredible backdrop of the ocean are only some of the appeal of a beach themed wedding ceremony. Beach weddings will fit every budget: they can go from economical to the most lavish and luxurious of events.

Get inspired by these ideas and start planning a beach themed wedding ceremony of your very own.

13 Tips for Planning a Beach Themed Wedding Ceremony

1. Try to stay away from the summer months.

Or choose a wedding destination on the opposite hemisphere. That way it’s summer for you, but winter on the other side of the planet. Sometimes, one month after high season still has terrific weather but it’s not as crowded and/or expensive.

Always keep in mind to stay away from windy weather and know your tides. Unless you don’t mind getting literally blown away or under the sea. 😉

There is no need for chairs at the beach if the ceremony is short. And, what a view!

2. Public or private beach?

The next decision for how to plan a beach themed wedding ceremony is to choose the type of beach: public or private.

Private beach weddings locations are much harder to find. Most people will not rent their homes for such a large shindig but you can try renting an oceanfront estate. Even if you host your beach wedding at a resort with a private beach, you may have to share the place with other resort guests.

Make sure you ask the resort if privatizing the beach for your wedding is possible before you book.

At a private beach in the Bahamas, a modern beach wedding captured by Jason Mize Photography. Harbour Island, The Bahamas. jasonmizephotography

3. It’s the law.

Unless it’s your very own private beach at your summer getaway home, you’ll have to become acquainted with the local ordinances (just like on public park weddings) or hire a wedding planner that specializes in destination weddings or is local to that area. There is a key ordinance on most beaches that prohibits alcohol and this is where having a reception at a location overlooking the beach and a beach wedding ceremony is a great idea.

Download Our Complete 6-Month Timeline To Plan Your Wedding

4. Try to pick a day of the week and a time of the day…

when there will be few people present at the beach. You don’t want to have photos of passers by in a thong. 😉

During the week, early in the morning or at sunset are your best bets. And sunsets are so romantic!

Also, keep in mind that the night is not a good time for a beach wedding as the ocean goes black (unless you have a full moon and a clear night) and not only is a but scary but it does not allow for good photography.

Lauren Fair Photography captured this incredible scenario for a very intimate beach themed wedding.

5. Beach themed wedding ceremony decorations.

You don’t need to decorate the beach for a ceremony but make sure you have a few benches for the people who may need it, like older folks and pregnant guests.

If your ceremony is short, nobody will mind standing for 30 minutes or so. So, a few benches, a canopy and the breathtaking scenery of the beach and the ocean should be enough.

Of course, if you want to go all the way and add the white chairs and an aisle runner covered with rose-petals, you will need more coordination and expenses (remember you will have to setup most of this the same day) but the photography will be spectacular. The work will be proportional to the number of guests.

Flowers and lanterns with risers in the sand.

6. How to Plan a Beach Themed Wedding Ceremony: Can you hear me now?

Make sure you have a good sound system. The beach has a lot of nature noises: seagulls, waves, wind, and people and it will be hard to listen to the officiant’s words. A windscreen over the microphone is also a good idea.

Surrounded by friends and family at the time of the I dos. An original circular ceremony sitting.

7. Avoid the lobster look!

Wear sunscreen and handout some for your guests (this could be a great idea for a wedding favor)

Avoid tan lines before the big day and this applies to the bride, bridesmaids. mom and everybody else that will attend the wedding. They really don’t look too good on the photos and neither does a sunburnt bride.

Chiffon bridesmaid dresses for beach weddings.

8. Picking the flowers for your bride’s bouquet.

Make sure they endure the heat like freesias, calla lilies, orchids, and succulents. Try to keep all decorations to a minimum.

A beach wedding theme does not need a lot at the time of the ceremony. Maybe a few seashells and starfish in greens, corals and other colors that contrast with the sand will do.

9. Bridal attire has to be beach-appropriate.

Ditch the veil, it will make you and photography uncomfortable and very hard as it will flap in the wind. Choose fresh flowers or a hair accessory instead.

Lace trim is gorgeous but it can easily trap sand and look dirty. Go for chiffon or charmeuse so your gown flows in the ocean breeze.

This is a great opportunity for a shorter dress so it doesn’t touch the sand. Keep in mind that the wedding dress has to be comfortable and allow for movement and if you must wear high heeled shoes, add a wooden plank to walk gracefully to the ceremony area. Otherwise, flats, espadrilles and even kitten heels are a better option.

An aisle runner made of fabric will help your step and keep your feet cooler (sand gets really hot)

If your dress will not be touching much of the sand, this vintage backless bridal gown is a dream come true for a beach themed wedding.

10. Best choice for a beach wedding hairstyle

an updo or a messy updo. Even a half up, half down bridal hairstyle will help you look beachy without looking like you were just hit by a typhoon.

A little hunger games inspiration for your beach wedding bridal hairstyle.

