We’ve all seen photo and video footage of underwater weddings – some of them quite fabulous! If you’re interested in getting married underwater, you’re far from alone; the trend is taking off around the planet, with several companies actually specializing in ensuring that your special day is truly as perfect as it can be. Here are some pointers on taking the plunge in more ways than one.
Underwater Weddings: The Basics
Underwater weddings aren’t just for experts. Not too long ago, weddings that took place beneath the waves were usually reserved for avid scuba divers. Today, some resorts have the ability to marry even the newest divers underwater. No matter what your skill level it is possible to find a venue that will suit your needs – particularly if you like the idea of going to the Caribbean or Cozumel for your wedding.
While it’s common for brides and grooms to wear wetsuits or shorties to get married underwater, it’s increasingly popular for participants to dress up in formalwear for their underwater weddings. Choose inexpensive dresses and tuxedos if you do this – salt water and sand is hard on delicate fabrics and restoration may be difficult, if not impossible. Colored neckties, pocket squares, and cummerbunds may bleed onto white fabric, and they won’t show up well in photos, so keep things basic and you’ll look your best.
What about wedding parties and guests? Needless to say, you won’t be able to share your “I do’s” with a huge group of bridesmaids, groomsmen, and hundreds of guests in the same way you could at a topside venue, but as long as those who want to attend your wedding are certified divers and as long as they can travel to your chosen venue, it’s feasible to have a large underwater wedding ceremony. Some of the largest scuba weddings on record have included more than 250 guests! Family members and others who were not able to attend the ceremony can witness the vows later – so long as you have someone film it. Most resorts that offer underwater wedding ceremonies also offer professional photography and filming, so your memories will be picture-perfect.
There are a couple of ways to exchange your “I do’s” when being married underwater. In some places, signs are used, and in others, the bride, groom, and celebrant wear full-face masks so that they can hear one another speaking. Be sure to ask about communication methods when you’re researching wedding venues.
If you belong to a religion that requires marriage within a designated sacred space such as a church or temple, consider holding two weddings – the first one at the religious venue, and the second one underwater. Have two receptions, or just have one large beach party after your underwater wedding. No matter what your beliefs, you can always share vows more than once, strengthening your bond and having plenty of fun while you are at it.
Last but not least, consider taking advantage of a complete resort wedding package that includes accommodations, fun diving for everyone, champagne, dinners, and more. Resorts that specialize in underwater weddings have plenty of experience in creating the perfect atmosphere for a fun, festive celebration of your commitment to one another.