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Planning a wedding in the diverse coastal city of San Diego is a thrilling journey filled with endless possibilities. From beachfront options to historic venues, San Diego offers a multitude of stunning backdrops for your special day.
As you dive into wedding planning, though, it’s important to note common mistakes that can quickly derail your plans.
As an experienced wedding planner at BRICK and 828 Planning, Lindsay has seen it all. Here are the biggest mistakes couples can make for their San Diego wedding:
1. Ignoring Beach Permit Requirements
San Diego’s stunning beaches are a popular choice for weddings, but couples often overlook the permit requirements for hosting ceremonies or receptions on public beaches. Failure to obtain the necessary permits can result in fines or even having your event shut down by authorities. It’s essential to research and obtain the required permits well in advance to ensure a legal beach wedding experience.
2. Ignoring Marine Layer and Weather Changes
San Diego is known for its mild and temperate climate, but couples may overlook the marine layer, especially along the coast. The marine layer can lead to foggy conditions, cooler temperatures, and even mist or drizzle, particularly in the mornings. Couples planning outdoor ceremonies or receptions on the coast should be prepared for potential weather changes and have backup plans in place, such as tent rentals or an indoor venue.
3. Not Factoring in Tourism
During peak tourist season, several factors in San Diego such as traffic congestion and accommodation availability can cause problems for wedding guests traveling into the city. Couples may overlook these details, leading to guests paying peak prices for hotels, or missing important parts of the celebration. It’s essential to consider the time of year (and day) when scheduling wedding events and provide guests with ample travel time or alternative accommodation options.
4. Underestimating Venue Availability During Peak Seasons
San Diego is a popular destination for weddings year-round, but certain times of the year, such as Summer and early Fall, are particularly busy with weddings and events. Couples may not realize the demand for popular venues during peak seasons, and be surprised with higher prices and/or limited availability. 828 Planner Lindsay recommends booking your venue well in advance, especially if you have a specific date or location in mind.
5. Overlooking Sunset Timing for Outdoor Ceremonies
San Diego is renowned for its breathtaking sunsets, however, couples may overlook the timing of this phenomenon on their wedding day. This can lead to issues with lighting and photography. It’s essential to consider the sunset time on your wedding day and schedule your ceremony accordingly to take advantage of the golden hour for stunning photos and a romantic atmosphere. Consult with your photographer and planner to ensure that your timeline aligns with the sunset.
Avoid these and other wedding planning mistakes by enlisting the help of wedding professionals like those at 828 Planning. Contact our dedicated planners to ensure your day is everything you’ve dreamt about.