11. For the groom and the groomsmen

linen suits or lightweight cotton pants. Perfect for a beach themed wedding ceremony and they can use them again and again!

12. How to Plan a Beach Themed Wedding Ceremony: Always have a plan B.

A beach themed wedding ceremony is beautiful but you have several weather factors to protect yourself against such as the rain and, more importantly, the wind. Chewing on sand is not a good way to celebrate.

Wedding reception at a Mexico beach captured by Stephen Karlisch Photography. The perfect example of a lavish beach themed wedding.

13. Viva el Trash the Dress!

After the wedding, don’t miss the opportunity of having a great trash the dress photo session!

I love “Trash the Dress” photo sessions on beach themed weddings. Don’t worry, these are rarely the actual dresses. Most brides but a trashable dress from a thrift store for this type of photo shoot.

Beach Themed Wedding Ceremony Inspirational Ideas

We hope the advise on how to plan a beach themed wedding ceremony is useful to plan yours. We leave you with a bunch of incredibly inspirational ideas to copy, mimic or plain steal for yours!!

A beautifully surprising 4-tiered beach wedding cake.

A guestbook full of wishes you will not want to cast into the sea, or will you? Event planner Leslie Cecchini

In between the sand and the dunes, this white on white beach themed wedding takes our breath away.

Tropical drink recipes for beach weddings: Mint turquoise signature wedding drink: blue thai mojito, blue curaçao, limon or white rum, coco-mint syrup, fresh lime juice and soda water.

Adorably cute seating sign for a same sex beach themed wedding ceremony. Photography: hative

How to plan a beach themed wedding ceremony.

Chiffon and silk dress, simple and dreamy for your beach themed wedding ceremony.

Something blue. A delicate foot accessory to go barefoot at your beach wedding via Etsy.

Something blue. A delicate foot accessory to go barefoot at your beach wedding via BarefootShop.

Get ready, chica! A 2017 beach themed wedding ceremony color palette by the Pattern Curator.

The perfect invitation for a rustic beach themed wedding ceremony.

Peach Echo, a Pantone top 10 color of the year to add a pop of color to your beach themed wedding ceremony.

Who said orchids? Well, here you go: a simple but elegant orchid table runner on top of palm fronds for your beach themed wedding ceremony.

Who said orchids? Well, here you go: a simple but elegant orchid table runner on top of palm fronds for your beach wedding.

Romantic beach themed wedding cake design with sun, love and seashells in gorgeous white.

What better idea for beach wedding invitations than watercolors in turquoise tones?

Photo credits: explore.idojour.com, MODwedding, instagram, theknot, weddingideasbyyou, annsbridalbargains, weddingwire, weddingpartyapp, greenweddingshoes, negriljamaicaweddings.com, cakesdecor, thenest, elegantweddinginvites, storeenvy

04/17/21/4 Comments/by Bodas y Weddings - Patricia

Wedding Ideas, Wedding Planning, Wedding Themes

The Fairytale Wedding: Amazing Ideas To Plan Your Disney Themed Wedding

A whimsical fairytale wedding confection | Courtesy of DisneyWeddings.com

You are a romantic bride that is looking to plan a Disney themed wedding without having to visit the Magic Kingdom. Well, you are in the right place! Today, we’ll show you how to plan a fairytale wedding Disney Style!

A Disney reception is the equivalent of a truly fun-filled fairytale wedding as Disney brings us a plethora of movies and characters to inspire ourselves with. And, guess what? It’s your wedding, so you can mix and match all the characters you want to create your very own fairytale wedding Disney style!!!!

How to Plan a Disney Themed Wedding

What is spectacular about a Disney-themed wedding is that the options are unlimited and their preparation becomes even more exciting the more you image the dreamlike event. But before the start of the magical experience, couples should decide on the following: invitation, decoration, wedding gowns, food and drinks,…and the list just goes on and on.

To plan a Disney themed wedding you have 3 options:

Let Disney organize your wedding at the magic kingdom itself!
Hire a wedding planner
Do it yourself.

If you have the means and are a true blue Disney fan, indulge on a Disney themed wedding at the Magic Kingdom! I’m sure it will be a truly memorable event!!

If you want your wedding at a different location and are able to hire a wedding planner. Go ahead! You can still get inspired by these fairytale wedding ideas! It’s much easier for a wedding planner that you actually show them what you want rather than you describing it as a “I want it to be magical” 😉

Get married in the land of Oz at Disney. Photography: disneyeventgroup.photography.com

For those who decide to go for the fashionable DIY Disney themed wedding, here are some ideas that will certainly inspire you to create the fairytale wedding of your dreams!

Fairytale Wedding Invitations: Cinderella, Snow White, or Rapunzel?

