Thoughts???

So my boyfriend and I have been talking for over a year about getting married. We’ve debated on a courthouse wedding, or eloping. But I’ve always dreamed to have a nice dress and my dad walk me down the isle. My dad and I recently talked about a wedding and he said I shouldn’t waste money on something big and extravagant because my family sucks and people are so unreliable these days and prob wouldn’t show up. He wasn’t being mean, it’s a reality that we have noticed with family events such as weddings and baby showers. So I am now thinking a beach wedding. Me and my boyfriend, his parents and my parents next year in May or maybe August/September?? Idk. I’ve not been to the beach so opinions welcome.

Anyone else do a small beach wedding?? Suggestions? Recommendations? Thinking ocean city. How do I go about doing it? Where do I start?