Learn how to plan a destination wedding in Gulf Shores- from a wedding photographer!
There are TONS of options to consider when planning a destination wedding in Gulf Shores. From time of year, number of guests, whether or not to use a wedding planner, or where to find the proper permits… it can get really overwhelming!
The good news is, I’m here to help answer questions and offer some of my top tips for planning your destination wedding in Gulf Shores!
I’ve spent my entire life living on the Gulf Coast and have been a wedding photographer for about 7 years now! I’ve seen the good, the bad, and the ugly when it comes to things that can happen that may affect your wedding day on the beach.
My first tip is to consider the time of year.
Most of the summer here is our peak season (June-August) meaning there are more crowds than usual and vendors book out much farther in advance. You may need to book your rental, photographer, and other vendors farther our in advance than you were expecting! Another important thing to consider is weather. I know hurricane season can be a scary thing to think about- and you may be dreaming of a summer wedding. Just be sure to consider the pros and cons, and how flexible you may need to be in case of stormy summer weather.
My personal favorite times of year for beach weddings are Spring and Fall. March-April, or October-November are usually gorgeous for a destination wedding in Gulf Shores! The weather is perfect- not too hot, and the crowds are much smaller. (This means that you’ll have less beach-goers watching in the background if you’re planning a wedding on the beach.)
Make sure you check on events or holiday weekends! Some events draw in HUGE crowds that could make it difficult for planning your destination wedding in Gulf Shores. Look into events happening in town on the date you choose, make sure to avoid times that may cross over events like Hangout Fest, the Shrimp Festival and others. Here’s a link to our upcoming events calendar. It is up-to-date on all the things happening in Gulf Shores and Orange Beach.
My second tip is to connect with quality local vendors.
Being a tourist area- we have hundreds of beach wedding companies. Be careful who you choose, because they are not all created equal lol. No hate if a hands-off approach is your thing! You have tons of options for someone who will handle every aspect of your destination wedding in Gulf Shores. Just know that this is usually a one-hour set up with your arch/chairs/etc. Your time is spent on ceremony and photos directly afterward. Most of these weddings do not include assistance with your reception or personalized photography coverage.
Having been a photographer on the Gulf Coast for years- I know lots of amazing wedding planners that would love to help plan your dream destination wedding. We can all work together to make sure your entire day goes off without a hitch! Or even if you’re a DIY bride- I can send lots of recommendations for other vendors (catering, set-up, MUAs, etc) and I love to assist you with the day-of timeline as well as anything else you may need!
Lastly, be sure to do some research about the ceremony location.
Many couples don’t realize that the city of Gulf Shores as well as the Gulf State Park require a permit in order to hold your ceremony on the beach. (Yes, this is something I can help you with!) The State Park does have beautiful beaches, but your purchase of a permit for a certain time/date does not ensure that there will be no other weddings happening at the same time. I’ve seen many days where there are four weddings happening at the same location!
If you’re looking for a more private experience for yourself and your guests, I would advise to hold the ceremony on the beach in front of your rental. The majority of rentals here don’t mind- and you can have the wedding party all at the same location for the getting ready portion of the day! These are my favorite kind of destination wedding in Gulf Shores because we’re able to relax. No worries of driving between locations- your makeup artist can come to you, and you can set up your reception in the sand or on the lower level! I love it when my couples are able to truly enjoy the entire day!
If you’re considering a destination wedding in Gulf Shores or anywhere along the Gulf Coast- I would love to work with you! Make sure to submit your inquiry before the remaining 2023 dates are full!
