For many couples, getting married in a romantic California location is the dream of a lifetime. The location that makes you want to stay all day, feel relaxed, and uplifted is surely going to be one that gives you the wedding day you’ve been envisioning.
The California coastline is considered one of those places. If you ask most people, they will agree that the California coast offers choices, color, and beauty. It is unlike any other place on earth.
Speaking of California weddings, I just have to share this true story.
The Bride In The Coffee Shop
A couple of years ago, I was heading for coffee at my local haunt. It was during one of the smokiest days, so everyone was wearing masks—for a different reason. While standing in line, a bride in a beautiful gown and her mom in a stunning blue dress, entered.
As if on cue, the line of customers parted. “Make way for the bride!” was the cry that caused us all to step back, and applaud.
It turned out that the reason the bride and her mom were stopping for coffee, as she worked at the shop. She was one of my favorite baristas. But that wasn’t all.
The bride’s house was in an evacuation zone. In talking with them, I found out that the bride and her mom had a ‘go-bag’ packed in the car. They were heading to a new location in San Francisco.
As a last-minute public venue, they had decided to hold the wedding at The Palace of Fine Arts in San Francisco. The after-party was set for the beach, at the edge of Golden Gate Park.
As we all applauded and stood in awe of her courage, the bride and mom headed out. Cappuccino in hand, they went forward to the wedding event—with the spirit of ‘nothing will stop us.”
Planning and Preparing
You may have the good fortune to be planning your wedding—without the threat of fire evacuation or COVID-19 precautions. Like the bride in the coffee shop, you never really know if you’ll need a last-minute Plan B.
However you are making your wedding planning timeline, you can consider some of the recent events. These may not be in traditional lists, but have a place in your preparations.
Climate Changes
With global climate changes, traditional wedding seasons may shift. Consider the potential for fire, rains, storms, and wind conditions. It’s not that having a wedding in August is a bad idea, just that you want to be ready for events.
Health and Safety
Many couples have proceeded with wedding plans, despite recent public health conditions. They have used their innate creativity to respond in ways that were previously unexplored. Outdoor weddings. Virtual nuptials. Small gatherings.
As you care about health and safety, these have a prominent place in organizing your special day.
Travel Considerations
A natural extension of unprecedented changes includes that some of your guests may experience travel restrictions. Consider ways to work around this, so you and your loved ones can share this experience together.
Dietary Considerations
Not everyone eats and drinks the same things. Traditional menus for weddings are shifting. To prevent headaches, allergies, or difficulties with dietary restrictions, find out what works for everyone who is attending. A little investigation can prevent difficulties.
Mobility Considerations
Not everyone who is attending is in the same shape. If you’re holding your event on a mountaintop—some people may need help with the hike. If you’re at the beach, some people may need sun or wind protection. By considering the mobility needs of your guests, you can prepare for everyone to be at ease.
California Coastal Color
Having a beach or coastal wedding is at the top of the list for many couples. And there’s no place like the California coast to achieve your dreams.
Among the most colorful places to contemplate getting married is Capitola-By-the-Sea. This colorful beach town is just outside of Santa Cruz and is a popular destination.
Taking a drive is one of the best ways to find your special spot. As you cruise along the coast, you’ll find the beach, outlook, or vista that is perfect for your wedding.
Photo by Jonathan Borba