Of course, there is nothing that says you cannot choose Fantasia instead of a Disney Princess (or Prince) and have a very Mickey Mouse wedding. What is spectacular about a Disney-themed wedding ceremony is that the options are unlimited and the preparation becomes more exciting upon imagining the dreamlike event.

Vintage pastel pink, blush, gold, laser cut wedding Invitations for your fairytale wedding.

Disney-themed Wedding Ceremony at its Best: Wedding decor

The decoration must blend well with the Disney theme. For example, if it is Cinderella inspired, the reception may look like the grand ball where Cinderella danced with Prince Charming. The color scheme is also important because this can add more realism to the wedding theme. If you chose a Snow White inspired wedding, decorations may be based on the colors of Snow White’s dress such as red, yellow, and blue.

Pinks, blushes, nudes, and lots of sparkle and sequins constitute classic fairytale wedding colors. Add some hydrangeas and roses, nude sequined linens and gold chargers to your table decor for effect.

Wedding centerpieces inspired in Disney’s Beauty and the Beast.

Disney themed wedding: Alice in Wonderland. 1- Save the Date ideas for a fairytale wedding. 2- A wedding favor your guests will not wan to leave behind 3- Whimsical wedding ideas for Disney-obsessed couples 4- Mad Hatter Tea Party Bridal Shower 5- An Alice in Wonderland White Rabbit Save-the-Date 6- How about this seating escort card beverage idea? Drink Me but I promise you won’t shrink. 🙂

A fairytale wedding pairs up extremely well with vintage decor, and when it is vintage glam it is to die for! Get inspired by antiques, chandeliers and crystals. Add a touch of glamour to your dessert table by placing an old sofa near it for your guests to enjoy their sweets.

Wedding Gowns Fit for a Queen

Fairytale wedding dresses are really fun to choose. It all depends on what you choose: will you go for the Princess’ style of the color? Maybe both? Or will you go for a romantic gown fit for a queen? Ariel and Rapunzel wore mermaid and trumpet style wedding dresses. If you are traditional, you can always choose a white gown with a white fitted bodice and a full pick-up skirt just like the ones Belle, Aurora, or Sleeping Beauty wear. What is important is that you, as the main character, should be the fairest of them all.

Gorgeous ball gown wedding dress for an insanely fun fairytale inspired wedding.

More Wedding Dress Inspiration

Fairytale Wedding Food Ideas

To add a touch of Disney magic to your event, opt for a Chinese cuisine dinner served with chopsticks a la Mulan, or the classic cupcakes decorated with fairies, butterflies or princesses on top. You can even create your very own personalized Disney-inspired cocktails served in elegant wine glasses.

A dessert table for your fairytale wedding.

A Few Love Quotes for your Disney Wedding

Use them your invitations, engraved on your wedding favors or on the wedding signs.

“I know you, I walked with you once upon a dream.” – Sleeping Beauty

“To spend a life of endless bliss, just find who you love through true love’s kiss.” – Enchanted

“We’re simply meant to be.” – Nightmare Before Christmas

“Each happy ending’s a brand new beginning.” – Enchanted

“And they lived Happily Ever After.” – Anonymous

Check out these 23 Impossibly Romantic Ideas for a Blush Wedding

Fall in love with Disney’s Frozen because some people are worth melting for.

Disney themed weddings are incredibly romantic and versatile. Get inspired and enjoy organizing yours because, after all, your wedding is just the beginning of your fairytale.

Don’t miss out on these French wedding ideas. Trending and Fabulously Chic! Ooooh La La!!

Because drink me was never as soothing as with this original favor. 12 Jasmine filled wedding favors for an Alice in Wonderland inspired wedding. ($51.00)

How does a masquerade ball sound? Make sure to ask your guests to dress accordingly and your wedding photography will be incredible!

Mirror, mirror, on the wall for the menu of a Disney themed wedding. It will surely put a smile on your guests faces.

And the magic continues on the wedding favors created by a fairy godmother. Because, who doesn’t want a bit of pixie dust?

Martin Hambleton Wedding Photographer captured this magnificent fairytale wedding cake for a happily ever after.

Disney themed wedding cake and cake toppers. Adorable!

Add these chocolate filled toadstools to your Snow White inspired dessert table.

Fairytale wedding tablescape. Dinner menu set on top of charger plates for romantic glitz.

With a little bit of imagination you can turn the entrance to your wedding reception into a fairytale.

Aladdin themed wedding details. 1- Add some magic lamps and make your guests’ wishes come true 2- For the budget conscious brides, Aladdin inspired favors 3- Disney themed wedding cupcakes

Can you say enchanted boxes? Love the corner detail with jewel tones and gold thread.

Don't forget the Photo Booth! Beauty and the Beast props for your Disney themed wedding.

Don’t forget the Photo Booth! Beauty and the Beast props ($18.00).

Disney’s World of Color at the California Adventure Park.

