Tips for a Seamless Shore Celebration
New Jersey beach weddings come with ocean views, wide-open skies and a ceremony backdrop that requires very little decorating. They also come with sand, wind, humidity and boardwalks that have never once considered the needs of a stiletto.
None of that should talk you out of a Shore wedding. It just means a little planning goes a long way. From choosing beach-friendly shoes to keeping the rings safely out of the Atlantic, these practical tips can make getting married by the water considerably easier.
Photo credit: The Flander’s Hotel
Practical New Jersey Beach Wedding Tips You Might Not Think About
Choose Wedding-Friendly Footwear
Heels and sand rarely mix. Plan ahead with wedges, barefoot sandals, or flip flops for a smooth walk down the aisle and a carefree beach photo session after the ceremony.
Watch for Boardwalk Gaps
If your wedding aisle runs along a boardwalk, watch for the spaces between planks, as stilettos can easily get stuck. A little extra caution will keep your stride graceful and snag-free.
Style Your Hair for the Breeze
Coastal winds and humidity have a mind of their own. Therefore, you man want to wear an updo. They keep your look polished. However, prepare for waves to make a comeback if you have naturally curly hair. If you have straight hair that’s been curled, use extra hairspray to hold its shape against the elements.
Keep Rings Secure
During the ceremony, hold wedding rings firmly. It’s all too easy for a slip to send them through the slats and into the sea.
Expect the Unexpected on Public Beaches
Public beaches come with built-in charm and “surprise guests.” Don’t be shocked when a surfer or beachgoer playfully photobombs your first look.
Frequently Asked Questions About New Jersey Weddings on the Beach
What shoes work best for New Jersey beach weddings?
Flats, wedges, sandals and barefoot sandals are generally easier to manage on sand than traditional heels. If your ceremony involves a boardwalk, consider the gaps between the boards too. Thin heels and wooden planks are not natural allies.
How windy are New Jersey beach weddings?
Coastal breezes can range from pleasantly helpful to unexpectedly committed. Talk with your hairstylist about a style that can handle wind and humidity, and secure veils, ceremony décor and signage so coastal breezes don’t send them across the beach.
What happens if it rains on a New Jersey beach wedding day?
Have an indoor or covered backup plan before the forecast becomes a group-chat emergency. Ask your venue when the decision to move indoors is typically made and what the alternate ceremony space looks like.
Do you need a permit to get married on a New Jersey beach?
It depends on the municipality and specific beach. Some Shore towns require permits or have rules governing ceremonies, group sizes, setup and timing. Check with the municipality where you’re getting married well before the wedding date.
What should guests know before attending a beach wedding?
Give guests a heads-up if they’ll be walking on sand or a boardwalk so they can choose appropriate shoes. It’s also helpful to mention whether any part of the celebration will be outdoors so everyone can plan for the temperature, sun and coastal breeze.
Keep Exploring New Jersey Wedding Venues
Once you’ve figured out how to handle the sand, wind and footwear, there’s the slightly larger matter of choosing where to celebrate.
Explore New Jersey wedding venues on PartySpace to find everything from Shore celebrations and waterfront spaces to gardens, estates, farms and mountain resorts throughout the state.
Want to keep the search near the water? Explore our 6 Jersey Shore Wedding Venues From Spring Lake to Cape May for venues where the coastal setting is already part of the plan.
Because the ocean can handle the backdrop. The venue still has to handle everything else.
