If you want to make a splash on your big day, a romantic beach wedding may be the perfect way to tie the knot in front of your friends and family. New Jersey is home to countless beautiful beaches, so pitching a white tent or renting a private home with an oceanfront view might provide the optimal setting when you say, “I do.”.
“There really is no better backdrop for a wedding ceremony than a gorgeous ocean,” says Jenny Orsini, owner of Jenny Orsini Events, Inc. in Randolph. “It’s incredibly scenic and Mother Nature has done all of the work for you, so couples who have beach weddings often spend less money on décor.”
But big savings aren’t the only reason to consider a waterfront ceremony this summer. Exchanging vows at the beach is also a way to show your wedding guests a great time by hosting a reception that could easily rival any banquet hall. “So often, wedding guests who attend typical events are shuffled into church, herded into a busy cocktail hour and left to spend hours in a ballroom that usually has no windows,” says Orsini. “But imagine inviting your guests to spend an afternoon on a warm, sandy beach and a fun bonfire as the night begins. Can you honestly think of a more perfect and picturesque setting for a couple to say, ‘I do?’”
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If this sounds like your dream wedding, rest assured, Orsini has you covered. Here are 6 of her favorite ways to plan the ultimate beach wedding:
Unforgettable Favors: “Guests love things that are useful, edible or beneficial. No one wants to leave with a bag of shells or a container of sand! Give your guests something beachy to eat or use. How about renting a food truck with some yummy, take-home food? Or give your guests a pair of flip-flops. Or maybe a beautiful scented candle with an ocean aroma.”
Ocean-Themed Menu: “The beach is a casual environment. This is a great opportunity to deviate from the typical five-course, sit-down meal people are accustomed to. Consult with your caterer to create a menu that is delicious but casual. Consider plenty of passed hors d’oeuvres such as mini fish tacos, sushi rolls, sliders and lobster salad in small take-out containers. Just be sure to stay away from entrees with rich cream sauces. Instead, opt for a lighter dish such as chicken or fish in a wine and lemon sauce.”
Just Desserts: “Dessert can be a beach-inspired wedding cake or edible starfish, or shell-adorned cupcakes. Or you could even do s’mores by the bonfire!”
Seaside Centerpieces: “You are in a beautiful setting. The beach provides unlimited natural décor and ambiance, so keep your décor simple and elegant. Think about small arrangements with orchids, greens, grass and river rocks or seashells. Or add a few romantic florals such as white roses and hydrangea. You can use tons of floating candles too.”
Music Maker: “Keep it casual. Consider hiring a local bar band. Or how about live steel drum players?”
Organic Bouquets: “I think every bride deserves a fabulous bouquet. Orchids and callas are very popular in beach bouquets. Consult with your floral designer for ideas, but don’t be afraid to use grass, shells or even starfish or coral elements.”
Hero (Top) Feature Image: © CLB Photography
Bonfire / CLB Photography
Centerpiece / Images by Berit