Straight out of a fairytale wedding. Arrive to the wedding in a pumpkin carriage.

Disney inspired guestbook.

Fit for a Disney Princess wedding.

Snow white themed wedding with lots of ruby red apples. Claire Marika Photography.

Snow White inspired candied apples. So maybe you aren’t getting married in a castle. You can still add a touch of Disney Magic to your special day.

Berta Bridal wedding dress to make your fairytale wedding come true.

Invitation seal.

Seating cards on shells for your Little Mermaid Disney themed wedding.

“Bibiddy Bobbidy Boo” Beverage Bar for a Disney Themed Wedding by the Partiologist.

Gold jewel tones for this fairytale wedding cake photographed by Two Foxes Photography.

Magical invitation for a whimsical fairytale wedding.

More Photo Booth props for your Disney themed wedding.

Shari Photography. The Greatest Disney Themed Wedding Ever.

If you are still undecided about your wedding style, check out this article on What To Take Into Account When Choosing Your Wedding Style! 🙂

Discover More Stunning Wedding Ideas

Photo credits: buzzfeed, MODwedding, magicaldayweddings, greenweddingshoes, amyandjordanblog, colincowieweddings, noivaesposamae.com.br, xaazablog, bespoke-bride, one-stop-party-ideas, inspiredbydis, theknot, deerpearlflowers, Brit + Co, huffingtonpost, blog.hwtm, whiterabbitphotoboutique, projectdenneler, kasper-creations, offbeatbride, bellethemagazine

01/10/21/4 Comments/by Bodas y Weddings - Patricia

Wedding Ideas, Wedding Themes

43 Vineyard Wedding Ideas to Plan Your Winery Reception. Check Them Out!

Steal these vineyard wedding ideas and add even more charm and romance to your winery reception!

Protea and greenery vineyard wedding decor ideas.

If you are traveling to Wine Country or to a local winery for your wedding, check out these vineyard wedding ideas. Get inspired by this romantic wedding theme to wine and dine with your framily in style. To be surrounded by natural beauty and lush vines as you get hitched is nothing short of incredible.

Consider a vineyard wedding come summer or fall. That’s when the vines are filled with grapes. Green in the summer and burnt orange and reds in the fall. Which one is your favorite?

And as you and your partner plan to raise your glasses to a prosperous union, read on to get creative vineyard wedding ideas.

Vineyard Wedding Color Ideas

Unless your heart is set on it, forget the traditional reddish marsala hue. Fill your color palette with blue (deep or green blue), yellow and navy to bring in that fresh romantic and intimate feel.

Unexpected wedding color combos like chartreuse, powder blue and cornflower blue can be intertwined will bring out that fabulous vineyard wedding style. Add some old-world charm by introducing a mixture of burgundy, purple, and orange. Be creative but don’t overdo it. As anything in life, a little goes a long way.

Corks are always handy at wineries.

Personalized labels with the bride and grooms name. Add them to your favors! (Etsy)

Don’t Miss Out on These Wedding Dessert Table Ideas that will Blow your Mind: How to Create Yours!

Winery Wedding Decoration Ideas

The lush green or autumnal beauty of a vineyard is natural decor itself and a magnificent background for photo sessions. Get inspired by these simple vineyard wedding decoration ideas and feel free to steal some of them!

Build an aisle with wine barrels decorated with blue hydrangeas on top. Even create a wine barrel altar for that vineyard “outdoorsy” ceremony setting.

Vintage vineyard wedding ideas.

A wine and cheese barrel makes for an original vineyard wedding idea.

Burgundy, purple, and orange vineyard wedding decor. Photography: Jen And Chris Creed.

When it comes down to centerpieces, we know you’ll fall in love with these vineyard wedding ideas. DIY candleholders out of wine bottles and add a long tapered candle. Amazing, amiright? Of course, a candlelit vineyard wedding with gold details is a recipe for perfection. Alternatively, go for a centerpiece bursting with figs, flowers, berries, and purple grapes for chic beauty. Beware, your guests might want to take a bite out of them!

Consider making a grapevine reception canopy—a natural tent for guests to swirl and sip beneath.

What is a winery wedding without a wine tasting? Show off your inner-oenologist and give your guests a special wine tasting treat. With every course during dinner, impress them even more by pairing each meal with a different wine.

Absolutely stunning fall vineyard wedding.

Napa winery wedding with old world charm. Photography: Sally Pinera.

Vineyard wedding color ideas: lavender and chartreuse.

30+ Wedding Table Ideas: What to Put on Wedding Reception Tables (Wow your Guests!)

Vineyard Wedding Ideas: How to Dress up for a Winery Wedding

Vineyard weddings lend themselves to a world of possibilities. Boho chic, soft colored palettes and neutrals all the way to the formal and stunning black and white look. Remind your guests to bring a wrap or blazer as it does get chilly in the evenings.

