Formal afternoon weddings will of course lead to usual "sit down" planned menus. Caterers will be necessary. The advantage being that whole affair will be tended to without you lifting a finger... for a price. In order to cut costs here, you will have to limit menu and guests.

So, if you have a large guest list and a limited budget, avoid marrying late in afternoon. Guests will be hungry and expect dinner reception. Instead, stick with a breakfast, brunch or cocktail reception.

The wedding industry dictates that a reception should be from three to five hours in length. Rubbish! A reception should be as long as it takes for you and your guests to enjoy each others company and have fun. It can last a couple of hours or all day if you like.

Don't feel obligated to stretch event out. Often, your older guests tire easily and would like to leave before designated departure time anyway. If you are having a beach side bash, consider a "come and go" atmosphere. Let people know what time your departure will be so they can be there to send you off.

As far as beach wedding reception ideas go, rule of thumb is - there is no rule of thumb! Break mold. Do something different, something fun, something memorable.

Whatever you and your guests will enjoy most, IS perfect beach wedding reception!

* The most important thing to remember when planning a beach wedding is that "Mother Nature" rules! Depending on her mood, she can brighten your day or rain on your parade! When planning your celebration, be sure to plan an "alternate location" should old girl be cranky that day!

* The beach is usually a bit breezy so take that into consideration when picking your location. Try to choose a "cove" on beach that is protected from direct winds.

* Be sure to check with local authorities regarding any permits needed to use beach. This should only be necessary if you are having a large gathering and you want to block off a portion of beach exclusively for you and your guests. Ask to be sure though.

* Check on "Beach Rules". Ask questions. Can you have candles on beach? Can you play music into night? How late can you stay? Is there an area nearby for open fires should you choose to barbeque?

* Speaking of food...don't forget about seagulls! They are notorious beggars and thieves. You can expect them to attend your beach wedding, uninvited! As long as you keep food covered and don't feed them, they will stay on sidelines.

* Remember tides. You definitely do not want to be surprised by quick and unanticipated arrival of high tide!

* On beach, there will be bugs and sunshine! Make sure you consider comfort of your guests. Bring sunscreen and insect repellant for those who did not remember to bring their own.

* Chairs may sink in sand if you do not rent flooring to place under them. However, if you are planning a "beach blanket" reception, you will not need chairs. Remember your elderly guests though. Plan for their safety and comfort. You will need to provide them with chairs and beach umbrellas to protect them from elements.

Beach weddings are absolutely beautiful but nature does provide an element of uncertainty. Careful planning on your part will eliminate most of them.

Just remember...

If every hair is not in place due to ocean breezes or a seagull drops off his "wedding gift" a little to close to punch bowl...

These are not flaws or imperfections in your day. They are "memories"! Cherish them and have fun!