The beach is one of the most beautiful places in the world so it’s no surprise that more and more couples are choosing to say "I do" on the beach. While the beach is romantic, there are many extra elements required to make your beach wedding perfect. Here are ten tips to help you plan the perfect beach wedding.

1. Decide How Formal You Want Your Beach Themed Wedding to Be

A beach wedding can be anything you dream it to be. However, the first decision you have to make is how formal do you want your wedding to be. Just because you are on the beach doesn’t mean you are stuck wearing flip-flops and a short dress, but it doesn’t mean you can’t either! Once you decide how formal you want your wedding to be, deciding on the other elements will be much easier.

2. Be Flexible

Beach weddings are beautiful and unpredictable. Whether it’s the wind or the rain something unexpected could force you to change your plans. So be prepared with back up plans. All good marriages require flexibility, so consider it practice.

3. Pick A Single Style

While many people having a beach wedding simply choose to let the beach be the theme, this can be problematic. If you incorporate too many contrasting elements your wedding could look like a carnival. So consider picking one or two elements to spotlight, such as seashells, starfish, or lighthouses. There are many beautiful wedding beach wedding favors that can compliment any theme.

4. Pick Appropriate Centerpieces and Design Elements

Outdoor beach wedding receptions have to compete with the beauty and nature of the beach. Flowers may wilt in the heat or be blown apart in the wind. Consider using alternative centerpieces such as the "Castles in the Sand Sand Castle Tea Lights" or the "Floating Orchid Candles" both of which are beach themed and hold up to the elements.

5. Plan for the Heat

The heat of the beach can make your guests very uncomfortable. Consider having your wedding in the morning or evening when the sun is less harsh. You can also provide your guests with beautiful fans that can do double duty as a beach themed wedding favor.

6. Remember, Sand Can Be Hard To Walk In

The sand on the beach can make for difficult mobility for both you and your guests. Elderly and disabled guests will have a hard time walking long distances in the sand so consider placing your ceremony at the beginning of the beach. You should also practice walking in your desired footwear before the ceremony to make sure it is beach friendly.

7. Plan for Wedding Crashers

Most beaches are public and a wedding ceremony attracts plenty of attention. Be prepared to be watched by a lot of uninvited guests in bikinis. If this is not something you desire, consider getting married on a private beach or during the slow beach season.

8. Be Prepared For Sound Issues

The wind on the beach can make it difficult for your guests to hear your vows. Sound systems can help but they will also amplify the wind. Smaller ceremonies are better for the acoustics of the beach, but no matter the size, speak loudly.

9. Remember You Are In Nature

Beaches are home to many things including birds. Seagulls may try to join your wedding ceremony, so be prepared and ask your ceremony site how they combat them. Some beaches also smell during certain times of the year. A little research can prevent a stinky wedding!

10. Pick Beach Themed Wedding Favors

One of most people’s favorite things to do while on the beach is shop for souvenirs. Wedding favors are basically souvenirs from your wedding. There are so many beautiful beach wedding favors available that you can easily find the perfect favor for your wedding.