Ladies, avoid high heels. You don’t want to get stuck on the grass as you dance or walk around. If you insist on having some height, pick a pair of shows with block heels or some cute wedges.

For a glamorous and sophisticated vibe, include berry-hued florals to your bridal bouquet.

A dusty blue wedding dress will contrast against the green of the vineyard. Photo: Blush Wedding Photography.

Adorable pink blush crown for the bride’s hairdo.

Gorgeous bridal gown against the summer vineyard background.

Vineyard Wedding Ideas Photo Gallery that will Sweep you off your Feet

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Vineyard Wedding Locations

Vineyard weddings are often destination ones. Wine Country, Napa Valley and Sonoma County are some of the most famous vineyard wedding locations in the USA. But Virginia and North Carolina with the Blue Ridge Mountains in the background are not any less breathtaking. We are certain that there is a winery or distillery nearby you haven’t discovered yet.

Show off your inner-oenologist and give your guests a special wine tasting treat.

Hamilton Oaks Winery at San Juan Capistrano. Photo: Sposto Photography.

If you want to host a vineyard wedding abroad, France, Spain, and Italy are top European wine producers and their vineyards will most definitely impress you. While Argentina and Chile pull their weight on this side of the continent. These countries boast of massive, rustic, and romantic vineyard acreages that hold year-round wedding programs.

Go ahead! Steal these vineyard wedding ideas and fulfill your winery wedding dream! And now check out these 19 Irresistible and Original Wedding ideas (And How To Make Them Happen)

Greenery and roses aisle decor.

Wine cellar wedding reception.

Vineyard wedding ring shot. Photography: Kristen Gardner Photo.

Discover More Stunning Wedding Ideas

Photo Credits: Deer Pearl Flowers, OnceWed, Brit Co, Afloral, Wedding Chicks, HappyWedd, MODwedding, Magnolia Rouge

09/02/17/2 Comments/by Bodas y Weddings

Wedding Ideas, Wedding Trends

Getting Married For The Second Time? Check Out These Fab Tips!

Feel free to get creative when getting married for the second time. Read these second marriage etiquette tips and get inspired by some fantastic ideas!

An unforgettable scenery for your winter wedding.

Gone are the days when the second marriage is seen as a social stigma. Today, whether you want an elaborate shindig or an intimate second wedding, the choice is completely yours.

Second Marriage Wedding Etiquette: To Follow or Not To Follow?

Let’s take a look at a few rules you may want to follow when celebrating your second (or third, or fourth) nuptials. Because, truth be told, you can write your very own second marriage wedding etiquette book and never be wrong. Well, maybe with a few exceptions.

Here are two rules you will want to truly consider:

If either of you have children, let them know they are of major importance in the new union. No matter their age, give them a role they’d be happy to play in the course of events. Always be sensitive to the child’s feelings and try to cater to them as much as possible. And never, ever, leave them out of the equation.
Should you invite your ex and his family? Tread carefully on this one. You may be on the best of terms with your ex, their friends and family, but your second marriage is a fresh start. Trust me, you don’t need the awkwardness.

Trendy alternative bridal looks for second nuptials. How much more fun can you have?

Escort cards and favors all-in-one for a travel-inspired second wedding. Get it at Beau-Coup!

And now, a few second marriage wedding etiquette tips to follow (or not!)

1Should I still announce the wedding?

If you don’t know the difference between wedding announcements and wedding invitations, the announcements are sent out after the wedding to let people know you got married. Not too many couples follow this tradition but if you do, you can announce your second wedding like you did the first.

2Wording your invitations: What name should I use?

Second marriages come with a bit of unease when wording the invitation. Friends and colleagues may know you by your ex-spouse’s first name. A golden rule is to use the name you’re comfortable with. And if you are worried people might get confused, indicate for clarity on the invite. Or just give them a call.

Prioritize your children like Emily Maynard did at her surprise wedding.

Brunch weddings have the best of cakes.

Rock a black and white wedding dress for your second marriage wedding.

3Bridal etiquette: Say yes to the white wedding gown

Wear what you desire when getting married for the second time. Pick that gorgeous blush gown, or go for a traditional white bridal look. Short, long, princess-cut or ball gown and even a pair of strikingly white bridal pants. Take something that flatters your figure—whatever color. Note that dinner rehearsals are really not necessary. You can even do away with the garter and bouquet tossing!

All is permitted at any wedding and even more so the second time around! Check out these fantastic ideas for modern brides.

4Giving away the bride at a second marriage ceremony

Let your imagination run wild. Nowadays, it can be anyone or no one. Your (child) children, mother, grandparents, or even your best friend may do just fine. Furthermore, you can even have your two most favorite people walk you down the aisle.

Getting married for the second time: How does an intimate destination wedding in Riviera Nayarit, Mexico, sound?

