FREQUENTLY ASKED QUESTIONS
GENERAL BOOKING QUESTIONS
When are the payments due? Do you offer payment plans?
When the contract is signed, to continue holding the date, we require a 50% non-refundable deposit to hold the date. We are able to break the non-refundable deposit into two payments as long as they are paid within 30 days of each other. The final installment will be required 30 days before the wedding. You are welcome to send smaller, partial payments of any amount prior to the specified due date, so in effect creating your own payment plan on your own schedule.
How do we book our ceremony?
The entire booking process is done online. Submit a request to book your wedding through our online form. If available, we will send you a proposal. Once you review our proposal and service agreement, sign the service agreement and pay your deposit. We serve couples on a first come first serve basis and ask you to email us to make sure your date is still available prior to signing your contract and paying your non-refundable deposit.
How far in advance should we book our ceremony?
We suggest booking your ceremony no more than 18 months in advance. Why? Many beaches take reservations up to a year in advance and we want you to get married on your desired day, at your desired beach.
If you are eloping with no guests, you can book your beach wedding a few days before the ceremony depending on the location.
Is our wedding date guaranteed when we book online?
IBW performs weddings on public beaches in Southern California. Booking your wedding with IBW does not automatically reserve your site and or permit (if required). Each site has guest limits and rules which may limit which packages we can perform. Learn about guest limits and our preferred locations here. State Park locations (such as Crystal Cove) require the couple obtain the permit themselves. (Don't worry! We will help you along the way.)
What if we have to cancel?
ALL DEPOSITS ARE NON-REFUNDABLE.
What if it rains?
We will do what we can to be flexible with the date and time of the ceremony, depending on the package and location booked. We also have gorgeous clear umbrellas we can provide if the show must go on! Couples are responsible for finding an alternate location for the ceremony in the event of inclement weather.
What if we have to postpone?
Your deposits will be applied to the new date as long as the new date is within 12 months of the original ceremony date. After the 12 month period, you will need to supply a new deposit and current pricing will apply.
Depending on the beach locations, changing dates may require new reservation and permit fees. These fees are usually non-refundable and there is no guarantee your new date will be available at your desired beach.
LOCATION QUESTIONS
Can we book a ceremony that is not on the beach?
Yes. We will provide services at parks, homes, beach houses and other venues. Contact us if you have a place in mind and we will discuss your options.
Do we choose the location of the ceremony?
Yes! It is your ceremony! The locations you choose may be limited by the type of package you select. Standing ceremonies have few location limits while ceremonies with setups and décor do. Once we establish your desired location, we will look at our options and design the wedding accordingly. If you have a beach in mind visit our locations page to find out which packages can be booked at the various beaches.
PLANNING QUESTIONS
What time do you suggest we start the ceremony?
If you are looking for golden hour photos (weather permitting) we typically suggest beginning the ceremony about an hour before sunset. Find out sunset time for your wedding date here.
What does the planning process look like?
Once you book with IBW you are given access to your planning portal and worksheets. This is where we gather all the information needed to bring your dream beach wedding to life. Our coordinator will provide all the information to the appropriate vendors, so you don’t have to. A few weeks before the wedding, you'll have a phone call with our coordinator to go over the details of your wedding day.
Can we bring our own decorations?
We would love to incorporate small personal items into the décor of your ceremony.
Can we bring a cake or treats for our guests?
Yes. You will be responsible for setting up a table and providing utensils to your guests.
Can you help with our reception?
We are ceremony specialists only. Most of our couples have their reception at a nearby restaurant or venue.
Is the wedding party considered guests?
For the sake of the ceremony, guest count only applies toward seated guests. Therefore, members of your wedding party are not taken into consideration as they typically stand during the ceremony. Additionally, if you have guests that are in strollers or walkers that do not require a seat, you do not need to include them in your guest count.
CEREMONY QUESTIONS
Can we write our own vows?
Absolutely! You will have a chance to discuss vows during your consultation with our officiant.
Do you provide the marriage license?
Generally speaking, no. Couples are required to obtain a marriage license directly from the county clerk’s office. Learn more here. Bring your marriage license with you on your wedding day so our officiant can complete the license making your marriage official.
We do have a few officiants who are also notaries, in which case, they are able to provide your marriage license to qualifying couples for an additional fee payable directly to the notary.
DIY AND BYO QUESTIONS
Can we bring our own vendors?
Absolutely. Please let us know prior to signing your contract so we can make sure you are only paying for the services you need. Once you book with us, services can be canceled but not refunded or credited back. Per our contract you can add services but not remove them once a contract has been signed and a deposit has been paid.
Can we bring our own photographer?
Yes. You must notify us you intend to bring your own photographer before we sign the service agreement. A credit will be applied to your package. Our photographer may still attend and photograph the event for marketing purposes however, you will not obtain any rights to use the photographs we take.
Can we bring our own Wedding Officiant?
Yes. A credit will be applied to your package. You will be responsible to verify the officiants’ credentials and ensure they complete and file your marriage license correctly. IBW coordinators are not responsible for your marriage license in any way.
FLORAL QUESTIONS
Do we get to decide how our flowers will look?
Absolutely. Once you book with IBW you are given access to your planning portal and worksheets. There you will provide your color pallet and inspiration photos. Our talented florist will create a floral arrangement based on your unique style.
Do you offer alternate floral arrangements for LGBTQ+ couples?
At Intimate Beach Wedding, we take pride in celebrating the diversity of love and are delighted to offer alternate floral arrangements for LGBTQ+ couples. Our team understands that every couple is unique and deserves to have their wedding day reflect their own styles and preferences. That's why we have curated a wide range of floral designs that defy traditional norms and embrace individuality. Whether you envision a vibrant and colorful bouquet or a sleek and modern arrangement, our talented florists are committed to bringing your vision to life. Experience a wedding that truly represents you as a couple with our inclusive and personalized floral options.