Virginia Beach is a popular wedding destination that offers a unique blend of coastal charm and southern hospitality. Couples who choose to tie the knot in this beautiful city have the opportunity to incorporate local culture into their special day, making it even more memorable and meaningful. From local cuisine to music and entertainment, there are many ways to infuse Virginia Beach culture into your wedding celebration.
Understanding Virginia Beach culture is the first step in incorporating it into your wedding day. This includes learning about the city’s history, traditions, and customs. Virginia Beach has a rich cultural heritage that is reflected in its architecture, art, and cuisine. By embracing these elements, couples can create a wedding that is truly unique and authentic. Incorporating local cuisine into your wedding menu, for example, is a great way to showcase the city’s culinary traditions and give your guests a taste of Virginia Beach.
Key Takeaways
- Understanding Virginia Beach culture is key to incorporating it into your wedding day.
- Local cuisine, music, and entertainment are great ways to showcase Virginia Beach culture.
- Choosing a venue and working with local vendors can also help reflect the city’s unique charm.
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Understanding Virginia Beach Culture
Virginia Beach is a city with a rich history and culture, with a unique blend of traditions from various backgrounds. The city is known for its beautiful beaches, lively boardwalk, and diverse community, which makes it an ideal location for couples who want to incorporate local culture into their wedding.
One of the most important things to understand about Virginia Beach culture is the emphasis on family and community. Family is highly valued in the area, and weddings are often seen as an opportunity to bring families together to celebrate the union of two individuals. This emphasis on family and community is reflected in the many cultural traditions that are often incorporated into Virginia Beach weddings.
Another important aspect of Virginia Beach culture is the region’s love of seafood. The city is located on the Atlantic Ocean, and fresh seafood is a staple of the local cuisine. Many couples choose to incorporate seafood into their wedding menus as a way to pay homage to the local culture.
In addition to seafood, Virginia Beach is also known for its love of music and dance. The city has a thriving music scene, with many local bands and musicians playing at weddings and other events. Couples who want to incorporate music into their wedding can choose from a variety of genres, including jazz, blues, and country.
Finally, Virginia Beach has a rich history of military service, with many military families living in the area. As a result, military traditions are often incorporated into Virginia Beach weddings, including the cutting of the cake with a saber and the wearing of military dress uniforms.
Overall, Virginia Beach culture is a unique blend of traditions from various backgrounds, with a strong emphasis on family, community, seafood, music, and military service. Couples who want to incorporate local culture into their wedding can draw inspiration from these traditions to create a celebration that is truly unique and reflective of the city’s rich cultural heritage.
Incorporating Local Cuisine into Your Wedding Menu
When planning a wedding in Virginia Beach, incorporating local cuisine into your menu is a great way to showcase the region’s unique flavors and add a personal touch to your special day. Here are some ideas for incorporating local cuisine into your wedding menu:
Seafood Specialties
Virginia Beach is known for its fresh seafood, so consider incorporating some of the region’s seafood specialties into your wedding menu. Some popular options include:
- Chesapeake Bay Blue Crabs: These crabs are a local favorite and can be served steamed or in crab cakes.
- Oysters: Virginia Beach is home to some of the best oysters in the country, so consider serving them raw or roasted.
- Shrimp and Grits: This classic Southern dish is a popular choice for weddings and can be made with locally sourced shrimp.
Farm-to-Table Options
Virginia Beach is surrounded by farmland, so incorporating farm-to-table options into your wedding menu is a great way to showcase the region’s fresh produce. Some ideas include:
- Grilled Vegetables: Local farms offer a variety of fresh vegetables that can be grilled and served as a side dish.
- Roasted Root Vegetables: Root vegetables like sweet potatoes and carrots are in season during the fall and winter and can be roasted and served as a hearty side dish.
- Seasonal Salads: Local farms offer a variety of fresh greens and vegetables that can be used to create a delicious salad.
Local Wine and Craft Beer
Virginia Beach is home to several wineries and breweries, so consider incorporating some of the region’s local wine and craft beer into your wedding menu. Some popular options include:
- Virginia Wine: Virginia is known for its wine, so consider serving a local red or white wine during dinner.
- Craft Beer: Virginia Beach is home to several craft breweries, so consider serving a local beer during cocktail hour or as a late-night snack.
