Top 5 Tips for Planning a Tofino Beach Wedding
When the vision for your destination wedding is beachfront and intimate, imagine saying ‘I do’ on spectacular Cox Bay in Tofino, steps from your beachfront suite. From breathtaking views and crashing waves, to the intoxicating smell of the Pacific, it’s as romantic as it is unforgettable.
Beaches, weddings and love are converging at the upcoming Tofino Wedding Fair – January 23, 2016.
Register now, then stay with us and experience the possibilities with our Tofino Wedding Fair Special, including a luxury One Bedroom Beach House. Long beach walks and a soaker-tub for two could make for a fun weekend of wedding planning, don’t you think?
To help you get started, here are some top tips for planning a Tofino beach wedding:
1. Dress beach-friendly
While ocean breezes are one of the best parts of a beach wedding, it’s an important factor when choosing your wedding ensemble, starting with your dress. To avoid wardrobe malfunctions, think lightweight chiffon that moves in the wind vs. full dresses with long trains. When it comes to your hair, a classic up-do will ensure it doesn’t take centre-stage in photos. And just like veils and wind don’t always mix, neither do heels and sand – think flat-sole sandals, wedges or better yet, go barefoot. (Of course, seasonal rubber boot weddings are all the rage here!) For the guys, informal vs. a tux is always an option.
2. Prepare your guests
For all the reasons above, remind your guests that Mother Nature is unpredictable in Tofino. A fun idea might be to arrange welcome bags for your guests to use during your ceremony, including travel-sized sunscreen, bottled water, fun sunglasses, or if need be, hand warmers and umbrellas. For spring/fall nuptials, provide a basket of lap blankets or pashminas, and for summer, suggest your guests bring along flip-flops. Set-up a shoe station in front of the beach for them to change footwear, then after your ceremony, provide a tub of water with towels for a quick rinse and switch. Voila!
3. Keep décor simple & sturdy
With breathtaking Cox Bay as your backdrop, it’s easy to keep your wedding ceremony décor simple and natural. No need for fussy arches and flowers, but do choose vibrant colours that contrast against the sand. In fact, use what’s on the beach to the set the scene, like arranging logs for seating or gathering sand dollars to mark the aisle. And ensure any décor you bring to set the scene is anchored and windproof, such as hurricane-style lanterns for candles at your sunset ceremony.
4. Be heard
Depending on seasons and tides, there are sheltered coves in Cox Bay, however it can still be tough to compete with the sound of the surf. To ensure your vows are heard, speak up and/or consider wireless microphones and an audio system.
5. Hire local
For seamless organization and ease, use local Tofino vendors for the all-important extras on your special day. Pacific Sands has teamed up with the wedding experts from Rare Earth Wedding Event Productions and RedCan Gourmet catering. For a complete list of local wedding professionals, including florists, photographers/videographers and more, visit TourismTofino.com.
With suites and homes from 520 to 2,400 square feet – all featuring full-kitchens, cozy fireplaces, and panoramic beach views – Pacific Sands is ideal for intimate weddings for 40 people, including our seaside Gazebo for catered wedding celebrations.
For larger events, enjoy the best of both worlds! Choose from a spectacular variety of off-site venues in and around Tofino, while still enjoying our beachfront accommodations.
Questions? Email or call our Wedding Coordinator, Jasmin San Diego at 250.725.3322.
