8 Budget-Friendly Beach Wedding Ideas to Steal

The pros spill some creative ideas.
Sarah Title - Bridal Fashion & Shopping Expert.
by
Sarah Title
Sarah Title - Bridal Fashion & Shopping Expert.
Sarah Title
Bridal Fashion & Shopping Expert
  • Sarah writes a variety of content for The Knot and WeddingWire, including bridal fashion advice and product recommendations.
  • Sarah’s work has also been featured in Brides, Nicki Swift, Betches and Style Me Pretty.
  • Sarah lives in Alexandria, VA with her (new) husband and golden retriever named Brady.
Updated Oct 30, 2024

There's something incredibly magical about an affordable beach wedding. It's already a place many people go to find comfort, solace and relaxation, so adding in some vows and a celebration only feels fitting. "A beach wedding close to home can feel like a mini getaway for you and your guests, offering that vacation atmosphere without travel expenses," says Jennifer Cortiella of Cortiella Photography based in South Florida. The natural beauty all around serves as the perfect backdrop for an incredibly romantic day. We tapped an expert to spill some of her most creative wedding ideas on a budget for a beach wedding. Keep reading for her top-notch ideas to incorporate into your wedding day.

1. Beach Decor

The best part about a beach wedding? The decor is practically built in. "Instead of renting expensive decorations, get crafty with DIY projects," Cortiella suggests. "Think string lights, homemade centerpieces using seashells or driftwood and handmade signage. Pinterest can be your best friend when it comes to gathering inspiration and templates to recreate coastal themes on a budget."

2. Food Trucks

Traditional catering might cost more than you're looking to spend, especially if you have a larger guest list. If your beach wedding has more of a casual vibe, think about hiring a food truck as a wedding food idea on a budget. "Food trucks tend to be more affordable than traditional caterers and offer a fun, laid-back vibe perfect for a beach-inspired celebration," Cortiella says. Consider serving up coastal fare like lobster rolls, fried shrimp or other seafood dishes. Use The Knot Budget Tool to find out how these food costs fit in your affordable beach wedding.

3. Alternative Invites

Paper invites can cost you a pretty penny, not to mention the cost of stamps. "Instead of spending money on fancy paper invitations, opt for digital invites," Cortiella recommends. "They're eco-friendly, budget-conscious and can be just as personalized with unique designs, photos and colors. Some platforms even offer free templates that match beach themes." If you're committed to sending physical invitations, check out The Knot Paper for inexpensive wedding invitations.

4. Provide Flip-Flops

If you're tying the knot in the sand, you might want to offer your guests a change of shoes so they don't get their heels or dressy ones sandy. For this beach wedding idea, buy flip-flops in bulk and set them right at the entrance to the wedding ceremony. Provide a safe place for them to put their dress shoes while watching you swap vows on the sand. Guests are sure to appreciate the gesture.

5. Provide Blankets

No matter how warm the temp, the ocean breeze is naturally going to make things a bit chilly. Consider grabbing some affordable throw blankets (or repurposing ones from your own house) and putting them on the chairs for guests to use during the ceremony. It'll make their experience a lot more pleasant.

6. Seashell Escort Cards

There's no need to buy or print names with table numbers on them when you can pick up some shells from the beach and write down table assignments with a permanent marker. With this beach wedding idea on a budget, you'll save money on calligraphy and it'll fit right in with your aesthetic.

7. Get Married at a Local Beach

Looking for affordable beach wedding venues? Avoid paying hefty venue fees by tying the knot at your local public beach. "Many public beaches are free or come with a minimal permit fee, saving you thousands compared to a traditional wedding venue," Cortiella says. "Plus, the beach setting offers versatility for both ceremony and reception in one place." Find beach wedding venues near you by searching The Knot Vendor Marketplace and selecting the "beach" filter.

Beach Wedding Venues by State: California | North Carolina

Beach Wedding Venues by City: Clearwater Beach | Daytona Beach | Delray Beach | Huntington Beach | Long Beach | Miami Beach | Myrtle Beach | Newport Beach | New Smyrna Beach | Palm Beach | Rosemary Beach | St. Pete Beach | Vero Beach

8. Nix the Ceremony Arch

A floral ceremony arch or floral wall is a good idea if you're getting married without much of a view, but hosting a beach wedding on a budget is the perfect opportunity to forgo extravagant decor. "One of the most significant advantages is the beautiful, natural setting," Cortiella explains. "The ocean, sand and sky serve as a stunning backdrop, meaning you can save money on extravagant decor."

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