By incorporating local cuisine into your wedding menu, you can create a unique and memorable experience for you and your guests. Whether you choose to serve seafood, farm-to-table options, or local wine and craft beer, your wedding menu is sure to be a hit.
Local Music and Entertainment
When it comes to planning a wedding in Virginia Beach, incorporating local music and entertainment can add a unique touch to the celebration. From live bands to local DJs, there are plenty of options to choose from. Here are some suggestions for incorporating local music and entertainment into your Virginia Beach wedding.
Virginia Beach Bands
Virginia Beach is home to a variety of talented bands that can provide live music for your wedding. Some popular options include:
- The Janitors Band: This team features an array of instruments, including keyboard, guitar, drums, and vocals. From your ceremony to your reception, this team of musicians will be ready to bring high energy and a swinging rhythm to a couple’s big day.
- The Deloreans: This band is known for their energetic performances and ability to get the party started. They play a mix of 80s hits and modern songs, making them a great choice for couples who want a fun and nostalgic vibe.
- Strictly Bizzness: This band plays a mix of funk, soul, and R&B, and is known for their engaging performances. They can provide music for your ceremony, cocktail hour, and reception, and will work with you to create a customized playlist.
Local DJs
If you prefer a DJ over a live band, there are plenty of talented local DJs in Virginia Beach. Some popular options include:
- Astro Event Company: This DJ company offers a range of services, including sound and lighting equipment, MC services, and customized playlists. They have a team of experienced DJs who can provide music for weddings of all sizes.
- DJ Hype: This veteran-owned and operated DJ company is one of the most sought-after wedding DJs in the area. They offer personalized service and will work with you to create a playlist that reflects your musical tastes and preferences.
- DJ West: This DJ has been providing music for weddings and events in Virginia Beach for over 20 years. He has a vast collection of music and can provide customized playlists for your ceremony, cocktail hour, and reception.
Overall, incorporating local music and entertainment into your Virginia Beach wedding can add a special touch to your celebration. Whether you choose a live band or a DJ, there are plenty of talented options to choose from.
Local Wedding Attire Trends
When it comes to planning a wedding in Virginia Beach, incorporating the local culture into the attire can add a unique touch to the celebration. Here are some local wedding attire trends to consider.
Beach-Inspired Bridal Wear
For brides looking to embrace the beachy vibes of Virginia Beach, there are plenty of options to choose from. Flowy, lightweight fabrics like chiffon and lace are popular choices for beach-inspired bridal gowns. Many brides opt for a more casual look, choosing shorter dresses or even a two-piece ensemble.
Accessories can also add a beachy touch to the bridal look. Seashell or starfish hair accessories, barefoot sandals, and beachy jewelry are all popular choices. For brides who want to incorporate the local flora into their look, a flower crown made with local blooms like wildflowers or beach roses can be a beautiful addition.
Groom’s Attire
For grooms, a beach wedding is the perfect opportunity to ditch the traditional suit and tie and opt for a more casual look. Light-colored linen or cotton suits paired with a crisp white shirt and loafers or boat shoes are a popular choice for beach weddings.
For a more laid-back look, grooms can opt for khaki pants and a linen shirt or even a Hawaiian shirt. A fun touch for the groom and his groomsmen is to wear matching sunglasses or beach hats.
Incorporating local culture into the wedding attire can add a special touch to the celebration. Whether it’s a beach-inspired bridal gown or a casual groom’s suit, Virginia Beach has plenty of options to choose from.
Incorporating Local Traditions
When planning a Virginia Beach wedding, incorporating local traditions can add a unique and meaningful touch to your special day. Here are some ways to infuse your wedding celebration with local culture.
Virginia Beach Wedding Rituals
Virginia Beach has a rich history and culture, and there are several wedding rituals that are unique to the area. One popular tradition is the “Sand Ceremony,” where the couple pours two different colors of sand into a jar, symbolizing the blending of their lives together. Another tradition is the “Oyster Shell Ceremony,” where the couple exchanges oyster shells instead of rings, as a nod to Virginia Beach’s seafood industry.
Local Wedding Gifts
Incorporating local wedding gifts into your celebration is a great way to support local businesses and give your guests a taste of Virginia Beach. Consider giving out jars of locally-made honey or jams as favors, or gifting guests with Virginia Beach-themed items like beach towels or tote bags. For a more unique option, consider gifting guests with a bottle of locally-produced wine or craft beer.
