Whether you've lived here your whole life or are flying hundreds of miles for a destination wedding, you know the beach setting is a big reason you're getting married here. So let your locale inform your details. Choose one of these ideas to add Virginia Beach flair or multiple elements to push a theme.
De-sanding Station
Instead of the usual flip-flop favors, urge guests to go barefoot for your beach ceremony, and then brush off their feet before they head inside for your reception. Put a beach pail full of three-inch wall paintbrushes and add a sign letting guests know what to do!
Seashell Details
If you're planning on incorporating treasures from the sea into your décor, winter is the best time to scour Assateague Island -- especially after a windy nor'easter has sent waves up to the foot of the dunes. Just remember that the National Park Service limits the number of empty shells collected to one gallon per visit.
State Slogan
Why not use an idea straight from the tourism brochures? Give your guests bumper stickers, chocolates or even koozies embellished with the famous "Virginia Is for Lovers" slogan. TheVAStore.com
Salt-jar Favors
Corked, glass bottles filled with different types of sea salt or herb-infused cooking salt is a great way to treat your guests to beachy favors with a built-in marine theme.
Wave Stationery
For stationery that reflects your beachfront setting, cut the tops of plain, white invitations, menu cards and escort cards to look like waves. Set out your escort cards on a blue linen–covered table so it looks like the ocean. If you want to skip the wavy edges, display your cards on top of clear plastic cubes of varying heights.
Green Goodness
If you're trying to keep things green (or just really fresh) for your wedding meals, why not turn to local vendors for local goods? Vegetables grown right there in the region will not only taste better, you'll be giving back to the community that is hosting your special day. Five Points Community Farm Market, Norfolk, (757) 966-6577
Beach-themed Welcome Bags
Welcome your out-of-town guests with a bag full of beach goodies, like sunscreen, bottled water, towels, shovels and pails. You can even stick in a waterproof disposable camera so they can keep the digital one safe in the hotel room.
Gourmet Chocolates
Treat your guests to something more special than mass-produced candy. Elegantly hand-molded gourmet chocolates will tempt their taste buds and add an exquisite touch to your tables. Add sea shell–shaped chocolates (in regular or white) to your cake or centerpieces for a sweet seaside touch. Prices range from $9 to $37. Trafton's Chocolates, Virginia Beach, TraftonsChocolates.com
Seafood Spread
For authentic oceanfront flavor, consider a local seafood expert to cater your reception. Opt for an old-fashioned lobster boil or a full-service sushi bar. But don't forget to make non-seafood options available for guests who have allergies! Mahi Mahs Seafood Restaurant & Sushi Saloon, Virginia Beach, (757) 437-8030, MahiMahs.com
Local Stationery Artists
Whether you're planning a destination wedding or you're a Virginia Beach local, why not turn to a regional stationery artist for your paper product needs? Work with the ladies at RSVP to come up with the perfect motif for your beachfront soiree. RSVP Unique Stationery & Gifts, Virginia Beach, (757) 498-6100, RSVPStationery.net
-- Carrie Chambers