Planning Tips for a Destination Wedding in the Florida Keys

Planning for your special day starts with selecting the perfect location, and the Florida Keys certainly offers the most exceptional waterfront views and sunsets, all year round! However, planning and coordinating the details of an out-of-town or out-of-state wedding can be a challenge, so how do you properly plan and prepare for your Florida Keys wedding experience?

Close your eyes and imagine yourself standing in a beautiful sandy beach, listening to the sounds of the ocean, and surrounded with the ones you love as you make a promise to love and cherish your spouse for as long as you both shall live. There’s no denying that a destination wedding is simply magical and so romantic.

I’ve compiled a list of tips and ideas to help you make the most out of your big day!

Best time of the year for a destination wedding in the Florida Keys

• Choosing a date is one of the most important decisions you will make during the planning process. When selecting your wedding date, it is vital that you pick a date that is special for you. However, be sure to keep in mind that tying the knot during special holidays, local event weekends, major sporting events, and other holidays of this nature may have an impact on every other aspect of your big day. As for the weather, the Florida Keys is absolutely beautiful in early summer, spring, fall, and even the winter. Making it a top destination wedding location all-year-round. You can plan accordingly for the weather based on past Florida Keys weather and climate records and standards. 

What should you wear

• Consider lightweight fabrics, such as linen, lightweight cotton, chiffon, and seersucker. Opt for easy to move in and breathable clothing. In the Florida Keys, shoes are always optional, but a nice pair of flat sandals and wedges will also work! As for the bride, if you have always dreamed of a Cinderella ball gown, go for it! But when choosing the perfect wedding dress, keep in mind that the climate in Florida tends to very warm and humid. You will want to stay cool and comfortable!

Packing for your destination wedding in the FL Keys

• It’s best to start packing for your destination wedding in advance to ensure you that don’t leave any necessary items behind. While deciding on what to wear, check out the weather to make sure you know what to expect. Once you’ve selected your outfits, it is time to focus on the smaller items that you can’t live without such as medication, identification, and toiletries. Don’t forget to pack essential items, such as marriage license and wedding rings. Other necessary items will include a lovely hat, sunglasses, sunscreen, and insect repellent. These items are always essential when visiting the sunny Florida Keys, regardless of the time of the year.

Embrace the setting that the Florida Keys has to offer

• When selecting wedding favors and décor for your wedding, choose items that will work in a beach/outdoor setting. When it comes to seating cards, keep the wind in mind, paper goods may be blown away and ruined if not properly secured. Try securing them with place cards holders, clips or pins to add some weight. If you are thinking of having a unity candle for your ceremony, consider a sand ceremony instead. You may use the sand from your ceremony location to create a memorable keepsake. We love the idea of incorporating beach-themed décor, adding tropical flowers, or using vibrant colors in your décor to add to the island vibes. Key Lime pies are a must when visiting the Florida Keys; they are also an excellent alternative for the traditional wedding cake. Stop by for a tasting at the Key Lime Pie Factory. However, if you love the idea of a traditional wedding cake, you may choose to go with tropical flavors that are equally delicious, such as coconut, pineapple, vanilla rum, and piña colada.

I hope you found these planning tips helpful! If you have any questions regarding Destination Weddings in the Florida Keys, feel free to contact Magnolia Weddings and Events.