Beach Weddings:
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Tried and true tips for planning a beachside ceremony and reception
Two words: program fans. Keep your guests cool and informed by turning your ceremony program into a fan. We love a multi-purpose find.
36 NORTHWESTFLORIDAWEDDINGS.NET
pastel sun sets beneath the ocean as the backdrop for your photoshoot in the sand. Waves gently lap against the shore as you exchange “I do’s.” And a cool sea breeze washes over your reception under the stars. These are the conditions that every couple planning a beach wedding deserves. Northwest Florida’s emerald waters, undoubtedly white sands and seemingly endless sunshine provide pristine conditions for picturesque beach weddings — as long as Mother Nature has it in her plans. So it is that weather factors must be considered when planning your dream day on the Emerald Coast.
One of the first steps in planning is deciding on the date. While rain chances increase in summer months and hurricane season persists from June through November, the Gulf Coast experiences an average 340 days of sunshine annually, with most summer showers passing quickly. Angela Kramer, weddings and special events manager at Hilton Sandestin Beach Golf Resort & Spa in Miramar Beach, posits that May, June and October are the most popular months for Northwest Florida weddings, as weather and lighting conditions for outdoor ceremonies are often ideal. No matter the day of year, it’s advised to have a rain plan in place. Venues such
JENNIFER G PHOTOGRAPHY (CEREMONY) AND JESSICA WINKLER PHOTOGRAPHY
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By Rebecca Padgett Frett