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About Weddings in Vacation Homes
BY CHERYL MARKHAM,
PICTURE PERFECT EVENTS
There are so many wedding and reception locations along the Grand Strand. One of the more popular venues is private beach homes. Some brides looking for a beach house drive along Ocean Drive and try to spot one they might like while others get online and scope them out. You may find the house of your dreams either way. The best advice though is to check with the major vacation rental businesses along the Strand and ask about specific homes that allow weddings and receptions. Here are some tips for making it a great experience.
IT NEVER HURTS TO ASK. Most Grand Strand rental companies have a "no house party" policy. However, if you have a specific home in mind, ask the rental company for specific permission from the homeowner. Explain why you want the house and what measures you will take to ensure the safety of everyone and the contents of the house. Offer to pay an extra security deposit if needed if you really want a particular location.
CHOOSE DATES OUT OF HIGH SEASON. A good rule of thumb for getting the house you want at a better price is to choose a date that is not in the middle of the busy vacation season. For Myrtle Beach those dates are May 15 through Labor Day. All rental terms during the high season are one week. If you plan your wedding prior to May 15 or after Labor Day, chances for a weekend of shorter rental term without the added the expense of extra days are greater. Be open and flexible to moving the date for these reasons.
IT MAY BE MORE EXPENSIVE THAN YOU THINK. Keep in mind that a beach home wedding and reception involves extra expense. You may have to rent chairs, tables, linens, dishes, dance floor, tent, extra lighting and more. Your caterer may charge an additional fee to cover the extra work involved in set up and break down of food and beverage at a beach home.
LOOK FOR THE LITTLE DETAILS. Does the home have a large landscaped area or easy access to the beach for the ceremony? Is there a perfect setting for the cake? Will the home accommodate your guests in the event of inclement weather? Is the kitchen removed from the main traffic areas so the caterer can work without being seen? Do the floorplan and furnishings provide flexibility for arrangement? Is there room for a dance floor?
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