(married) life’s a
Thanks to its 400 miles of shoreline, the Cape essentially has a built-in wedding theme. “We’re such a
destination location that most couples are looking for the Cape Cod quintessential look — classic, cozy,
coastal,” says Bohlin. “A lot of times, you’re at these beautiful waterfront venues and couples will realize they
can let the setting and the scenery speak for itself.” Some prime examples of such coastal elegance include the
Wequassett Resort and Golf Club in Harwich, Wychmere Beach Club in Harwich Port, Chatham Bars Inn
in Chatham and Ocean Edge Resort and Golf Club in Brewster.
However, if your ceremony plans involve less roof over your head and more sand between your toes,
keep these beach wedding tips in mind:
1. Look into potential permit requirements and usage fees — some sandy shores in and around
the Cape require them, others don’t.
2. Check for restrictions, like whether everything needs to be wrapped up before dusk.
3. Be aware of tide times to avoid wedding (wave) crashers.
4. Learn when the sun will set on your wedding day for optimal portrait taking.
5. Most importantly, have a plan B in the case of less optimal weather.
However, if you’re interested in a Cape wedding sans the sand and sea, there’s plenty of other options.
“Just because it’s Cape Cod, it doesn't mean you have to have a beach wedding. It isn’t all on the water,” says
Bohlin. “The Cape has some really cool barn venues, beautiful art museums and historic inns.” For instance,
West Falmouth’s Bourne Farm lends itself to country chic as does Mashpee’s Willowbend (it even overlooks
a cranberry bog!), while the Cape Cod Museum of Art in Dennis is perfect for more imaginative couples.
Even some of the most well-known waterfront venues are well-suited for non-nautical themes. “At some of
the bigger resorts you can kick it up a notch for that glam feel,” Bohlin adds. “You can bring in over-the-top
florals or specialty linens to create the feel of a New York City or Boston-type wedding.”
FROM THE TOP: Wequassett Resort and Golf Club, The Ewings Photography; Wychmere Beach Club, Seagrass Floral Studio, Melissa Robotti Photography; Chatham Bars Inn, Lisa George Beauty, Kelly Dillon Photography.
ENGAGED IN SOUTHERN NEW ENGLAND 2020 | 83