A Dreamy Topsail Beach Wedding: Is It Possible?

If you're looking for a picturesque location for your wedding, look no further than Topsail Island, North Carolina. With its serene beaches, small-town atmosphere, and majestic backdrop of Carolina blue skies, Topsail Island is a perfect choice for a beach wedding. The island offers 26 miles of pristine coastline, from North Topsail Beach to Surf City to Topsail Beach, providing a unique and unforgettable setting for your special day.

One of the main attractions of Topsail Island for weddings is that none of the three municipalities require a permit for beach weddings. However, if you plan to use amplification equipment, you will need to obtain a permit from the town or police department beforehand. The island also boasts a variety of wedding venues, including oceanfront resorts, historic buildings, and country clubs, ensuring that you can find the perfect spot to exchange your vows.

In addition to its stunning natural scenery and convenient permit regulations, Topsail Island offers a range of professional wedding resources, from photographers and florists to wedding officiants and equipment rentals. Whether you're looking for a small, intimate gathering or a grand celebration, Topsail Island has something to offer for every wedding style and size. So, if you're dreaming of a beach wedding, Topsail Island is definitely worth considering!

Marriage licenses and officiants

Before you say "I do" in North Carolina, you must obtain a marriage license. To do this, both applicants must be 18 or older and provide their Social Security cards and $60 in cash, certified check, or money order. You can apply for a marriage license in any county, but you must return it to that same county for filing after the wedding. In Onslow County, marriage licenses are available at the Onslow County Register of Deeds office in Jacksonville, NC. In Pender County, they are available at the Pender County Register of Deeds office in Burgaw, NC.

Marriage ceremonies in North Carolina can be either religious or civil. A religious ceremony is performed by an ordained minister, while a civil ceremony is conducted by a magistrate. Both types of ceremonies require two witnesses.

• Amazing Love - Wedding Officiant
• Always Faithful Wedding Service
• Reverend Angela Kelley
• Skip Corbett
• Donna Brown
• Paul Wilkins

Wedding planners

Planning a wedding on Topsail Beach, North Carolina, is an attractive option for many couples. The picturesque location, with its blue-green Atlantic waters, white sandy beaches, and tranquil coastal beauty, offers a unique and relaxed setting for a destination wedding.

Beach Weddings

Topsail Island has three main towns: North Topsail Beach, Surf City, and Topsail Beach. The good news is that none of these municipalities require a permit for beach weddings. However, if you plan to use amplification equipment, you will need to obtain a permit from the town or police department a few days in advance. It's important to note that beach access cannot be blocked off or reserved for wedding attendees, and parking should be considered in your planning.

When planning a beach wedding, it is crucial to consider the tide. Check the local tide charts and plan your ceremony as close to low tide as possible to avoid the possibility of your event being dampened by waves. Additionally, due to beach erosion, there may not be enough space on the beach within a few hours of high tide, especially at North Topsail.

• The forecast: Have a contingency plan in case of rain. Ensure there is an indoor space available for your ceremony and reception.
• Wind: You may need to windproof and weigh down your décor.
• Noise: The sound of crashing waves and beachgoers can create a loud environment. Ensure your sound system is set up so that all guests can hear the vows.
• Temperature: Consider providing parasols or shade for your guests, especially if they will be wearing formal attire.
• Crowd: A beach wedding may not offer much privacy, especially during the summer months. Consider an off-season wedding if you prefer a more intimate setting.

Wedding Venues on Topsail Island

If you're looking for a venue beyond the beach, Topsail Island offers a variety of options, including:

• The Historic Assembly Building: This unique venue, listed on the National Register of Historic Places, is located on the soundfront and can accommodate up to 250 people. It offers a catering kitchen, dance floor, serving counters, banquet tables, and chairs.
• St. Regis Resort: The Ocean's Edge Event Center at St. Regis is a full-service luxury resort with beach access, amenities, and stunning views.
• Inlet 790: This oceanfront venue offers catering services for on-site and off-site weddings.
• Surfside Center, Surf City: This oceanfront facility provides 1,800 square feet of indoor space and a 650 square foot patio, offering a smoke-free environment for your wedding.
• North Shore Country Club, Sneads Ferry: Located adjacent to Topsail Island, this venue features a beautiful clubhouse and golf club setting, providing an exquisite backdrop for your event.
• Ocean's Edge Restaurant and Event Center: As the tallest point on Topsail Island, this venue offers unparalleled panoramic views and multiple spaces to accommodate groups of 20 to 300 people.