Overall, incorporating local traditions and gifts into your Virginia Beach wedding can add a special touch that will make your day even more memorable.
Choosing a Venue That Reflects Local Culture
When planning a Virginia Beach wedding, it’s important to choose a venue that reflects the local culture. This can help create a unique and memorable experience for both the couple and their guests. Here are some options for beachfront and historic venues that incorporate local culture:
Beachfront Venues
Virginia Beach is known for its beautiful beaches and oceanfront views. Choosing a beachfront venue can provide a stunning backdrop for a wedding ceremony and reception. Consider venues that offer local seafood and beach-inspired decor to fully immerse guests in the local culture.
The Sheraton Virginia Beach Oceanfront Hotel is a popular beachfront venue that recently underwent renovations. The hotel offers ocean views and elegant ballrooms that can accommodate small intimate groups or up to 400 guests. They also offer local seafood options on their catering menu.
Another option is the Virginia Beach Resort Hotel and Conference Center. This venue offers beachfront access and a variety of indoor and outdoor spaces for ceremonies and receptions. They also offer a seafood buffet featuring local catches from the Chesapeake Bay.
Historic Venues
Virginia Beach has a rich history dating back to colonial times. Choosing a historic venue can provide a glimpse into the area’s past and add a unique touch to a wedding. Consider venues that offer tours or exhibits to showcase local history.
The Adam Thoroughgood House is a historic venue that dates back to the 17th century. The house and surrounding gardens provide a picturesque setting for a wedding ceremony and reception. They also offer guided tours of the house to educate guests on the area’s history.
Another option is the Military Aviation Museum. This venue offers a unique setting with vintage aircraft and artifacts from World War I and II. The museum also offers tours and exhibits to showcase the history of military aviation.
When choosing a venue that reflects local culture, it’s important to consider the couple’s personal style and preferences. Incorporating local elements can add a special touch to a wedding and create lasting memories for everyone involved.
Working with Local Vendors
When planning a Virginia Beach wedding, it’s essential to work with local vendors who know the area and can provide the best services to make your wedding day unforgettable. Virginia Beach has a wide range of local vendors, including florists, photographers, caterers, and more.
Florists
Virginia Beach has many talented florists who can create stunning floral arrangements to match your wedding theme. Local florists can also recommend the best seasonal flowers to use, ensuring that your wedding flowers look their best on your big day. Some of the top florists in Virginia Beach include:
- Norfolk Florist
- Black Iris Floral Events
- The New Leaf
Photographers
A professional photographer is essential to capture all the special moments of your Virginia Beach wedding. Local photographers have the advantage of knowing the best locations for wedding photos and can provide unique perspectives that out-of-town photographers might miss. Some of the top photographers in Virginia Beach include:
- Dragon Studio
- Echard Wheeler Photography
- David Champagne Photography
When selecting a local vendor, it’s essential to do your research and read reviews from previous clients. Ensure that the vendor has experience working with weddings and can provide references if requested. By working with local vendors, you can support the local economy while ensuring that your wedding day runs smoothly.
Conclusion
Incorporating local culture into a Virginia Beach wedding can add a unique touch to the celebration. From the food to the music, there are many ways to infuse the local flavor into the wedding festivities.
One way to do this is by incorporating local seafood into the menu. Virginia Beach is known for its fresh seafood, and incorporating it into the wedding menu can give guests a taste of the local cuisine. Local restaurants and caterers can provide a variety of seafood options, from shrimp to oysters to crab cakes.
Another way to infuse local culture into the wedding is through the music. Virginia Beach has a rich music scene, with a variety of genres represented. Couples can hire local musicians or bands to play at the wedding, or they can create a playlist featuring local artists.
In addition to food and music, couples can incorporate local traditions into the wedding ceremony. For example, they can include a unity sand ceremony, which is a popular tradition in Virginia Beach. This involves the couple pouring different colored sand into a container, symbolizing the blending of their lives together.
Overall, incorporating local culture into a Virginia Beach wedding can add a special touch to the celebration. Whether it’s through the food, music, or traditions, there are many ways to infuse the local flavor into the wedding festivities.