Our top tips for planning a dream boho beach wedding in the UK

January 5, 2025

OUR TOP TIPS FOR PLANNING A DREAM BOHO BEACH WEDDING IN THE UK

Beach weddings are one of the favourites among our brides who love the outdoors and nature, and not the least because beaches are the perfect setting for an effortless and relaxed boho-style wedding. A beach offers a breathtaking, unique backdrop for your wedding day, and the UK has some of the most picturesque coastlines to make your dream beach wedding come true. However, planning a beach wedding comes with its own set of challenges and considerations. Here’s your essential guide to planning the perfect beach wedding in the UK.

The beach and venue

Like with any other wedding, the first step in planning a boho beach wedding is selecting the ideal location. The UK has a vast coastline, and from the rugged shores of Scotland to the softer sands of Cornwall, there’s a right beach for every couple’s wedding. For some inspiration, see Indie Bride Kat’s boho beach wedding in Dorset.

Our favourite UK beach wedding venues

Bride’s boho beach wedding look

The dress

For a beach wedding with a bohemian vibe, we would suggest making sure your dress is practical at the venue and beach. Consider free-spirited, natural style with flowing fabrics, lace, and soft silhouettes. The dress should allow you to comfortably walk down the sandy aisle. Look for lightweight dresses made from natural materials like silk chiffon and cotton crepe that allow for movement in the sea breeze. Natural materials will keep you warm if it’s a windy day and cool if it’s a warm day.

Our suggestions for the perfect boho beach wedding dress: Dominika, Fiona, Lumi, Bailey, Clementine, Pixie, Po p py and Wylie.

Shoes and accessories

Many boho brides choose to go barefoot at least during the ceremony. You could also choose decorative sandals with beads, lace, or jewels for an ethereal touch. If you’d like to wear shoes with heels, consider wedges to make it easier to walk down the aisle on the beach. For accessories, think about a dried flower crown or a simple headband made of vines or flowers.

Hair and makeup

With the wind and sea air, it’s important to choose a hairstyle that can withstand the elements. Go for soft, tousled beach waves, a loose braid, or an updo that holds up well in the wind. Ask your hair and makeup artist to use products that are more resistant to humidity or wind.

Groom’s boho beach wedding look

Outfit

The groom can also opt for a relaxed style. A boho beach wedding outfit for the groom can range from casual to semi-formal, depending on the couple's chosen style. Lightweight, breathable fabrics like linen or cotton are ideal to keep comfortable in the coastal breeze. A well-fitted linen suit or a smart but relaxed shirt and trousers can work perfectly for a beach setting. For a more bohemian feel, you might go for suspenders or a vest.

Footwear and accessories

The groom can also go barefoot or wear sandals or espadrilles to keep things comfortable and casual. A simple leather belt, wooden buttons, and a dried wildflower or a simple greenery boutonniere all add a boho vibe.

The food

Here are a few catering ideas to compliment the informal and intimate setting that your boho beach wedding is all about:

Barbeque or picnic style: Think about serving food in a casual, family-style setting. A barbeque with fresh seafood, grilled vegetables, and meats can bring a rustic, beachy feel. Alternatively, a picnic spread with fresh salads, cheeses, bread, and dips can be laid out for guests to help themselves.
Street Food: Food trucks or mobile catering vans can serve up unique dishes like wood-fired pizza, paella, tacos, or fresh seafood for a laid-back, fun experience.
Grazing table: Grazing tables have become a popular choice, offering a unique, interactive, and visually stunning way to serve food.
Dessert: A naked cake decorated with fresh flowers or tropical fruits fits perfectly with the boho aesthetic. If you want to offer something a bit more untraditional, consider a boho-inspired dessert table featuring cupcakes, macarons, and a variety of pastries.

Ceremony

Whether your ceremony takes place on the beach or you’re forced indoors due to unpredictable weather, you can still create a stunning and memorable setting. A wedding arch serves as a beautiful backdrop for your ceremony. For a beach ceremony, make it simple so that it doesn’t overpower and cover the gorgeous sea view. A wooden frame with some flowing fabrics or pampas grass will do. You could line the aisle with seashells, driftwood, or lanterns to create a beautiful pathway and even scatter flower petals on the sand for a romantic touch.

