There are many wonderful new things newlyweds receive following their wedding. Presents, wedding rings, a new last name, just to name a few. One thing newlyweds don’t want to acquire is a load of wedding debt. Traditional wedding expenses can leave couples drowning in debt before even walking the aisle, and that’s not even counting your honeymoon. Is a destination wedding any cheaper? The answer is yes, it can be if you choose wisely and stay in the USA. Two of the most popular destinations are Clearwater Beach and St. Pete Beach. In fact, Tripadvisor has named St. Pete Beach the top beach in America for 2021! So let’s talk these beautiful Tampa Bay beaches and how to have a Florida Beach Wedding on a budget. Do the words affordable budget and wedding planning even belong in the same sentence? Yes!
$ Crunch the Numbers $
Before beginning any planning, do your homework. What is your budget? Planning Clearwater Beach Weddings on a budgetcan mean different things for different couples. However, even if you have the slimmest of funds, a little creativity and a small beach wedding package can work together for the beach ceremony of your dreams. Once you’ve established your bottom line budget, it’s time to get to planning the best Florida beach wedding!
Consider Your Costs
Think of all the non-negotiable items involved in your Florida Beach Wedding Budget. It’s a common mistake to skip right to the wedding planning and neglect travel and lodging costs. So avoid any sneaky, costly, surprises with your wedding budget by considering the following expenses. There’s a great tool to get an estimated cost calculator for traveling. And with Clearwater Beach near Tampa Bay, you can get even more accurate budget costs by city.
Travel Expenses
Flying? Driving? Check out travel costs, bearing in mind calendar dates may cause variations in price. Websites, like Trip Advisor, allow you to search for by date, airport, and travel preferences. Driving? Google Maps allows you to type in your location and destination for mileage estimates and food, hotel, etc. along the way. Right now, air travel is more affordable than ever and passengers named Tampa as one of North America’s most hygienic airports!
Lodging
The average cost for a hotel in Florida is around $100-$200/night. Of course, you can find more budget friendly places or live the luxurious life and go all out. So that’s a starting point. Again, check out the cost calculator by city to get a better idea. The Tampa Bay area offers so many choices that it’s easy to find your preferred type of accommodations. Check out the Holiday Inn Harbourside an ideal location for couples that want to enjoy an all-inclusive Clearwater Beach wedding venue since you can book a wedding reception there too. Want beachfront? The 3 Palms Retreat is an ideal location for an entire bridal party. This rental property has beautiful views of the ocean. What makes this house even more extraordinary is the separation of the main house and the duplex: it provides separate areas to get ready before the wedding. It can be less expensive than you think for family and friends when sharing.
Food
This is a budget point that will sneak up on you before you know it. The average cost for food is $44/day! However, finding a hotel with a kitchen/kitchenette can cut down on that price substantially. So if you’re on a tight budget, add a hotel room kitchen to your must have list and you can save hundreds on food. If you are planning a beach wedding reception you will have to add that to your budget as well.
Entertainment
The great thing about Florida Beach Weddings on a budget is you have built in free entertainment- the Gulf beach! So a bathing suit and sunscreen could be your only expense here. The sun and sea are priceless especially on the white sand of Clearwater Beach! But if you’re looking to hit up a concert, visit a theme park, book a fishing charter, or other fun Florida activity, consider those costs as you plan.
Wedding Dress & Accessories
Bridal gowns and suits vary greatly in price. Some of the pricier gowns can be in the thousands, but the great thing about a Florida Beach Wedding is the laid back atmosphere. That means lots of options for the bridal dress code. Love Boho or a short wedding dress? You can find a casual beach wedding dress for less than $100. Or check your local swip swap and resale stores if you are set on that traditional wedding dress without breaking the bank. Same goes for the groom. A nice pair of khakis and white button down fits right in on the beach and your budget.
Invitations
In an age where technology is king, the e-vite is a perfectly suitable and cost efficient means of inviting guests for your Clearwater Beach wedding on a budget. That should cover just about all the non-negotiable wedding costs. So now, let’s move onto your big day.. choosing your budget friendly wedding package.
The next step is to visit our complete Wedding Packages page and find your perfect wedding day set up. Our Beach Wedding Specialists are waiting to help you. Complete package prices start at $699 and go up to around $2,500. You show up to the beach with your marriage license and Florida Beach Weddings does the rest. Best of all our family and friends operated beach wedding company handles the setup and breakdown. You don’t have to lift a “ring finger”.
