Above The Bay

Expert tips for couples dreaming of a coastal celebration

There’s something irresistibly romantic about sea view, coastal wedding. The beautiful horizon, the scent of salt in the air, the sound of waves, nature has a way of framing those once-in-a-lifetime moments with a calm, effortless beauty. But while coastal weddings may feel relaxed and spontaneous, thoughtful planning is key to ensuring they unfold with ease and intention.

As a wedding planner who specialises in destination and coastal weddings, I’ve helped couples bring their ocean-view ceremonies to life, from clifftop elopements to full weekend gatherings with sea breezes and champagne toasts. Here’s what I always recommend when planning your own sea view celebration.

Location, Location (with logistics in mind)

The biggest appeal of a coastal wedding is, of course, the view. But the most memorable weddings go beyond just a pretty backdrop, they feel natural, thoughtful, and comfortable for you and your guests. When choosing a sea view venue, consider:

Legal ceremony options: Is the venue fully licensed for outdoor weddings, or will you need to do the paperwork elsewhere?
Weather backup plans: Look for locations with a seamless indoor alternative that doesn’t sacrifice atmosphere.
Accessibility: Coastal venues can be remote, ask about parking, on-site transport options (like golf buggies), and how accessible the ceremony spot is for older relatives or guests with limited mobility.

Let the Setting Set the Tone

With such a naturally beautiful setting, you don’t want to over-style your ceremony. Let the sea and sky do the heavy lifting and choose details that complement the coast rather than compete with it.

Choose organic textures, soft fabrics that move with the breeze, and a colour palette that reflects your surroundings, seafoam blues, greys, soft sand, or soft floral tones. Your floral design can lean into native or seasonal blooms for a more rooted, effortless feel.

Timing is Everything

Lighting changes everything in outdoor weddings. For the most flattering glow (and the least squinting in photos), consider a late afternoon ceremony, ideally two hours before sunset. Not only does the light become warmer and more romantic, but it also gives guests a full afternoon to settle in, enjoy a drink, and savour the view.

Embrace the Elements

A sea breeze is part of the charm, so work with it, not against it. For hair and makeup, opt for soft styles that can shift with the wind. For décor, choose sturdy signage and weighted bases for anything freestanding. Always have a few cosy layers or blankets on hand for evening chill.

Create a Celebration That Flows

With outdoor weddings, movement matters. How will guests transition from ceremony to drinks to dinner? Are there clear signs? Can older guests navigate the space comfortably and safely? The most seamless coastal weddings are those where nothing feels rushed or uncertain, just a smooth unfolding of meaningful moments.

Considering a Coastal Wedding in Cornwall?

If you're dreaming of a Sea View Wedding or Coastal Wedding in Cornwall, Above the Bay offers one of the most breathtaking licensed outdoor ceremony spaces on the coast.

Imagine saying your vows with the ocean stretched out behind you and legally signing all the paperwork without ever stepping inside. That’s right: Above the Bay is fully licensed for legal outdoor ceremonies, meaning your entire wedding, from “I do” to signatures, can take place outside in the open air.

No need for a dark back room or a registry office visit, your legal ceremony is as beautiful as the rest of your day.

And if the Cornish skies decide not to cooperate? There’s no compromise on your view. Above the Bay offers the perfect indoor back-up space for your ceremony, still with uninterrupted ocean views, so even if you need to move indoors, your setting remains just as stunning and atmospheric.

What makes weddings at Above the Bay special?

Fully licensed for legal outdoor weddings, no need for a separate ceremony
Panoramic sea views over Falmouth’s coastline, inside or out
Indoor ceremony room with sea views as a stylish weather backup
Reserved parking for up to 8 cars for close family
Golf buggy transport available to help guests reach the ceremony space with ease
A calm, thoughtful setting with onsite catering, indoor options, and a team who truly care
You can say your vows and sign the register under the open sky and our beautiful pagoda – it’s all official, all in one go, and all with that glorious coastal backdrop.

Whether you’re planning an intimate elopement or a relaxed celebration with family and friends, Above the Bay offers a coastal setting that feels personal, picturesque, and intentionally designed for meaningful moments.

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