OBXWA Has Everything (And Everyone) You Need For Your Wedding In The Outer Banks
With its quaint villages and scenic coastlines, it’s no wonder that North Carolina’s Outer Banks have been a wedding destination for centuries. And, while picking a destination with good bones is half the battle, planning a destination wedding (even one that’s not international) has its own special set of challenges. This is where the Outer Banks Wedding Association (OBXWA) can help.
They’re a one-stop shop for local, vetted Outer Banks wedding vendors–anything and everything you need for your big day! No more googling vendors for hours on end, scrolling through reviews, and hoping that you’re making the right choice–we seriously wish every destination had something like this! It makes everything so simple.
Why Local Vendors Are A Must
They Know The Venues
On your big day, you want everything to run smoothly so that you can be in the moment. You don’t want to be managing deliveries and helping the catering team figure out where they can set up the buffet. Because they’ve worked together so many times before, OBXWA members are familiar with each of the area’s specific venues inside and out.
They know what they can and cannot bring, delivery times, where to find parking, etc. They also know the best spots for photo ops!
They’ve Worked Together Before
Another huge plus is that OBXWA members all know each other and have great relationships that really come in handy, especially in emergency situations. They also know which vendors to recommend based on your preferences and desired wedding aesthetic.
We recommend starting with an OBXWA wedding planner. Check out their websites and social media accounts to find one whose style speaks to you. From there, they’ll be able to suggest other OBXWA members that share a similar style and will be able to bring your dream wedding to life.
They’re Prepared For The Weather
Like any coastal town, the Outer Banks has its fair share of weather fluctuations that only true locals know how to navigate. They know what weather sources to trust, where to find cover if necessary, and what parts to avoid depending on the weather and how high the tides will be.
And while OBXWA members can help you in case of a weather emergency, it’s always a good idea to have a Plan B set up beforehand. Together, they’ll help you create an indoor alternative that is every bit as magical as an outdoor celebration–just in case.
They’re Already There
This is one of the most important pieces (especially these days!). Travel can be so unpredictable, so, where flying your favorite vendors in from your hometown was once a fun prospect, now it is seriously stress-inducing.
What if your photographer misses their flight? What if your DJ gets stuck in traffic? Why invite potential catastrophes when that can all be easily avoided by booking local?
They Know How To Make Everything Official
Each state has its own requirements for obtaining a marriage license. Local planners know all of the ins and outs and can help you keep track of deadlines and paperwork filing. OBXWA also has a great website where you can read up on everything you need to know.
Meet The Members
Shopping for vendors is one of the most overwhelming parts of the planning process, but it doesn’t have to be. In fact, it can be fun! OBXWA hosts two annual wedding planning expos, the OBX Wedding Fest in late August and the Outer Banks Wedding Weekend in early March. Plan a getaway to the Outer Banks during one of the expos and take the time to meet the vendors and score exclusive discounts and giveaways, check out venues in person, and just explore the area in general. Think of it as a much-needed minimoon.
Get a free copy of Outer Banks Weddings Magazine using code "weddingchicks" at obxwa.com/magazine and be sure to follow @obxwa on Instagram to see everything this beautiful destination has to offer!
We partnered with OBXWA to bring you the inside scoop on how to score the area's best vendors. As always, thanks for supporting our sponsors!
- Wedding Resource: OBXWA