“I Do!”
Now that you have a clear budget outline, it’s time to make the “free” decisions. Wedding date, specific location, vow choices, color schemes…Contact us today to start planning the Florida Beach Wedding of your dreams.
Wow, your beach wedding countdown is officially 1 week away! You’ve made phone calls, paid deposits, bought, altered, picked out and perfected every last wedding detail. And you’re only days away from the official “just married” title. Getting the planning out of the way can make it easier and more enjoyable for the happy couple on their special day. Use this checklist so you can rest assured that when you walk down the aisle, saying “I do” is the only thing you have left to-do on your list.
Couple on St. Augustine Beach after ceremony
Beach Wedding Countdown Checklist
Make your Florida marriage legal
Have you applied for your marriage license? Whether you get married on the Gulf coast or an Atlantic beach, this is a critical detail. Contact your wedding coordinator if you aren’t sure what you need to do. Also, make sure you or someone very trustworthy is in charge of bringing the marriage license to the wedding site the day of your ceremony. Check out some FAQs for obtaining a marriage license in Florida here.
Pamela Fuit Beach Wedding Officiant
Last minute wedding vendor details
During this last week before you tie the knot, call any vendors to confirm appointment times:
hair salon
nails
gift baskets
photographer
travel vendors
pickup of any accessories, etc.
Even if you have a cheap beach wedding package, extras can add up fast if you have to do things last minute! Now is also a good time to check your map to ensure the timing is going to work to and from hotels, appointments and your beach location. If your wedding day is on a weekend, consider that traffic will be busier than a weekday. Think of it as part of the fun to make your wedding day as stress-free as possible.
Check out the beach
A day or two before the actual wedding ceremony, go and check out your beach location. Your wedding specialist will have sent you a detailed itinerary so you can also check out parking and meeting spots ahead of time. While you’re there, why not pack a beach chair and a towel and enjoy some sunshine! If anyone asks, it’s part of the beach wedding preparation. Oh, and don’t forget sunscreen to avoid a burn or unsightly tan lines.
Turtle Beach
Your guests
Now is a good to figure out what your guests might do after your wedding: natural leisure activities such as beach-going, hiking or water sports. They might also enjoy getting a list of museums and restaurants nearby. Anything you prepare for them in advance will be appreciated and add to their vacation time enjoyment in Florida, after your special day. You might even want to join them!
Wedding dress details
Literally iron out any details: get the iron (or steamer) out and make sure your dress and your significant other’s wedding attire is ready to go. You don’t want to worry about this right before you head out to your ceremony. Hopefully you followed any packing and travel tips here.
Get married!
Having a schedule or list will help you make sure that everything goes as smoothly as you planned. Having a trusted friend or volunteer help when you are pulled in many directions on your wedding day is a very good idea (especially if children are involved). If you’ve chosen a beach wedding package you won’t have to worry about decorations, officiant, chairs or even wedding photography (optional). Whether you’re a frequent beach goer or you’ve traveled many miles for your destination wedding, keep the beach mentality. Take it easy, relax, enjoy this special time and congratulations!
Read our reviews on Wedding Wire. Feel free to contact us with any questions you may have about Florida Beach Weddings, your preferred date or Florida wedding packages.
Tucked away from busy, everyday life there is a hidden gem of a town, Ponce Inlet. Situated just a few miles south of Daytona Beach, Ponce Inlet is a much quieter, more preserved version of it’s bustling neighbor: the “world famous” beach. That being said there are still days worth of exploring and fun within this quaint beachfront town. With emerald water so clear you can see through the warm rolling waves and white sand, you might think you are closer to the Bahamas than Florida! Ponce Inlet provides opportunities to see manatees, dolphins frolicking close by and manta rays swimming by your side. As the fluffy white clouds billow offshore, you and your beloved just might decide to stay forever after your wedding on the beach…and who could blame you? But if you can break away from the sun and sea, then grab your sneakers, appetite for fun and let’s explore Ponce Inlet Beach!
Top 5 Things to do in Ponce Inlet
One of the coolest things about this list is you could do them all without any transportation besides your own two feet! Now if you’re planning a summer Ponce Inlet wedding, you will likely still want to drive and soak up some A/C in between stops. Let’s explore Ponce Inlet and why it is pretty perfect!
