Beach weddings in Florida are the ultimate romantic getaway. Imagine standing on a beach with the waves lapping against the shore and the sun setting behind the horizon, with the wind whispering through the grasses and birds chirping in the distance. It’s a memory that you and your future spouse will treasure for the rest of your lives together.
But if you’ve never attended a beach wedding before, you might not be sure what to expect. Where will you get married? What if there’s bad weather? Can you bring your own vendors? Here’s what to expect when you get married at Lovers Key.
What to Expect From Lover’s Key Beach Weddings in Florida
A beach wedding might sound fun and romantic, but you probably don’t like the idea of trying to get married while hordes of people are swimming and building sandcastles in the background. That’s why you need an exclusive beach venue like Lovers Key. When you work with our event coordinator, you’ll be able to reserve a space on the beach that’s in line with your vision. You can enjoy a quiet, elegant wedding with your closest friends and relatives.
What does the venue look like?
Lovers Key has five venues, including the gazebo, a space for tables and chairs, and a bamboo arch placed in front of the waves. You’ll get married under the arch with the entire ocean behind you and your guests watching from rows of folding chairs. After the ceremony is over, you can have dinner outside and enjoy a reception in the elegant wedding gazebo. There’s enough space for everyone, so invite your extended family to share in this special day with your new spouse.
What happens if the weather is bad?
If you get hit with bad weather, you can either reschedule the event (often for the next day) or hold the wedding inside a tent or gazebo. The gazebo will be fully decorated and ready for your big day.
Is the entire venue outdoors?
If you love the beach, this is your dream wedding. The entire celebration is held outdoors, including the wedding ceremony. You’ll get married in front of the ocean, have dinner with the sun setting in the distance and enjoy your reception in the open-air gazebo. This does mean you’ll have to secure everything to keep the wind from blowing your chairs and decorations away. But it also means that you’ll get to enjoy the beauty of nature as you make a commitment to the person that you want to spend the rest of your life with.
Can I bring my own vendors?
You can bring your own vendors or choose from our list of preferred vendors. This includes caterers, open bar service, performers, and more. We’ve worked with our preferred vendors countless times, and we’re proud to say that they’re some of the best vendors in the community. If you bring a vendor that’s not on our preferred list, you may have to pay an additional fee.
Can we take part in outdoor activities before the wedding?
Absolutely! Talk to us about setting up a boating or beach trip before the wedding. You can treat your bridesmaids or groomsmen to an exciting day on the water before you get ready for your big day.
What about sea turtle nesting season?
From May to October, sea turtles arrive on the beach to lay their eggs in the sand. If you plan on having your wedding during this time, you’re eligible for discounted rates. However, you’ll also have to observe a strict curfew and be ready to leave the beach by 9 P.M.
What kinds of decorations can I rent?
In addition to your wedding package, you can rent a fire pit, tiki torches, outdoor heaters, palm trees, a volleyball net, vases, and other games and decorations. You can also rent special decorations for your chairs and tables. We also have custom linens for picnic tables. Be prepared to pay an extra fee for add-ons.
What kinds of packages do you have available?
We have multiple beach wedding packages that can suit your budget and needs. The basic package comes with a wedding ceremony under the bamboo arch and a few other services. More luxurious packages include gazebo rental, extra time for dinner, and a reception and special decorations to make the venue even more elegant.
When are the best times of year to hold beach weddings in Florida?
November through April are the best times to hold a beach wedding in Florida, as sea turtle nesting season will be over and you’ll be able to enjoy more privileges. You can aim for a spring wedding if you want more daylight hours. Additionally, keep in mind that the landscape will change throughout the year.