Last week reminded us that Summer is definitely here, which means BEACH WEDDING SEASON is upon us! Being that I just served as a bridesmaid in black-tie, uber-traditional, capitol city wedding, I feel like the perfect candidate to dish out advice on how to properly care for your beachy bridesmaids. Okay, not exactly, but since I grew up by the sea, have dreamed of exchanging my vows in the sand (I thank The Little Mermaid for that fairytale vision of mine), and have a little bridesmaid experience up my dress, I have racked up a few suggestions on how to experience smooth sailing when it comes to bridesmaids on the coast. As a bridesmaid, I know I would greatly appreciate if my bride buddy kept these tips in mind.
1. Keep the dress short & sweet
No, it doesn’t have to be so short that your special ladies will wear it clubbing long after you’ve exchanged vows, but mid-calf or above is an optimal length. Let’s face it, your girls will be paying a fine penny to look beautiful during your special day, and we don’t want a dragging gown to get ruined and weathered by the sand or sea. Salt water, sand and ocean breeze do not mix with long, formal designer duds.
2. Consider off-the-rack
The beach screams relaxation, rejuvenation and fun, so it’s best not to pick bridesmaid dresses that scream the exact opposite. Your maids can be comfortable and chic in an easy to access off-the-rack dress! If none of the females in the wedding party require custom sized apparel, then buying off-the-rack is a more practical option that usually won’t break the bank. See the picture below with comfortable looking Jessica McClintock strapless dresses that make for a gorgeous and effortless wedding photo. Plus, all the women will surely be grateful for not having to make many a trek to the designer bridesmaid dress shop to have several fittings and alterations.
3. Some gift ideas
Bridesmaids are the lucky women you chose to stand beside you on one of the most significant days of your life. You love them, right? Whether they helped you tremendously or only slightly along the way, what matters is they’ve contributed to your happiness on your wedding day and you should express your gratitude towards them with a thoughtful gift. Since beach weddings are unlike any other wedding, it would be awesomely appreciated to give them something relevant and useful during their seaside stay. Here are some ideas.
•. A monogrammed beach bag filled with goodies such as a beach towel, flip flops, SPF, and perhaps a reusable, aluminum water bottle if you are feeling eco-friendly
•. A gift certificate to experience something adventurously unique to your beach location (i.e. wild horse tour, jet skiing, crabbing, surf lessons)
•. A large, hardcover coffee table book of the coastal town you are in, complete with gorgeous pictures to remember it by
•. A funky, bright colored make-up bag filled with a girls favorite seaside toiletries such as shimmery self tanner, tropical colored nail polish, bronzer, waterproof mascara, and a dual blush/lip stain
•. An always classic and traditional option is providing your besties with the jewelry they will be donning on your day