Planning a Beach Wedding
On a romantic island

Planning a beach wedding sounds idyllic and I think it's oh so romantic.

Ahhh, just imagine walking through soft silky sand on the way to make your vows with warm sunshine on your back...

Plus on a practical level, it's a great way to save money as you can get some great destination wedding packages these days.

But before you rush out to book the flights, there are a few things to consider first.

Island Beach Weddings

• Which destination? The Caribbean may sound wonderful but will close friends and relatives be able to afford it? Planning a wedding destination closer to home may be more appropriate and it will also work out cheaper.

• Will it actually be sunny? Sounds like a silly question, but idyllic beach locations can be subject to violent storms just like anywhere else in the world. Check the likely weather conditions in your chosen destination and make sure you don't go in the rainy season!

• What paperwork will you need? Most specialised wedding resorts will send you a detailed list of legal requirements but if you are organising things yourself, you need to contact the the relevant embassy to double check what documents will be required.

  See my checklist of legal requirements for couples wanting to get married in Cyprus where I live as an example.

• What time of day for your beach wedding? In some cases you may be restricted to what time you can get married, for example if you need to visit a registry office first which only opens in the morning; if you have the choice, remember that in a hot country, a wedding later in the day may be the best - otherwise you may end up literally boiling in your wedding attire.

  You won't want to take your vows in searing mid-day heat, for instance, unless there is plenty of shade or you want sunglasses in your photos!

  Early evening is a great time to tie the knot as you can then have your reception party as the sun goes down or even indulge in a sunset cruise to add something special to your big day.

Beach Theme Weddings

Remember that in many countries you need to be "resident" in the country for several days before the ceremony. Make sure you build in enough time.

Be careful not to get sunburnt in the days leading up to the wedding. You won't look your best if you have the apperance of a rock lobster!

And on that subject, make sure you apply sun-cream on the wedding day. Apply it several hours beforehand so it has time to sink in and has less chance of staining your dress. Look for sun creams that are odourless and just leave a clear "film" on the skin - these do not stain dresses.

Hot climates are prone to bugs and mosquitos so remember also to apply some insect repellant otherwise you will be itching like crazy as you take your beach wedding vows.

Tip: Watch for "extras" added on by wedding resorts. Make sure you read the small print as to what is included first!