Stunning wedding pantsuit by Krikor Jabotian. An original idea when getting married for the second time. You can definitely use this again for any occasion.

5Wedding registry etiquette

You might not want gifts (not many second marriages do), but you still need to register to give guidance to guests who want to give. You may opt for an online wedding registry or a honeymoon fund! In both cases, you get the cash! Not a bad idea, right?

Amazing peonies bridal bouquet for this Santa Barbara wedding at Villa Sevillano. Photographer: Jose Villa.

Don’t ask people to donate… ask them to join in or help out. Appeal to their emotions and not their wallets.

Adventurous couples may want to stamp mountains at their wedding! Personalize yours at this Etsy store.

Alternative Wedding Ideas For A Second Marriage

If there is one thing we know, is that couples feel really free to do what their like and enjoy when getting married for the second time. That’s why we rounded up some fantastic alternative wedding ideas for a second marriage celebration. Let your imagination take hold and remember to make it memorable!

Shake things up! Brunch weddings are all the rage and perfect for after a small and intimate civil ceremony. Or ask your favorite coffee place if you can host a pop up wedding (no more than 8 people, please) at their space with no music and no need for decorations. Definitely a less casual setup that is fun for everybody. Cut the cake first. Or even welcome the guests at the entrance.

Surprise your guests. Make it yours. It’s your second marriage—a second chance to show off your unique style. However, make your dreams budget-friendly and realistic. For example, rent a beach house for a weekend and celebrate with your closest friends. A truly unforgettable experience.

Colorado is a spectacular place to get married for the second time. This lodge at Beaver Creek makes you wish it was winter now.

Delicious omelette station for a wedding brunch reception. Photographer: Brian Samuels Photography.

Forget the same old catering this second time around and go for a more contemporary style.

Destination Weddings: Celebration and Honeymoon All in One

Consider getting wed at an intimate or unique destination location. The beach, a snowy mountain resort, or your mutual favorite place in the world. By hosting a destination wedding, you can add a new tone and a memorable setting to your second nuptials.

Plan an entirely different second wedding from the first, and add a fresh start to your union. Put in that unconventional flavor and have fun. Adventure-seeking couples may get married by a sherpa at the foot of the Himalayas. Wouldn’t that be cool?

Surprise your guests with a beach wedding. Perfect for South Florida couples.

Indulge in an olive bar. If it’s in Tuscany even better.

Ever dreamt of getting married in Paris? Now’s your chance! Second marriage wedding ideas.

Related: Trendy Plus Sized Wedding Guest Dresses, Curvy is the New Black

Why Getting Married for the Second Time is Much Better Than The First

Getting married for the second time is one of the boldest steps you can take in your life. But the truth is, a lot wiser, caring, trusting you is available for the taking. Of course, things do get bet better the second time around.

Life at 40 looks much different than life at 20. You can use that first-hand experience to build a stronger and more realistic relationship. You know what you want, you are older and more experienced and you know marriage is not all roses. You can own your wrongs and you are better prepared to build a loving, new and wonderful life together.

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Remember that marriage is a choice and, if you decide to give it another go, be all in. But of course, have fun in the process!!! Keep in touch! Follow us on Pinterest, Facebook or Instagram for more ideas on how to celebrate a second marriage or a first! 🙂

Take your wedding to Napa Valley, like this Calistoga wedding, and dine al fresco with your guests. It will be an unforgettable soirée. Photographer: Matt Edge Wedding Photography.

Elope in front of the Eiffel Tower in the city of lights. Four Seasons in Paris, named one of the best rooftop wedding venues in the world.

Discover More Stunning Wedding Ideas

Photo Credits: Elite Daily, Apartment Therapy, Popsugar, Berry Acres, Brides, HappyWedd, Woman Getting Married, Cedarwood Weddings, cuteweddingideas, Oh Best Day Ever, weddingpartyapp, 100layercake, Colorado Weddings Magazine, Oh So Chic Designs, idotaketwo, Brit Morin, Rock n Roll Bride, Bridal Musings.

08/23/17/1 Comment/by Bodas y Weddings - Patricia

Amazing Venues, Planning Tips, Wedding Planning

How to Choose a Wedding Venue: Wedding Planning Tips You Must Read

About to choose a wedding venue? Stop and read these wedding planning tips to help you land the venue that fits your budget, style and all of your guests!

Florida wedding venue. Ancient Spanish Monastery in North Miami Beach.

The wedding venue may often set the tone for the rest of your wedding. No pressure, right? Allow us to help you by breaking down the process of choosing a wedding venue. Find out what to consider before touring the locations. What questions to ask get the information you need to land the reception space of your dreams. 🙂

How to Choose a Wedding Venue: It’s Definition Time!

