A lot of wedding ceremonies we attend take place just after lunchtime and festivities continue into the evening. Some will be outside under a canopy or on a beach but many are held inside a church or a venue, and the reception then moves on to an inside location too. But how about a sunset wedding outside that is sultry, serene and super chic? A wedding that falls at sunset will blanket your big day in a soft, romantic glow and makes for a very elegant affair. Here are some super tips on how to plan a stunning sunset wedding.
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Photographer: Jason+Gina Wedding Photographers | Real Wedding Feature

Timing Is Everything A sunset wedding is a wonderful idea especially if you are having a huge wedding rehearsal dinner the night before. It means you can have a big pre-party and get a lie in on your big day! You�ll also have more time to get ready and prepare. And more time to spend with your bridesmaids and mum before you say I do. It adds a whole new dimension to your wedding day. You�ll want to make sure you choose a location that is renowned for its sunshine and sunsets. And remember that timing is crucial for a sunset wedding. No matter how much candlelight you have arranged, you don�t want to be saying your vows in the dark! Organize your ceremony so that it begins about an hour and a half before sunset. You can find out the times the sunset using this sunset wedding calculator. Giving yourselves an hour and a half before the sun actually sets allows for the last part of the ceremony to play out just as the sun starts to melt away. This means that as you say your vows, the sun will be setting, and that soft, warm glow will be the perfect light at which to say I Do. It also means that your photographer will have enough time to get those beautiful sunset shots of you and your groom. The wedding guest shots will also look superb against the backdrop of a setting sun. Make sure to choose a wedding photographer that understands the style that you are looking for and can capture the light perfectly. Do your research and check that their portfolio features some exquisite sunset wedding shoots. You�ll want to capture all the beautiful colors of the sun as it goes down. The last of the light is extremely flattering, and you�ll be able to achieve some stunning photographs. Cocktail Party At Dusk A sunset wedding is the perfect excuse for a super chic outdoor evening cocktail party. As the sun melts away and dusk falls, make sure your have organized for lots of oversized lanterns to be lit. And also hang twinkling fairy lights in the surrounding trees if your setting allows. Supply sparklers for all the guest to light. These not only make a great night time treat to light up the sky, but they also create even greater photo opportunities. An outdoor cocktail party lends itself to canap�s and hors d'oeuvres rather than a sit-down meal. Make sure you have about 12 different amuse-bouche rotating throughout the evening. And also include three different food stations for larger meals. These can be anything from fish and chips to oysters and clams and an amazing cheese station to a trendy burger bar. For drinks choose Champagne, wine and one signature cocktail. A nice touch is to choose a wine from the year you met and to name the cocktail after something personal to you both as a couple. And don�t forget the music! For an outdoor cocktail party, a jazz band works well, as does a DJ, or even a live local band that can play your favorite tunes.
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