When you host your wedding or special event on the coast of New Hampshire, Massachusetts, or Maine, the smell of the salty air will be intoxicating for you and your guests. 

But there are plenty of other small touches you can add to take your venue (and your wedding day) to the next level.

Here are 10 special touches for a New England wedding on the seacoast.

1. Begin with the right design

You start sharing your wedding designs with your guests with the very first save the date or invitation you send out, so here’s your opportunity to start infusing a seaside vibe right away. From coastal chic to nautical Nantucket, stationary is a perfect detail for setting your New England wedding stage.

2. Start the week (or weekend) off right

Depending on the season, take your guests who are in town on a quintessential New England outing. Whether it’s apple picking in the fall, whale watching in the summer, or hitting the slopes in the winter, your guests will love getting the full New England experience.

3. Location, location, location

Wedding venues are all about the right location, so consider how you can bring the magic of the seaside into your venue. How about being right next to the ocean?! If you find the perfect oceanside venue, simply rent a tent and you’ll bring the majesty of the sea (complete with crashing waves) to your big day.

4. Offer local cuisine

Who doesn’t love fresh seafood right from the same sea where you’re hosting your big day?! From lobster to shrimp to oysters, your guests will love a fresh caught menu.

5. Don’t forget local drinks

New England is also well known for its local breweries and distilleries, so try showcasing a local beer or two for your guests at the bar.

6. Nod to the nautical

You don’t have to go full-blown blue and white stripes in order to showcase a nautical feel. Subtle shiplap in your venue, pops of blue and white flowers, and modern seaworthy details will bring the ocean into your venue.

7. Leave guests a New England treat

From blueberry-infused sweets to whoopie pies, there are plenty of delicious desserts that are near and dear to New England. Consider setting up a sweets table instead of having the traditional cake.

8. Give a seaworthy gift

Candles with your customized couple logo complete with an anchor, blue shell-covered koozies, or a special seafood spice blend in a custom drawstring bag all scream New England seaside. Get creative with your favors to keep your special day in your guests’ minds for years to come!

Your seaside New England wedding is already going to be the most spectacular day; why not make it even more special with these 10 tips?

And for help with New England event rentals, give us a call at Sperry Tents Seacoast!