Anchored in Love: Ocean Springs Couple Ties Knot

Congratulations to Brandon and Doug, who recently wedded in Ocean Springs, MS. The two opted to exchange vows while sailing into the sunset, which I must say, sounds heavenly! 

Getting married on a sailboat definitely achieves that “intimate” feel some couples shoot for on their special day. This intimate feel also further achieves the feeling of romance, which is a crucial element to any wedding. The other perk – “serenity.”

​I don’t know too many people who take sunset cruises to seek dramatic encounters, expel some hostile energy or ponder life’s challenges. Many folks take these cruises to escape the hustle and bustle of hectic realities, to unwind, relax and find peace. Because of all the stress that comes with wedding planning, I think a sunset cruise would bring such a calmness to couples anxious and nervous to tie the knot.

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After their nuptials, Brandon and Doug debarked their vessel to continue their celebration on a waterfront point in Ocean Springs. They decorated a former home foundation, which previously boasted a waterfront (I’m sure which had a spectacular view) with beautiful string round bulb lights and bows. Thankfully the weather was PERFECT for this couple’s special day, just as perfect as their decorated reception site.

So after seeing the beauty of this nautical-themed wedding and oceanfront reception, I decided to pull together something helpful for the brides considering setting sail for THEIR special day.

Top 5 Reasons Going “Nautical” is a FANTASTIC Wedding Idea

​1. EASY THEME
Forget the headache of deciding which colors, which décor, which signs, which party favors, which theme! When options are limited, the choices become easier. Keep in mind, just because you narrow down your theme to “nautical,” doesn’t mean the options are limited. There is SO many creative things to do to achieve that perfect nautical wedding. 

2. BEAUTIFUL PHOTOS
Assuming the weather is cooperative, nautical wedding photos tend to look AMAZING in a photo album. This is also assuming you cover all your bases and have spent time on all the details (which is super important btw)

3. RELAX & CAUSUAL
As I mentioned before, wedding planning is stressful enough, but it when comes to your actual wedding day, you want to be relaxed. Since “water” tends to bring relaxing effects, this is a great option to feel ready and less tense on your special day.

4. SEASIDE APPETIZERS
Thrill your guests with a shrimp cocktail tower or if you’re splurging, perhaps oyster hour devours! 

5. IT’S UNIQUE
If the traditional church wedding is not tooting any of your horns, think outside the box and go nautical! More and more brides are opting for weddings that are different, unique and are special and memorable. ​

So, now that I have convinced you to get "nauti" for your wedding, keep in mind these important elements when planning to ride the waves for your nuptials

Top 5 Things to Plan For When "Setting Sail" for Your Wedding Ceremony

1. TIME
Weather is so important when being on the seas. Last thing you want is for your passengers to run below deck to stay warm and miss your ceremony! Plan to set sail in warmer climates, late spring-late summer, maybe early fall if you live in the south. 

2. SOUND SYSTEM
Want music? Be aware of crashing waves - they can put a damper on a weak sound system when out on the open water. Come prepared with the right sound equipment if celebratory tunes are on your list of ceremony "must-haves"

3. NUMBER OF PASSENGERS
Consider how many guests will be able to be present for your "sailboat" ceremony. You will probably have to limit this particular guest list, at least for the ceremony. If you plan to have a reception afterward on shore, then by all means, max out that guest list! Just beware of your "sailing" ceremony guest limit. 

4. DID SOMEONE SAY "SEA SICKNESS?"
Augh. Worst case scenario just happened. Aunt Bea is escaping the 'I Do's" to stare into the water (if you know what I mean). Consider your guests and their potential inabilities to withstand a short cruise. You may want to provide a few sea sickness bracelets or even Dramamine for those desperately longing to witness your vow exchanges on the open water, but who may have a difficult time doing so. 

5. LASTLY - THE HEAD!
By head, I mean the bathroom, the John, the restroom, the porcelain throne, the oval office! It's a must have for any occasion. Ensure your vessel is equipped with a facility which caters to both men and women. Last thing you want is a guest stopping your ceremony because they just "gotta go, gotta go, gotta go right now." And if you're ship lacks a facility, have no fear. Just be sure to have a speedy ceremony, so you can hustle back ashore. Then, of course, have a Jazzy Johnz restroom trailer readily available, so you and your guests can feel right at home, and still happy and pleased you went "nauti" for your wedding day! ;)

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Congrats again to Brandon and Doug! Thank you for trusting Jazzy Johnz to help make your special day a success. We wish you both much success! 

​Photography Credit: Ann Madden Photography