Topsail Island has a range of professional and experienced wedding planners who can help you manage and orchestrate your special day. Here are some recommended wedding planners in the area:

• A Beautiful Event Floral Design & Wedding Planning (Topsail, NC): They can help you with floral design and overall wedding planning, ensuring your day is perfectly orchestrated.
• Kiss the Bride Wedding Design, Planning & Coordinator (Sneads Ferry, NC): This planner will take charge of the details, allowing you to relax and enjoy your day.
• Event Connection Wedding Planning (Jacksonville, NC): Based in the nearby city of Jacksonville, this planner can assist with all the intricacies of your Topsail Island wedding.
• Knot Too Shabby Events & Wedding Planning (Wilmington, NC): Located in Wilmington, this planner will help you create a wedding that reflects your unique style and vision.

Marriage Licenses and Officiants

Don't forget the legal requirements! In North Carolina, you must obtain a marriage license before the wedding ceremony. Both applicants must be at least 18 years old and provide their Social Security cards. The license costs $60 and is valid for 60 days.

Additionally, you will need an officiant to perform the ceremony. Marriage ceremonies in North Carolina can be either religious, conducted by an ordained minister, or civil, conducted by a magistrate. Both types of ceremonies require two witnesses. Here are some officiants in the Topsail area:

• Amazing Love – Wedding Officiant
• Always Faithful Wedding Service
• Wedding Officiant Reverend Angela Kelley

Accommodations and Rentals

Topsail Island offers a variety of accommodations and rentals to suit your needs, from romantic honeymoon locations to spacious condos for the bridal party. Seashore Realty and Access Realty are great resources for finding the perfect rental properties for your special day.

Additional Vendors

Topsail Island has a wealth of wedding professionals to help with every detail of your day, including photographers, florists, caterers, DJs, and more.

Happy planning, and congratulations on your upcoming wedding!

Wedding venues

Topsail Island, North Carolina, is a picturesque location for a wedding, with its serene beaches and small-town atmosphere, and blue-green Atlantic waters. There are several wedding venues to choose from on the island, each offering something unique. Here are some options to consider:

Beachfront Wedding

Topsail Island's pristine beaches offer the perfect backdrop for a romantic beach wedding. The white sandy beaches and the gentle surf create an atmosphere that is hard to resist. The best part? None of the three towns on the island—North Topsail Beach, Surf City, or Topsail Beach—require a permit for beach weddings. However, if you plan to use amplification equipment, you will need to obtain a permit from the town or police department. Keep in mind that beach access cannot be blocked off for the wedding, and it is essential to plan for parking, especially for larger weddings.

Historic Assembly Building

The Historic Assembly Building is a unique venue located on the soundfront of Topsail Island. Listed on the National Register of Historic Places, this venue can accommodate up to 250 guests and is ideal for wedding ceremonies, receptions, bridal showers, and rehearsal dinners. The building offers a catering kitchen, dance floor, serving counters, banquet tables and chairs, and a handicap ramp. The highlight is the beautiful view of the Topsail Island sunset, making it a perfect choice for a memorable wedding celebration.

Ocean's Edge Restaurant and Event Center

Ocean's Edge, located in North Topsail Beach, offers breathtaking ocean views and a creative layout for your wedding celebrations. With multiple spaces available, they can accommodate groups of 20 to 300 guests. As the tallest point on Topsail Island, Ocean's Edge provides a panoramic view that sets the stage for a dream wedding. Their onsite coordinator will help you with all the details, from linens to a rainy-day plan, ensuring a stress-free experience.

St. Regis Resort

The Ocean's Edge Event Center at St. Regis is another excellent choice for a beach wedding. With beach access, a variety of amenities, and stunning views, it offers the perfect combination of convenience and beauty. Condo units of various sizes are available on-site, making it convenient for the wedding party and guests to stay close to all the festivities.

Inlet 790

Inlet 790 is a beautiful oceanfront venue that offers full-service catering for weddings, both on and off-site. This venue is a wonderful option for couples looking for a scenic location and convenient catering services.

North Shore Country Club

Located in Sneads Ferry, just minutes from Topsail Island, North Shore Country Club provides a gorgeous venue for wedding receptions, rehearsal dinners, or other wedding-related events. The venue features a beautiful clubhouse and golf club setting, offering an exquisite backdrop for your special day. They can accommodate up to 150 guests for receptions and 70 guests for seated parties, and you have the option to choose your own caterer or select from their professional list.

