Planning Your Perfect Beach Wedding In Cape Town
When planning a beach wedding in Cape Town there are a few things that you should consider first
Cape Town’s picturesque coastline and blue flag status beaches create a romantic ambiance that’s hard to resist. As you imagine exchanging vows with the ocean waves crashing in the background, it’s easy to envision a beautiful beach wedding.
Before you start planning your Cape Town Beach Wedding, we’ve gathered some valuable insights from The Wedding Fairy, a renowned local expert. We asked her to share her top tips for making your special day truly unforgettable.
If you’re thinking of saying ‘I Do’ with the sand between your toes, read on for essential advice and get in touch with The Wedding Fairy for more information.
ASK YOUR WEDDING PLANNER FOR HELP
As you plan your beachside wedding, it’s easy to overlook some of the unexpected details that can arise. A professional wedding planner can help mitigate any last-minute surprises by providing expert guidance throughout the planning process. While it may seem like an added expense, hiring a wedding planner can actually save you time and stress in the long run, allowing you to focus on what really matters – your special day. Reach out to a reputable wedding planning service for support.
Consider the additional costs factored into a beach wedding.
As you finalise your wedding budget, it’s essential to consider the unique costs associated with a beach wedding in Cape Town. The permit cost alone can be substantial, depending on the size of your event and setup requirements. Additionally, you’ll need to factor in the basic needs of your guests, which a traditional venue would typically provide. Start by accounting for permits, power supply, and extra manual labour required for setup.
Don’t forget to consider accessibility for all your guests, including those with mobility issues. You may also need to bring in additional suppliers for items like tables, chairs, shading, staff, cutlery, crockery, glassware, and facilities like bathrooms and running water. Catering requirements will also depend on the availability of workable surfaces and equipment for food preparation and heating.
Your guests will appreciate adequate shading during the day and warmth in the evening, although you can’t fully mitigate against Cape Town’s unpredictable weather patterns. Despite knowing the best times for outdoor weddings (typically between November to March), there’s still a risk of rain or wind, no matter how closely you monitor the weather forecast. So, be sure to check for high tide before your big day and have a plan in place for any unexpected conditions.
Apply for the necessary permits
While the allure of a seaside wedding is undeniable, it’s crucial to consider that beaches are public spaces governed by specific regulations. In Cape Town, for instance, a permit from the City Council is necessary to celebrate on the beach. If your chosen location falls within the jurisdiction of South African National Parks, you’ll need to submit your application through their official website.
Additionally, certain events may require supplementary permits, such as those related to baboon safety, health and safety concerns, or noise regulations.
Contingency plans are important and should be planned for
When planning an outdoor wedding, it’s essential to have a backup plan in place for unexpected weather conditions. One approach is to secure a secondary venue on standby, if budget permits. Alternatively, consider renting a marquee as a versatile and adaptable solution. A marquee can be utilized regardless of the weather, with options to provide full enclosure during colder months or open sides to let in the breeze when it’s warm.
This thoughtful planning will help alleviate any last-minute stress or anxiety.