Last Updated on August 24, 2023 by Carla Jonas
Estimated reading time: 19 minutes
Congratulations, you’re getting married! While you couldn’t be more excited about the big event, the process of planning a wedding from A to Z can feel overwhelming – and that’s often an understatement. But, as most brides will tell you, everything starts falling into place once you pick out your venue or your wedding theme – or both at once. Insert Beach Weddings, aka one of the top choices of Millennial brides and grooms on the lookout for utterly romantic, nature-enthused locations and wedding concepts.
Surrounded by the beauty of nature itself, mesmerized by the turquoise hues of the ocean and delighted with the warm breeze – in other words, the ideal backdrop for a beach wedding to remember. In addition, the perfect opportunity to incorporate nature’s finest treasures into both your bridal look and the décor, aka radiant, dainty pearls. However, if you are still not sold on tying the knot in this way, here are a few more reasons to say ‘YES!’ to a wedding on the beach.
Top Reasons to Pick a Beach Wedding
- You want an easygoing, relaxed wedding
- The idea of using nature as the backdrop of your ceremony is very appealing
- You love the idea of an intimate affair
- Peaceful and calm fits your ideal much more than noisy and crowded
- Having the sound of the waves as your background ‘music’ is definitely a charming idea
- You want a wedding with high romantic appeal
- You plan on saving on décor – and can easily do so by using the location as inspiration for your theme
- The bridal style you’re envisioning comes with flowy lace dresses, loose waves and a boho, relaxed vibe
- Blue is your favorite color and you plan on incorporating it in your wedding palette
- If you’re opting for a destination beach wedding, you can totally cut the costs. Simply merge the wedding destination with the honeymoon!
And, the best part of it all: even if you don’t live close to the shore (and aren’t thrilled with the idea of a destination wedding), you can still choose a beach wedding theme. How so? Basically, simply opt for beach-inspired decorations, as well as a bridal look curated around the idea of nature’s finest: the beach and the sea, with its many wonderful treasures.
The Beach Wedding Aesthetic: A Nature-Inspired Affair
It’s settled: you love the idea of opting for a beach wedding. But what does this particular location (and theme) entail? Fact is, there are many ways to style your wedding venue, as well as yourself when taking the beach wedding route. While many concepts that fit under the same umbrella, there’s one thing they all have in common: the fact that they find their inspiration in nature.
When choosing the beach as your wedding location, half the job is already done. Your backdrop is already gorgeous, crafted to perfection by nature itself. Firstly, utilizing what nature has to offer with minimal intervention is definitely a foolproof strategy when opting for a beach wedding. From ditching the background music in favor of the sound of the waves and opting for natural elements that reside in the ocean or on the beach (seashells, pearls, starfish) for décor, the possibilities are endless.
We’ve curated for you a list of bridal styling, as well as venue styling ideas centered around pearls. Moreover, we’ve categorized them under three different beach theme concepts. From the vibrant tropical-enthused wedding concept to the tranquil coastal vibes and the whimsical romantic-chic style, here are the best styling tips on making pearls a part of your big day.
Beach Wedding Concept 1: Coastal Blue
Known as the most popular beach wedding theme, the Coastal Blue / Shades of Blue concept features a stunning range of azure hues. Often paired with neutrals like beige and taupe (representing the shades of the sand) or with greys and lilacs, the coastal blue wedding is serene, relaxed yet poised and cohesive with nature itself. If you love the color of the ocean and everything from its waves to its corals and pearls, then commit to a palette of soft, nature-inspired hues, with the occasional pop of turquoise or cobalt blue. Similarly, for a cohesive bridal look, opt for a flowy wedding dress that provides lots of movement and silver tone jewelry pieces (such as white gold pearl bracelets), featuring pearls and gemstones in shades of blue. Even better, opt for a pearl engagement ring to set the beach-inspired tone. Moreover, avoid structure and rigidity, both when it comes to your beach wedding dress, as well as your jewelry and wedding hairstyle.
The elements: seashells, corals and pearls, starfish and other treasures of the sea.
The colors: aqua blue, powder blue, silver grey, soft lilac, taupe, turquoise and cobalt.
1. Opt for Pearl & Oyster Placecards
Introduce your beach wedding theme from the get-go with placecards borrowed from the sea: oyster shells, decorated with loose pearls. Whether you opt for an organic look and use the shells as they are or paint them in a coat of silver or gold paint, the results are visually stunning and perfectly fitting for a wedding on the beach.
2. Choose Bridal Tincup Jewelry
A relaxed beach wedding that denotes tranquility calls for simple, dangly pearl jewelry pieces that provide movement and flounce – and one of the best choices is no other than tincup jewelry. Opt for a pair of tincup earrings in crisp white Freshwater pearls or Akoya pearls, featuring radiant white pearls and aqua blue gemstones.
