There’s something about Ocean City, NJ, that makes you want to stick around. Maybe it’s the salt air, the way the town slows down in the off-season, or the fact that no matter how much changes, the shore always feels like home. If you grew up here or spent your summers running barefoot on the boardwalk, there’s no better place to start your forever.
I’ve seen a lot of weddings in this town—beach ceremonies at sunset, casual receptions at local restaurants, even some of the most stunning church weddings you could imagine. No matter how simple or elaborate, every Ocean City wedding has one thing in common: It just feels right. If you’re thinking about tying the knot here, you already know why. Now, let’s talk about how to do it.
Finding the Perfect Spot
Most couples getting married in Ocean City immediately picture a beach wedding. And yeah, there’s something incredible about exchanging vows with your feet in the sand, the ocean rolling in behind you. But if you don’t want to worry about wind, tide schedules, or the possibility of tourists accidentally wandering into your ceremony, there are plenty of other options.
The historic Ocean City Yacht Club is a local favorite, offering stunning bay views without the unpredictability of the beach. Then there’s the Flanders Hotel—an iconic spot that blends old-school elegance with that unmistakable Ocean City charm. If you’re looking for something more laid-back, a backyard wedding at a family shore house can be just as beautiful, with the bonus of feeling completely personal.
Invitations That Set the Tone
Long before your guests step onto the boardwalk or smell the salty air, they’ll get their first taste of your wedding through the invitations. That’s why it’s worth putting in the extra effort to make them feel special.
The good news? You don’t have to be a graphic designer—or spend a fortune—to create something that fits your vision. You can design your own wedding invites online to make them more personal, choosing colors that match the sea, fonts that feel classic or playful, and details that instantly tell your guests what kind of celebration they’re in for. Whether you go for breezy and beachy or timeless and elegant, the right invite sets the stage for the day you’re about to create.
Making the Details Feel Local
One of the best parts about getting married in Ocean City is that the town itself does half the work for you. There’s a built-in atmosphere here—laid-back, coastal, with just enough nostalgia to make it feel special. You don’t have to overdo the decorations or try to manufacture a vibe that’s already naturally there.
Instead of traditional wedding favors, why not give guests something they’ll actually use? Saltwater taffy from Shriver’s, caramel popcorn from Johnson’s, or mini jars of locally made honey all make perfect take-home treats. And when it comes to wedding rings, Ocean City has plenty of small jewelers that offer something beyond the typical big-box store selections. Whether you’re after something vintage, custom-made, or just a little different from what everyone else has, it’s worth checking out the shops downtown before settling on designer wedding bands from a chain store.
The Food That Makes the Night
If you’re hosting your wedding in Ocean City, chances are, you’re not looking for a super formal, stuffy experience. The best receptions feel effortless—good food, good drinks, and a dance floor that stays packed until the last song.
Local catering options cover everything from traditional sit-down dinners to casual, beach-friendly bites. Some couples go all in on seafood, with raw bars, fresh crab cakes, and even a clam bake-style dinner. Others keep it classic with stations, buffets, or even food trucks parked outside the reception. And for dessert? You don’t have to skip the cake, but adding a make-your-own sundae bar with ice cream from Kohr Bros. or a spread of fresh donuts from Brown’s never hurts.
Why Ocean City Weddings Just Feel Different
It’s hard to explain to people who didn’t grow up here, but Ocean City has a way of making everything feel a little more meaningful. Maybe it’s because so many of us have childhood memories tied to this place—watching fireworks on the beach, riding bikes down Asbury in the early morning, eating pizza on the boardwalk long after the sun goes down. Getting married here isn’t just about the scenery. It’s about the feeling.
And when the night ends, and you walk down the boardwalk in your wedding dress, holding the hand of the person you just married, you’ll understand exactly what I mean.
