Beach Weddings

Momentous occasions are always made more special by memorable locations—and the Crystal Coast is just that. Brides from around the country come here to tie the knot with the beach as their chapel and the seagulls as their witnesses. Beach weddings have become increasingly popular and can range from flip-flop casual to train-and-veil formal.

Here are our top five reasons to have your celebration in the Crystal Coast, whether it is a wedding, reunion or anniversary:

1. Location, Location, Location
The beauty of the region is the ultimate backdrop for any special event. Plus, your guests will be tempted to stay awhile to enjoy the beaches, laid-back atmosphere and numerous recreational activities.

2. Beautiful Photographs
What better background is there than the ocean or sound to make your event photos unforgettable? There is nothing comparable to the beauty of the orange glow of the sun setting or the blue sky and ocean as your bridal backdrop.

3. Great Food
Thanks to the ample water and wonderful restaurants in this area, many unique options exist for fabulous cuisine. Try fresh seafood, ethnic varieties or traditional Southern fare.

4. Attractions for the Whole Family
Don’t worry about your guests making the trip for your special occasion. They will be thrilled to spend some time here at the Crystal Coast, where entertainment and recreation options are countless.

5. Variety
Whether your idea of the perfect reception is a beach barbecue or a gourmet, five-course, seated meal, you’ll find an area caterer, event planner, restaurant or reception site fit for you. The Crystal Coast offers a wide variety of beachfront hotels, rental properties and B&Bs as well, so you won’t be lacking for choice.

Spas

If you’re primping for your wedding or simply taking a relaxing afternoon off, your vacation is the perfect time to pamper yourself. Try a moisturizing skin treatment to hydrate your skin after long hours in the sun or get a spa pedicure for sandal-ready feet. Massages are proven to help relieve stress and clear the mind—definitely vacation musts!

Visit the luxurious Ocean Club Spa in Indian Beach for a hydrotherapy bath, a natural face lifting treatment or a toning seaweed wrap that will have your body beach-ready in no time! Try Oasis Day Spa in Morehead City for a salt or sugar scrub that will make your skin glow or a sometimes-necessary sunburn relief wrap that will cool you right off. The options are endless!

Whatever the treatment, your body will thank you. And you’ll be even more ready to enjoy your time in the sun.

Tips Towards A Beautiful Vacation

• Get a spray tan at a local spa here in the Crystal Coast or try one of the many self-tanning lotions on the market. However you fake it, the all-over bronzed look may keep you from spending too many hours in the sun trying to achieve just that. It’s also a healthier option for those beach-goers who tend to “forget” their sunscreen.

• Use a waterproof sun block with an SPF of at least 15.

• Apply sunscreen at least 20 minutes before going outside. Pay special attention to the nose, ears, shoulders, tops of the feet and collarbone. Reapply often, especially when you come out of the water.

• Always wear UV protective sunglasses—protect your eyes from the sun and keep yourself from squinting, which may cause deeper wrinkles if done excessively.

• Don a chic straw hat or baseball cap when soaking up the sun. Head-coverings add one more layer of protection from harmful UV rays and also help you keep cool.

• Minimize your time on the beach to a healthy length. If you notice you or others in your group getting burnt, move the party inside. Pop in a movie or start making dinner early and get out of the sun for a while!