To incorporate a meaningful beach-inspired element, consider a sand ceremony. This is a beautiful, symbolic gesture where the bride and groom pour different coloured sand into a glass jar to represent their unity. You can make it even more special by using sand from the beach where you’re marrying or a location that holds personal significance, such as where you got engaged. Bring in a live band, musician, or even a harpist to play soft acoustic tunes during your ceremony to complement the sounds of the waves hitting the beach.

Reception decor

The reception is where you can truly let your boho spirit shine. Set up relaxed sitting areas with leather pouffes, cushions, rugs, and lanterns to create a whimsical yet comfortable atmosphere. Choose soft, neutral colours, such as off-whites, blush tones, and sandy neutrals, that complement the surroundings and the boho vibe.

Wooden details: Use wooden tables and chairs or even rustic wooden crates for serving and decoration.
Natural elements: Embrace natural elements like wood, dried flowers, sand, and pampas grass throughout the decor.
Shade: A beach wedding can be sunny and warm, so it’s a good idea to arrange for some shade for your guests. Consider parasols or a tent for guests to seek refuge from the sun.
Florals: Incorporate plants, florals, and greenery throughout the decor. Succulents and wildflowers work wonderfully for a boho beach vibe.
Signage: Use wooden or driftwood signs to guide guests to the ceremony or reception area. Personalised signs can add a fun, nautical vibe to your beach wedding.

beach wedding bride and groom in a campervan

Entertainment

As bohemian weddings are naturally relaxed, entertainment supporting that laid-back vibe is important. Hire an acoustic band or musician who can play folk or indie music for a romantic atmosphere. Consider adding interactive elements, such as a DIY flower crown station, a henna tattoo artist, or a photo booth with boho props like dreamcatchers and floral garlands. We recommend Vintage Camper Booths.

After the ceremony, drinks, and meal, when the night starts to fall, invite guests to dance to a DJ playing your favourite rock hits from the 60’s, 70’s, 80’s and 90’s. Imagine setting up a bonfire on the beach and dancing the night away.

Invitations and favours

Wedding invitations set the tone for your wedding, so go for earthy tones, bohemian patterns, and designs that reflect the natural beach surroundings. Use watercolour florals and greenery as part of your invitation design. A hand-drawn, artistic touch can also capture the whimsical and free-spirited vibe of the boho beach wedding. Beautiful calligraphy will finalise your boho wedding invitations. Since boho weddings are often nature-conscious, consider eco-friendly invitations made from recycled paper, seeded paper (that guests can plant afterward), or digital invites to reduce waste.

Wedding favours are a great way to thank your guests while tying into the boho theme. Make it meaningful and something useful instead of a trinket that will end up in the rubbish bin after a while. Handcrafted gifts such as small jars of local honey, mini potted plants, or scented candles make great boho-inspired favours. Personalise them with a thank-you note tied with twine for an extra touch.

beach wedding tablescape and bride and groom

Other considerations

Plan B: The UK’s weather can be unpredictable, even in the summer. It's essential to have a backup plan in case of rain or strong winds, especially if you’re planning an outdoor ceremony. Make sure that the venue has an inside area for the ceremony and reception if needed, or rent a marquee, tent, or beach hut to ensure you’re covered in case of bad weather.
Be prepared: Advise your guests to wear something practical and to be prepared for both rain and wind and hot weather and sunshine.
Accessibility: At some venues, getting to the beach may require a short walk, so make sure your guests can comfortably get to the location.
Photography: The beach setting offers stunning, natural light for photography. Hire a photographer who knows how to work with natural light and scenic backdrops to ensure your photos capture the magic of the day and the stunning venue you have booked. Ask for pictures at golden hour, just before sunset, when the lighting is soft and romantic.

With careful attention to detail, a little bit of flexibility with the weather, and a relaxed approach, you can create the perfect seaside celebration. With the perfect location, a laid-back dress code, natural decor, and delicious food, your boho beach wedding will be an unforgettable experience for both you and your guests. Embrace the beauty of nature, the charm of bohemian style, and the carefree spirit of the beach for a wedding that feels both intimate and magical.