Perhaps surprisingly, nudist or naturist weddings are becoming increasingly popular. It is exactly what it sounds like. A wedding with no clothes. Even those who are not committed to the nudist lifestyle are participating now. Either way, many couples are celebrating their nuptials in the nude. Niptials, if you will. Here, we will discuss how to host a successful nudist wedding from the invitations, location, and officiants, to other considerations.
The tradition of naked weddings used to be solely the domain of nudists or naturalists. These are people committed to a way of life that involves, among other traditions, being nude most or all of the time. But there is clearly an appeal to having a nude wedding even if you’re not interested in or committed to the lifestyle 24/7. The obvious advantages are saving money on all the expensive formal wear, the novelty, spirituality, and authenticity of being closer to nature. Therefore, couples outside of the lifestyle are also considering this intimate ceremony for their special day. It is an eco-friendly option, after all. Here is how to get started in planning your very own successful nudist wedding.
First, you and your partner should decide on how much skin to bare for you two, your wedding party, and guests. Sometimes it is only important for the couple to be naked for their own reasons. And other times this will even include everyone down to the officiant. It is crucial to be mindful of comfort level and respect boundaries that not everyone may want to celebrate your wedding in this way. Consider giving a few options for dress, or lack thereof, including cover ups, bottoms, or swimsuits. Or consider keeping it to a close circle of friends who share your lifestyle.
Make your wedding invitations very clear to avoid any potentially awkward miscommunications. It should be candid to anyone invited that the ceremony and reception will be in the nude or clothing optional, depending on what you and your partner have decided. If you choose to invite non nudists to your wedding, make sure you choose appropriate wording to help in transparency. Include any rules or etiquette especially for the reception. Maybe you’ll want people to slip something on for the dance floor only. Just make sure that’s all included up front.
Be open and receptive to guests’ questions and concerns, and try not to take it too personally should someone not RSVP. Here are a few considerations and compromises you may want to discuss with your partner should any issues arise.
Underwear or other cover ups can be optional. You may wish to have a separate nude ceremony and a clothed one. Or, get married naturally, and have the reception clothed so more guests would be included in the celebration. Whatever you decide, though, should be clearly communicated to anyone involved. This also means including any relevant information about children which depend on the venue and personal preference. But just don’t forget these deets.
Lastly, include any etiquette details about the venue as well, just so everything is above board. The venue may or may not have areas where clothing is required like where food is served. Even the Golden Girls had to discover this one the hard way. Let’s keep the comedy of errors to television, and not for your big day. Now we will look at venues in more detail.
While the United States isn’t exactly known for its open mindedness with sex and sexuality, there are still plenty of options for an appropriate venue when it comes to a nudist wedding. This part of planning is especially important when it comes to this style of celebration. So, let’s take a closer look at some options for a venue.
With a nudist venue, you’ll be able to choose from clothing optional locations including nudist colonies, hot springs, resorts, ranches, hotels, campgrounds, public beaches, and even cruises. So, the options are there, it just takes a little research to see which one is right for your wedding vision. Some facilities cater to families, or LGBTQ+ folks, some to the elderly and others are adults only. As we mentioned before, make sure to be clear about any venue specific etiquette on your correspondences.
When considering your budget for a venue, campgrounds may be the most bang for your buck. This would also be good for people who love nature and are spiritually inclined. Just don’t forget the sunscreen and bug repellent. Parks and beaches are also a good option and can give you a quote range. There are several locations nationally from casual to high end, in various states. Florida, Oklahoma, and California at least, have nationally recognized facilities for all your nudist needs.
A cruise is obviously the most expensive option, but ideal for the disposable income couple who wants to celebrate with style. Maybe even just for the honeymoon. Body shots anyone?
Lastly, it would be prudent to check out the American Association for Nude Recreation (AANR) or the Naturist Society, especially for those who are not in the lifestyle for tips and etiquette. Next, we will look at how to find a suitable officiant.
While we don’t have a directory for professional nudist officiants (yet), they do exist. If you can’t find one, there are other options. You also may want a close like-minded friend or relative to serve in this role. In this case, they can get ordained online for free with relative ease. Either way, the officiant may want the option of some cover up so make sure to discuss this comfort level with transparency.
Take a moment to reflect on what you will say during the ceremony. In addition to the typical things like your relationship, it may be wise to highlight why nudism is important to you as a couple. This can help the officiant personalize your wedding and give some insight to your more prudish guests.
If you don’t know the officiant beforehand, then make time for a meeting to discuss the big picture and the nitty gritty. You will discuss the tone and vibe of the wedding, and any rituals like handfasting or otherwise. Any important details that they need to know can be discussed here. This way, everyone is on the same page for protocol especially.
Being open with vendors is also important, as a side note. But don’t expect them to cater to your clothing preferences. The most important part is preventing miscommunication where a last minute surprise means a cancellation.
Lastly, we’ll look at a few other considerations for planning a successful nudist wedding.
Typical recommendations apply here, as many of the same traditions are honored even in the nude. Show up with plenty of time. Be prepared for the unexpected, and make sure to get your wedding license beforehand. The ceremony cannot be conducted without the license present.
Consider weather, and have umbrellas, sunscreen or other coverings available. Don’t forget the bug spray, especially if you have a bouquet of flowers.
It is worth reiterating that not everyone who has a nude wedding is a practicing nudist 24/7. So, if you’re planning this type of wedding and you’re not that, then it would be important to seek advice from practicing nudists. If you don’t have a local colony or resort, then there are plenty of online forums where you can pick some brains. They may have tips or personal experience that can help you with your big day. Remember to be considerate that this is a way of life for some people, and you are stepping into a community and subculture that has its own rules and way of doing things. You may or may not be aware of everything, so research is never a bad idea.
The above mentioned resources are a good start. Also, consider Fetlife, YouTube, or Reddit, wherever you would be most comfortable. The internet is your friend when it comes to planning a nudist wedding.
The most important things to keep in mind when planning a nudist wedding is etiquette, venue, and the marriage license. Make sure communication is open and clear with everyone. Consent is crucial always, and this is no exception. Deciding on a location may take a good bit of planning and research. Be sure to allow plenty of time for the appropriate vetting. We really will say it again. Don’t forget that license! While it won’t prevent you from getting married later, it will put a big dumb damper on the day. Even if you have it at home, the officiant needs to sign it in person. The last thing you want to do is go into the honeymoon fighting over it. Prioritize this detail however you need to.
Daniel Chan from Marketplace Fairness, advises to prepare for some raised eyebrows because “not everyone will be comfortable and that’s okay! Clearly explain your decision and be respectful of those who choose not to participate.”
Lastly, have fun! It’s finally your wedding day. Take everything as it comes and enjoy the event. After all this planning you will have deserved it. The most important thing is that at the end of the day you will be married to the love of your life, clothes or not.