JEWELRY SPOTLIGHT:
If you love tincup jewelry pieces, you will simply adore the pairing of radiant pearls with stunning gemstones. From dangly earrings designed to add a twinkle of glow to your look to light-catching amethyst and enigmatic quartz, gemstone pearl jewelry is a modern alternative to the classics, carrying a fresh, youthful and chic appeal.
3. Add Pearl Accents to Your Wedding Cake
Stay on the pearl-enthused beach wedding theme with a wedding cake inspired by the waves of the ocean, complete with darling pearl accents and decorated with seashells.
4. Opt for Pearl Napkin Rings
Whether you choose to craft them yourself using loose pearls or purchase a matching set, pearl napkin rings are definitely a stunning addition to any wedding tablescape. Pair your pearl napkin rings of choice with aqua blue or turquoise fabric napkins and silver hued tableware.
5. Create Ocean-Inspired Centerpieces
One of the most popular beach wedding centerpieces is budget-friendly, easy to recreate and visually stunning, namely ocean’s treasures bowls or vases. Filled with seashells, pearls and corals (with the optional flowers as an extra), these beach wedding centerpieces are a sure way to set the theme of your event. Moreover, they work perfectly with seashell placecards, adorned with pearls.
6. Decorate Your Beach Wedding with Pearl Garlands
There is something whimsical about decorating your beach wedding with pearls, be it when creating the centerpieces, the table numbers or when adorning the bride and groom’s chairs. One of the easiest ways to add an extra touch of ocean’s finest is to opt for pearl garlands as décor for your arch, above the tables or when creating a photo-op backdrop.
7. Add the Ocean’s Gems on Your Wedding Invitations
Set the tone of your wedding theme from the start by sending your guests simple, minimalistic wedding invitations, each adorned with a solitaire pearl. Stick to a palette of azures, lilacs and neutrals for a cohesive look that perfectly captures the magical underwater world.
Beach Wedding Concept 2: Tropical Paradise
Lush, exotic, and bold, the Tropical Paradise beach wedding comes with an arsenal of vibrant hues from corals and flamingo pinks to rich greens and the mandatory turquoise. Adding accents of glow and sophistication, pearls perfectly complete the tropical paradise look, ideal for a beach wedding at sunset – and perfect for a destination wedding to remember. Convey joy, exuberance and vacation vibes by forgoing the classics and opting for alternative jewelry pieces, such as Tahitian black pearls or off-round baroque pearls.
The elements: tropical leaves, Hawaiian flowers, exotic blooms, seashells and unique pearls.
The colors: fuchsia and flamingo pink, salmon and coral hues, bold yellow and saturated green, plus pigmented turquoise.
1. Make Pearls a Part of Your Bouquet
A few years back, bouquets made entirely out of seashells, starfish and pearls were all the craze in the beach weddings arena. However, if you are envisioning a bridal bouquet that’s lightweight, this darling pearl-adorned arrangement is an utterly chic option. The look: opt for a colorful bouquet of colors and accent their beauty with white pearls (https://www.thepearlsource.com/white-pearls.php) for an extra touch of glam.
2. Adorn Your Plates with Pearls
Your go-to ingredient for an instantly elevated wedding dinner table look: pearls. Make your favorite gems a part of your tablescape by opting for pearl-embellished plates, perfectly matched with a plethora of pink shades and blush napkins. Adding a touch of refined glam to your table décor, pearls can elevate even the most rustic of settings and venues.
3. Opt for Exotic Pearl Statement Earrings
Dainty and discreet is not the right match for an exuberant tropical beach wedding theme, which is why your choice of jewelry should definitely follow the exotic aesthetic. Therefore, forgo the classic white pearl studs in favor of larger drop or dangle pearl earrings with unique gems, be it baroque, black pearls, or ocean jewels in alternative undertones, such as golden, purple or even blue. Our pick: exotic and dark Tahitian Pearls in iridescent shades.
JEWELRY SPOTLIGHT:
If you choose to forgo the classic whites in favor of more exotic jewelry pieces, Golden South Sea A perfect match for unique engagement rings, Pearl Earrings including stud earrings and drop styles make a stunning choice for your big day. Add a soft glow in warm hues with a pair of Golden South Sea earrings, for a unique take on traditional bridal jewelry.
4. Add Pearls to Your Beach Wedding Ring Holder
Sand, seashell, flowers, pearls – the perfect recipe for a beach wedding ring holder that is simply elegant. In addition, this gorgeous ring holder is definitely photo-op-worthy, easy to recreate, as well as budget-friendly. Go the extra mile and stage a photo-shoot featuring a seashell holder and your stunning pearl engagement ring.
5. Add a Lush Pearl Flower Hairpin
When creating a tropical-inspired beach wedding, florals and pearls make a stunning pairing. For instance, decorate your loose waves with a lush Hawaiian bloom adorned with darling white pearls.
6. Make an Eclectic Statement with a Shoulder Pearl Necklace
A lush, bold-colored floral backdrop works best next to a statement jewelry piece that looks positively mesmerizing from every angle. Discover a new beach wedding bridal look favorite: pearl shoulder necklaces, perfectly paired here with a loose waves updo and a statement pearl ring.