If you are about to choose a wedding venue you will be overwhelmed by the number of banquet halls, spaces, outdoor locations and more that will pop up on Google. Let’s bring it down a notch. Stop the searching, grab a calendar, pen and paper and follow the yellow-brick road. 😉

Before starting to look for the ideal venue you must define four things: the date, your wedding style, the number of guests, and your budget.

First of all, pick a date. You will need to check if the place you picked is available on that date before even considering touring the venue. So, the date will definitely will be one of your filters. If budget is a concern, keep in mind that prices are more affordable from Sunday to Thursday and higher on Friday and Saturday as well as during peak wedding season. If you’re not getting married on-site, check in dates with your church or City Hall first before booking the reception venue. Date: Check!

Intimate weddings are very much on trend. Organic and intimate destination wedding in Italy.

Next, the wedding style. The wedding venue you pick will help you define and frame your wedding theme. If you are looking for a summery vibe to your reception, consider a country, garden, or beach wedding.

Modern couples can look into lofts, warehouses, art galleries. Check out these modern industrial raw spaces if you live in New York! Remember that when you engage a raw space, the rentals do not come included in the package. Consider all the extras in the price for a more fair comparison between wedding venues.

Non-traditional couples may look for unique and eclectic event spaces, such as zoos, public libraries, museums, and even old train stations. These spaces in Los Angeles will give you an idea to start with. (but do not make a decision yet!)

Intimate weddings are very much on trend. You can go as small as your own backyard (so cool!) or as fancy as renting a vacation home and make it a weekend celebration. Who knows? It may end up being more affordable that a traditional reception venue. Talk about an unforgettable experience! At the end of this article, we’ve added a wedding venue size calculator, just in case you want to host the shindig at home. 😉

Plan an unforgettable wedding! Find out how to choose a wedding venue step by step. Wedding photographer: Lauren Conrad Photography.

Now, let’s estimate the guest count. It is highly recommended that you build a preliminary count which you can adjust later. Reception venues will ask you for this number in order to give you a quote. You will also use the guest count to perform your preliminary research. Be mindful of the fact that there are always last minute additions and that just because a venue tells you it can fit 150 people, it does not mean you have to cram them all up.

Finally, the budget! How much can you afford to spend on the wedding venue? We highly recommend sticking to this budget or you will have to do away with those coveted ice sculptures, your dream wedding gown, or the open bar you so badly wanted for your guests. 🙁

Make sure there will be space for your chain link Chuppah! Huron Substation, Los Angeles, CA. Wedding photographer: Jen Huang Photography.

Imagine your reception at a place like the Patio del barrio de Santa Cruz, Sevilla.

How to Choose a Wedding Venue: Perform a Preliminary Online Search

Yes! Let’s bring Google back! The first step is collecting all of the information available to you about the potential wedding venues. Try not to overwhelm yourself with too many event spaces. Start with a few reception places and go from there. Stay organized by building a spreadsheet, it will help you figure out who you’d like to visit in person. Remember, you still have a few more steps to go.

Try to find the following information from each venue’s website: Name of the venue, address, website, phone number & other contact information, capacity, pricing Information, and why you liked it.

It is likely that not all of this information will be available on the website; and you may need to call or email the venue to get everything you need. At least by collecting all of this information you can compare them side by side.

Marquee monogram for the dessert table at a backyard wedding venue.

Burlap and tulle window covers with rosettes. Done with coral and ivory flowers. An easy and cheap idea to help cover windows if the reception space is too bright.

How to Choose a Wedding Venue: Prepare for Touring the Wedding Venues

Now, let’s boil down your list to a manageable size. Email or call the prospective spaces and find out if they are available on your date. If so, coordinate an in-person visit, preferably when it’s set up for a wedding. It will give you a better idea of the space available.

Ask them if you’ll have exclusive use of the venue on that day. Every banquet hall or wedding venue differs in the amount of privacy provided. Some offer separate bathrooms and dressing rooms, some share the parking space area. If you are getting married in a public space, you’d better make your piece with strangers stopping by and giving you their good wishes.

Ask as many questions as possible beforehand so you can concentrate on visualizing your wedding and checking those details you have to verify in person.

The Gavioli Chapel in Eureka Springs is a unique ceremony choice for couples looking for an impressive setting for their wedding. Chapel in the Woods, Arkansas. Wedding Venue.

With this small checklist you are ready to go and choose a wedding venue that is perfect for you! Huron SubStation, Los Angeles, CA.

Questions to Ask a Wedding Venue When Visiting (or Before!)

So you have an appointment with a venue on-site coordinator. You want to make sure this time is well-spent, so what should you ask? Start by making sure you can fill in all the blanks of the spreadsheet you created. Here are a few more questions that will help you choose a wedding venue that fits your requirements.

