Couples come to Marco Island from all over the world for a magical, romantic wedding on the beach. Florida islands are ideal for all types of weddings, whether you want an adventure-packed weekend, a laid-back beach vibe or an elegant soiree. Believe it or not, intimate destination weddings can actually cost less than a traditional reception at home, and Florida beach weddings are more affordable than traveling abroad. Here are a few must-know tips if you’re planning your dream destination wedding on a Marco Island beach.
Choose an Ideal Time of Year
Marco Island’s weather is most enjoyable during April, May, October and November. While you’ll want to have your beach wedding during a time of year with reliably gorgeous weather, remember that better weather also means you’ll be right in the middle of tourist season. Make sure everyone reserves rooms and flights as early as possible. Alternatively, consider “shoulder season,” which is right at the end of the high season. The weather is still likely to be good, but the rates will drop a bit. Though it’s tempting to save a ton by booking your wedding during the off-season, many vendors may be unavailable – some completely close during this time.
Hire a Professional Wedding Planner
Florida weddings are difficult to plan from afar. Hire a local Marco Island wedding planner who will help you every step of the way. Your wedding planner will take care of any number of needs, like booking tent rentals, putting together gift bags, greeting people at the airport, handling special requests from guests, solving last-minute problems and keeping everyone on schedule.
Take a Wedding Planning Trip
Even the best wedding planner on the island can’t give you the in-person experience that’s so integral to putting together the perfect beach wedding. Schedule one (or more) planning trips in advance to handle things like scouting venues for the rehearsal dinner, ceremony and reception; meeting with vendors; tasting the appetizers, main courses and dessert that will be served; and having your hair and makeup trials. Being on the island will also make it easier to organize activities, like golf outings and spa treatments.
Treat Your Guests to VIP Service
While destination weddings are always a blast, your guests are spending a lot of time and money to be there for your special day. Show them how much you appreciate their effort by planning VIP treatment.
Here are a few ideas:
• Contact the airline to secure group rates.
• Give guests detailed information about getting to and from Marco Island.
• Send clear directions and maps to help them get around the island.
• Invite everyone to the welcome dinner and the day-after-the-wedding brunch.
• Have welcome bags waiting, with trip essentials like sunblock, water bottles and bug spray. We recommend Make a Memory.
• Cover some of the travel costs for your immediate family, like a car to get them to and from the wedding venue.
Additionally, plan fun activities for your loved ones since they’ll be there for at least a day or two before or after your wedding. Find out if there are any festivals or special events in town. If you have guests who want to golf, reserve tee times. Charter a boat to take everyone on a deep sea fishing trip. Rent a boat or jet skis and spend a day at Keewaydin Island. Book a sightseeing cruise at sunset. Whenever possible, make activities optional – you don’t want anyone feeling obligated to partake.
Florida beach weddings, set against a backdrop of the shimmering blue ocean, colorful seashells, stella sunsets and swaying palm trees, offer an unforgettable, once-in-a-lifetime opportunity.
Do you have guests that want to extend their stay and get to know Marco Island? Book one of our beachfront vacation rentals. Have questions on what to do on the Island, please ask, we love to help!
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