Beach weddings are a fabulous idea and more and more couples are opting to marry somewhere in the Caribbean, Mexico or Hawaii. Here is a guide for the best beach wedding ever.

Location: Think about booking a private beach. This allows you time for your wedding and your reception - so you and your guests can dance into the night under the stars. If you can't find a private beach have a public beach party. In general, you're going to find that only a small portion of your family and friends can make the trip, so why not invite a few new-friends in the way of other hotel guests and well-wishers?

Invites: Send the invites in old glass bottles for that message-in-a-bottle feel. Or for an easier and less expensive alternative, find stationary with sand dollar or tropical floral designs.

Decor: Make Three heart designs in the sand using shells, pebbles or drift wood. One for the bride and groom, one for the officiant and one for the guests. Or, Write the vows in the sand for all to see. Watch the designs fade with your guests as the tide comes in!

Flowers: Wear Hawaiian-style lei flowers instead of a bouquet or carry a shell encrusted candle. Want to stay traditional? A local florist can also together bouquets with shells attached to them.

Bridal Attire: If you're willing to go all the way, wear a grass skirt with a bikini and Hawaiian garland. A floral dress or a sarong and bikini is equally "beachy". Look for shell jewelry (or pearls)! Go barefoot.

Groom's Attire: Floral shirt and Bermuda shorts with a Hawaiian garland round his neck. Or he could do a David Beckham and wear a sarong and vest top. Barefoot or sandals.

Catering: White and milk chocolate shell decorations make for a beautiful beach-themed cake. Plain sponge cake is light and luscious in the beach humidity. Consider a seafood spread - prawns, lobster and other seaside favorite. A lot of caterers (especially abroad) will be able to make exotic sea food dishes, like a delicious local ceviche recipe.

Favors: For a destination wedding, it's not uncommon (and thoughtful) to give guests their favors upon arrival. A goodie bag containing sunglasses, sunscreen and flip-flops will be just what any beach-tripper needs.