Layout and Accommodations Questions

Is there a bridal-changing area?
How much parking is available? Is valet parking an option? If the parking is limited, is there nearby parking available? Ensure it is easy for the guests to arrive comfortably to your wedding. They will thank you for it.
Is the venue handicap accessible? Make sure everyone feels welcomed.
How many bathrooms are available and what is their capacity?
Make sure that there is space for all the activities and details that you have planned for your wedding: the guestbook signing, the dinner, the cocktails, the dessert table and the cake, the dance floor, the band, the photo booth and a few lounging areas!
If your guests will travel to your wedding you need to offer them lodging. Find out if the wedding venue has at least a couple of hotels nearby with available rooms. Your guests will really appreciate if you offer them a third and cheaper option.

Grace Loves Lace are renowned for creating effortlessly unique, luxurious designs for the modern bride. Designed & handmade in Australia.

Wedding Planning Questions

What time can vendors arrive to start setting up and then dismantling the wedding decor?
What are the wedding decor restrictions? Are there any guidelines, restrictions or policies on using real candles? Is it a raw space? If not, what table and chair styles do they provide? Do you need a special permit for your wedding arch?
What refrigeration is available? (This is important if you are using live flowers or cake with frosting that could melt)
Is the venue licensed for providing or servicing alcohol? Is there hirable bar staff? What is the rate for the staff, service, and drink?
Are there any noise ordinances you need to respect? If the venue does not allow for music after 10pm and you plan to continue the party until the wee hours of the morning, that’s not a good fit. Unless you plan on an after-party somewhere else.
Is there a contingency plan provided by the fabulous vineyard in case it rains? An indoor space or a tent?
If you would like to host a romantic wedding, a daytime wedding or a cocktail at sunset, check that the place can provide you with the lighting you want and need.
How far is it from the church? Or is there a space to celebrate the religious ceremony?

Wedding planning advice. Allow for space for the waiters to serve your guests. Love this tablescape shot! The pops of color are terrific. Wedding photographer: Jen Huang Photography

Allow for space for the waiters to serve your guests. Love this tablescape shot! The pops of color are terrific. Wedding photographer: Jen Huang Photography.

How to choose a wedding venue step by step. Chapel in the Woods, The Woodlands, TX wedding venue. Wedding photographer: Sara Answorth photography.

Pricing Questions

Are there discounts available for booking off-season or on Sunday through Friday?
What are the terms of the deposit? Is it refundable and when is it due?
What is the cancellation policy?
Are rentals (tables, chairs, linens, table clothes, or glassware) included in the price? If so, which ones?
Make sure when you are looking for potential venues that you clearly understand what’s included and what isn’t. Examples of this are catering and wedding menus, beverages, and centerpieces.
Are there any vendor restrictions? If the venue offers catering in-house, find out if you can do a tasting before the wedding.
Does the venue have liability insurance?

Don’t book the first venue you see, even if you fall in love with it. Choose at least three or four wedding venues that fit your budget and wedding style and ask for quotes. Be prepared to take notes and lots of photos!

Ask for the wedding venue quotes. Make sure you get as much information as possible to choose a wedding venue that you will be happy with. It’s your day, after all!

Succulents and white roses adorn this chic boho wedding in California. Their quaint, yet ultra stylish venue at Seven4One offered the perfect one-of-a-kind circular ceremony space for their intimate nuptials.

Remember to add the wedding venue address to your invitations. Elegant and luxurious white laser cut pocket wedding invitations. (BYWWS026)

Wedding Venue Size Calculator

All venues will help you find out how many guests can fit in a banquet hall or reception venue for different seating plans. But, if you are holding your wedding affair at home, in a garden or at another outdoor venue, it is useful to know how to calculate how many guests can be accommodated in a given space. You do not want your guests feeling cramped at your wedding.

Measure the length and the width of the area in feet. Multiply the two numbers together to get the area in square feet. If the space is uneven, you need to break it up into squares, rectangles or triangles, calculate the area for each and then add them up.

Now divide this number by 2 as you may safely estimate that 50% of the area will be used for aisles, staging, waiters, dance floor, catering stations, and other. The remaining area will accommodate your guests.

Non-traditional couples may look for unique and eclectic event spaces such as this one. Wedding photography: Colin Cowie Weddings.

Wedding ceremony decor for raw spaces. 40 tissue paper poms.

Use the following guidelines to calculate capacity:

* For every round banquet table that seats 10 people, calculate 30 square feet.
* Calculate 3 square feet per person for a stand-up reception.

However, each room or space is different. You need to take into account the shape, locations of doors, fire exits, columns; buffet dinner or seated dinner set up, and so on. As a rule of thumb, 1,000 square feet is adequate for 80 wedding guests at a sit-down wedding. For each ten additional guests, add an additional 200 square feet of space.

With this small checklist you are ready to go and choose a wedding venue that is perfect for you. Just one last piece of advice, once you have set your reception hall budget don’t go see places that far exceed it. And now, let’s read about wedding reception seating!