Having a dream wedding in a tropical location is a wonderful idea but with so many beach wedding gowns and bridal party clothing to choose from, what is the best choice? Don’t worry we’ll provide tips on selecting the correct beach attire for your special day.
Getting married in the tropics offers a number of unique challenges. Unlike a wedding close to home, much can be unknown about the venue and therefore decisions have to be made in advance to ensure a stress-free event and the comfort of the bride, groom, wedding party and guests.
While the destination may set the scene or theme for the wedding, choosing a beach wedding gown that best suits the bride and the location needs careful consideration. If the weather is very humid avoid beach wedding gowns which have fabrics that can cling or drape too closely to the body. Natural fabrics such as silk breathe and can be more comfortable. A single hooped cotton petticoat worn beneath the gown can assist with air flow. If the bodice is a corset, do not lace it too tightly as swelling and heat may make the bride dizzy or faint. When choosing the veil to complement the dress, select a style and weight of tulle which is light and detachable. A heavy veil over the face and covering the back can inhibit airflow and be most uncomfortable. Many brides remove the veil after the formal photographs are taken, so they can move freely and mingle with their guests at the reception.
Beach wedding gowns are not the only thing you need to consider though, as shoes are also important. Shoes for the bride and wedding party should not be too high. The humidity can cause uncomfortable and unflattering puffiness around the ankles. Delicate wedges or sandals with wider heels can be useful if your wedding is on the lawn or even sand.
If guests are walking any distance, having a second pair of walking shoes in a pretty bag is handy as many outdoor surfaces can be in poor condition. You may provide fans for the guests or suggest that they bring one if they’re to be exposed to sun or heat for any length of time. A parasol may be a useful and stylish addition to an outfit.
Bridal make-up and hair can suffer due to humidity and wind. Using a primer under a reliable foundation is essential and avoid pink eye-shadow as it can be unflattering in equatorial light. Strap marks can be very difficult to conceal. If your beach wedding gown is strapless avoid tan lines in the weeks leading up to the big day. If desperate, a spray of leg make-up may help even the coverage. Loosely curled hairstyles are unreliable and prone to drooping. Up styles can be more secure and are a much better option.
The choice of attire for the groom and groomsmen is much greater for a tropical wedding. Semi formal lightweight suits with cotton shirts and elegant ties are acceptable. Stylish shorts and interesting over shirts are often in tune with the location. The choice should reflect the bride’s gown and tone of the service and reception.
Please inform your guests of the dress code so that they can select outfits which are comfortable and suitable for your exotic wedding. Bright colours can look great and patterned fabric can hide any perspiration marks.
When planning the day allow for climate changes and ensure that the wedding party and guests are cool, comfortable and provided with shade, seating, refreshing hand wipes and cold non alcoholic drinks.
Finally, try to choose the season at your dream destination which is the least hot and humid. You will relax and enjoy the wedding so much more if you know that you’ve planned well.