The Belle of Topsail

If you're dreaming of a wedding on the water, The Belle of Topsail is the perfect choice. Captain David Luther, an ordained minister, can perform your ceremony aboard this 55-foot replica of a 19th-century riverboat. With several wedding packages available, The Belle of Topsail can accommodate up to 49 guests for an intimate and unique wedding experience.

These are just a few of the many wonderful wedding venues that Topsail Beach has to offer. Each venue has its own charm and amenities, so be sure to consider your specific needs and preferences when making your decision.

Catering and food

Choosing a Caterer:

Firstly, decide whether you want to hire a caterer or handle the food preparations yourself. If you choose to hire a caterer, Topsail Island offers a variety of catering services that can accommodate different styles, themes, and dietary preferences. Some recommended caterers in the area include:

• Middle of the Island Catering Co.
• Bon Appetit Catering and Event Planning
• Atlantic Coast Catering & Event Planning
• Inlet 790 (offering catering services both on and off-premises)

Menu Options:

When selecting the menu for your wedding, consider the weather conditions and the potential impact on food. Opt for dishes that are suitable for the climate and won't spoil easily. Seafood and coastal cuisine could be a fitting choice for a beach wedding, and there are local restaurants specialising in this type of fare, such as Blackbeard's Waterfront Restaurant and Bar.

Venue Considerations:

The choice of wedding venue may also influence your catering options. Some venues, like the North Shore Country Club, allow you to choose your own caterer or select from their professional list. Others, like Inlet 790, offer their own catering services. If you opt for an outdoor beach wedding, ensure that you have a suitable plan for keeping food items fresh and protected from the elements.

Permits and Regulations:

Keep in mind any permits or regulations that may impact your catering plans. For example, if your wedding is held on the beach in Topsail Beach, permits are generally not required unless you plan to use amplification equipment. However, specific rules apply regarding open flames, candles, and glassware. Be sure to familiarise yourself with these regulations to ensure your catering plans comply with local guidelines.

Tastings and Trials:

Lastly, don't forget to schedule tastings with your chosen caterer or restaurant to ensure the food meets your expectations. It's also beneficial to have a backup plan in case of last-minute changes or unexpected delays.

By following these guidelines and recommendations, you can ensure that the catering and food for your Topsail Beach wedding are well-organised and memorable, contributing to a truly special day for you and your guests.

Photography

• Research and hire a professional photographer with experience in beach weddings. Some recommended photographers in the Topsail area include Alicia Q Photography, Jason Blumenthal Photography, Keepsake Memories Photography, Matt McGraw Photography, Hannah McMahon Photography, Unique Media & Design, Eastern Exposure Photography, and Katheryn Batts Photography.
• Discuss your vision and expectations with your photographer well in advance of the wedding day. Share any specific photo requests or must-have shots you have in mind.
• Consider the lighting and time of day for your ceremony and plan your photography accordingly. The golden hour before sunset can provide beautiful, soft lighting for photographs.
• If you're having a sunset ceremony, make sure your photographer is prepared with the right equipment to capture the moment without harsh shadows or silhouettes.
• Take advantage of the beach setting and include the stunning backdrop of the Atlantic Ocean in your photos. Utilize the white sandy beaches, the blue waters, and the breathtaking sunsets in your wedding photography.
• If you're staying in a rental property or having your wedding at a venue, ask about any restrictions or recommendations they may have regarding photography. Some venues may have specific rules or preferred shooting locations.
• If possible, visit Topsail Beach before your wedding day to scout out the best photo locations. Identify spots that will provide a variety of backdrops, including the beach, dunes, and any nearby natural features or landmarks.
• Discuss with your photographer the possibility of a "first look" photo session before the ceremony. This can be a special moment captured on film when the couple sees each other for the first time on their wedding day.
• Consider including some fun and creative photo props that fit the beach theme, such as seashells, starfish, or even a message in a bottle.
• Don't forget to capture the little details that make your wedding unique, such as the decorations, place settings, and any personalized touches you've added.
• If you're having a reception or other wedding events, ensure your photographer is aware of the timeline and any important moments you want to be captured, such as the first dance, cake cutting, or bouquet toss.

Frequently asked questions