Beach Wedding Concept 3: Romantic-Chic
The beach is the perfect place for an utterly romantic wedding ceremony and reception. If you love the idea of using the ocean, the sand and the sky as your backdrop, and dream of a whimsy-filled event that carries a bohemian aura, then this beach wedding theme is for you. Create a cohesive look by opting for a color palette in neutral hues like blush, dusty pinks, lavender, pistachio, seafoam green and natural browns. Next, include a wide range of romantic details: lace, pearl strands, bows, lush blooms like peonies and roses and crochet and twine for a more rustic vibe. For your bridal look, a lace dress can’t go wrong, especially if paired with radiant white pearls, loose waves and pearl-adorned hairpins.
The elements: lace, white pearls, crochet, twine, pearl strands, roses and peonies.
The colors: dusty shades of pink, seafoam and lilac, plus browns from taupe to rich chocolate for accents.
1. Pair a Lace Beach Wedding Dress with a Pearl Necklace
There’s nothing that exudes romantic appeal more than a timeless lace dress – and, given the location of your wedding, the less structure and the more flow, the better. Complete your bridal look by opting for a classic pearl necklace that channels the romantic, old-school glam to perfection.
JEWELRY SPOTLIGHT:
The classic go-to choice for brides on the lookout for a timeless jewelry piece: necklaces in White Akoya Pearls. Featuring ultra-radiant white pearls, Akoya pearl necklaces truly stand the test of time. And, if you are looking for extra glow, opt for an ultra-lustrous Hanadama Pearl Necklace that twinkles in any light from The Pearl Source.
2. Decorate Your Tables with Pearl Garland Candles
A simple centerpiece you can easily recreate goes a long way when aiming to enjoy a romantic atmosphere. Discover the tranquil beauty of pearl garland-adorned candles – one of the chicest ideas for a beach wedding to remember.
3. Opt for Pearl-Adorned Barefoot Beach Sandals
Since you’ll be getting married on the warm sand, ditching the heels is not only appropriate, but actually recommended. Instead, opt for a pair of barefoot sandals crafted from lace, chain and pearls, for a relaxed bridal look that is not only comfortable, but very pretty and whimsical.
4. Wear Matching Rose Pearl Bracelets with Your Bridesmaids
Gift each of your bridesmaids a pearl bracelet / corsage, featuring radiant white pearls and blush pink roses. Showing your gratitude for all their help and support has never looked this lovely. Besides, you’ll be adding to the romantic charm of your beach wedding with this cohesive gift.
5. Adorn the Bride and Groom Chairs with Pearls and Flowers
Capture the magic of beach weddings with a darling bridal chair adornment: pearl strands, in hues like white, ivory, rose, golden or blush. In addition, complete the look with dainty bows on each side for a refined and romance-filled touch to your venue décor.
6. Create Dreamcatchers & Pearls Backdrops
If you love a boho-inspired look, one of the newest crazes in the weddings décor arena is stunning backdrops, created from a mix of dreamcatchers. Complete with strands of pearls and lace ribbons that move with the breeze, this backdrop makes a visually mesmerizing setting for your beach wedding ceremony.
7. Adorn Your Arch with Flowers and Pearls
Another option that adds charm to your venue is a wooden arch, decorated with branches, flowers and pearl strands, perfect as a backdrop for your first kiss as a married couple.
8. Opt for Pearl Frame Table Numbers
A cohesive tablescape that carries the same romantic vibe as your bridal look and décor starts with a table number that serves as a focal point. Opt for pearl-embellished frames as your table numbers, perfectly complemented by romantic rose flower arrangements.
9. Create a Romantic Photo Prop with a Vintage Frame and Pearls
A great way to incorporate a touch of vintage-chic charm into your beach wedding is by creating a photo backdrop. Namely, use an antique picture frame, decorated with golden pearls and lush blooms and enjoy the insta-worthy moment.
10. Wear Pearls in Your Hair
Feminine, delicate, whimsical. Pair up your loose curls with a delicate hair crown or pin that features clear gems in combination with pearls, perfect for a lace dress that moves as you move.
11. Dress up Simple Jars with Lace and Pearls
If you are looking for ways to enhance the romantic vibe of your beach wedding, there’s nothing simpler than adorning mason jars with twine, lace and pearls or mother of pearl. In addition, use your vases to store delicate blooms like baby’s breath, as centerpieces or as ways to store napkins or cutlery.
Whether you choose the romantic beach wedding concept, the coastal blue theme or the tropical extravaganza, your beach wedding is sure to look stunning when incorporating the gems of the sea both in your bridal look and in your décor. With backdrops like the ocean itself and the sound of the waves in the background, your beach wedding is destined to be everything you could dream of: romantic, whimsical and serene – a perfect start for a beautiful love story.
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