The waves crashing in the background. The sun setting at a distance. The sand beneath your feet. A beach wedding has many romantic elements built-in, a reason why brides dream of getting married on the coast. 

While the scenery is already perfect, you still have to design the rest of your day carefully. You want to choose the right accessories and decor to play up the sandy surrounds, rather than taking away from them. Fortunately, it’s not all that difficult to strike the perfect balance on your big day — here’s how.

Jewelry: Keep It Light

A beach wedding tends to err on the casual side, as far as ceremonies go. If you haven’t found your gown already, you’ll probably discover that many traditional options feel too bulky or fussy for your nuptials. Instead, most beach brides opt for something lightweight and flowy — if it goes with bare feet, that’s even better.

Next, there’s the beach wedding hairstyle, which you should choose with the weather in mind. A sea breeze might mess up a too-perfect updo. However, a gentle blow-out, chignon or even a ponytail would suit a beachside wedding. 

You need to consider all of these elements before you choose your jewelry, too. Dangling baubles could end up blowing in the wind, which would be a pain to deal with. In the tradition of stripped-down and simple beach weddings, you don’t want to overdo it. 

Some brides will go extra earthy and forego jewels in favor of a flower crown. You can also use your wedding as an excuse to splurge on an extra-special piece of vintage jewelry. A retro necklace makes a great addition to a beachy ensemble — just make sure it matches the neckline of your dress. For instance, a halter dress will give you plenty of decolletage area to work with, allowing you to wear a longer pendant. 

In the end, the best advice is to go light with your beach wedding jewelry. You might want to pile on bracelets, earrings and necklaces in honor of your big day. However, your beauty and the stunning surroundings will speak for themselves. 

Decor: The Finishing Touch

Beach-wedding decor is a lot like your bridal jewelry — you don’t need much to polish things off. The backdrop will provide much of the beauty you seek on your big day. With just a few finishing touches, you’ll have the perfect scene to say, “I do.” 

During the ceremony itself, a few coastal elements will bring a beachy theme to life. For instance, you might pop your rings into a mother-of-pearl box. Some brides and grooms have dangled starfish or sand dollars from coastal trees. 

Of course, you can leave the backdrop alone and add a bit of extra romance with candle-filled lanterns. You don’t want to throw flower petals to line the aisle, but you could use seashells or pebbles to do the trick. 

Inside of your reception hall — if you go indoors to celebrate — you can amp up the beachiness if you want. Many couples use oceanic elements, such as shells and sea glass, to fill their centerpieces or inspire seating maps. Your favors can have a coastal edge to them, too. A pair of sunglasses or a sack of seasoned sea salt will go over well with guests. 

Let the Sea Speak For Itself

Ultimately, less is more when it comes to a beach wedding. After all, you chose the location for all of its natural beauty — there’s no need to cover yourself with bling or over-decorate the ceremony. Instead, you’ll have the perfect day because it’s simple, it’s on the beach and it’s yours.

References: Brides, “20 Must-See Beach Wedding Hairstyle Ideas”;  Dover Jewelry & Diamonds, “How to Combine Your Vintage Jewelry with Style”; The Knot, “15 Beach-Themed Decorations for a Chic Seaside Wedding”; Weddingomania; “54 Amazing Beach Wedding Centerpieces”

Photos courtesy of (in order of appearance): Koman Photography, Sanaz Photography & Danielle Coons Photography

For more image inspiration, you can purchase the magazine issues they are featured in as follows (in order of appearance): Winter 2020; Winter 2019; Summer 2019