1. Ponce Inlet Jetty
There aren’t many places quite like Ponce Inlet Jetty. You can actually walk along a paved sidewalk atop the jetty for about 100 yards. The views are like no other with a variety of boats passing by. It’s like you’re walking on water. The jetty itself is free. Parking at the Lighthouse Park runs $10. Public bathrooms, picnic tables, a wooden walkway through the dunes, all make for a perfect beach adventure! The water is the clearest in this area: watch the fish shimmer in the sun as you take a swim. You can even get married at this park with the lighthouse in the background!
2. Ponce Preserve
You don’t need extreme survival skills to hike this trail. However, the views and peacefulness at Ponce Preserve are well worth any trek. You can walk through a shaded path to a lookout tower with a beautiful ocean view. Continue a little further to a beach access point. Walk in the opposite direction and you can journey down the boardwalk to the Intracoastal river. At its heart is the Green Mound State Archaeological Site, an ancient Indian midden. At the base of the Green Mound is a live oak estimated to be more than 350 years old. It’s the perfect spot to reconnect with your significant other and enjoy the beauty of nature. If you are staying in the area for your honeymoon, why not share a romantic moment and watch the sun rise together.
3. Marine Science Center
A fun spot for animal lovers, kids and grown ups alike! The Marine Science Center is an awesome place to visit for an hour or two. You can pet sting rays (don’t worry, they’re harmless), observe gorgeous tropical fish tanks, learn about the turtle rehabilitation and view sea turtles, visit the aviary, and more! And there’s a fun gift shop with perfect souvenirs to remember your Florida Beach Wedding by!
4. Ponce Inlet Lighthouse
Tie your sneakers and get ready for some spectacular views! Climb 203 steps to the top of the 175 foot tall lighthouse. The views of the ocean, beach, and surrounding cities of New Smyrna Beach and Daytona Beach is breathtaking! Trekking to the top is well worth the effort — and when you come back down explore in the on-site museum and light station. The Ponce de Leon Inlet Light Station is one of only 11 lighthouses on the National Historic Landmark list.
5. Off the Hook
Looking for a place to get some delicious fresh seafood (or a burger for you non-seafood lovers out there)? Off the Hook offers delicious food and an atmosphere that matches the Florida vibe. Picture yourself: sitting on the water, sunset watchin’, cold drink in hand, and maybe even a dolphin show in the river if you’re lucky! Sounds like a date!
So what complete beach wedding packages work best with a Ponce Inlet seaside wedding? Our staff recommends these ocean themed decorations:
The Beach Bliss Distinctive Design with navy and gold decor is perfect with the sky, the sand and the sea. Hanging starfish lanterns, flowers, nautical rope and a large decorated “chalkboard” sign announcing the new couple is stunning, along with a chilled water station for your guests. You can even change the materials colors if you like.
Another favorite is the Teal Distinctive Design. Nothing says “ocean” like vibrant teal flowers, greenery and bamboo. White resin chairs and chalkboard sign announce your marriage, along with the convenient addition of chilled water for your wedding guests.
Okay, now you know how to enjoy this pretty and pleasant beachfront venue. We’d be remiss if we didn’t mention that getting married on Ponce Inlet Beach is pretty darn awesome too! :) Click HERE to book your beach wedding today!
The World’s Most Famous Beach may also added to the list of World’s Most Famous Beach Wedding. With a uniquely distinct beach atmosphere, cool Atlantic waves and endless entertainment it’s no wonder this ocean beach is so popular. However, within the Daytona Beach area, there are a variety of beaches to choose from, each with its own personality and characteristics like Ponce Inlet featured in the photograph below. One of them may be right for you! Read on to find out more about the best Daytona Beach Wedding Locations.
Bride and groom kissing Ponce Inlet Beach
On Daytona Beach:
The Shores Resort and Spa
If you’re looking for the kind of place where you can do it all, this is it. The Shores has award winning accommodations, both top end and poolside dining, spa, nightly bar specials, oceanfront bonfire pits, breathtaking views. Oh and did we mention you can walk right from your hotel room to the beach for your marriage ceremony! Talk about convenience. The Shores also offers a variety of seasonal sale rates on rooms for the complete affordable beach wedding experience!
The Shores Resort in Daytona Beach with wedding couple
Daytona Beach Shores wedding couple on the beach
Best Western Aku Tiki
Happy hour, free breakfast, in room kitchenette option, this hotel is like a vacationers home away from home. And Aku Tiki rates reflect it’s friendly accommodations. They boast, ” The new tropical style remains true to the unique beach character guests have come to know and love, while giving the hotel new life, reflective of the fun Daytona Beach spirit.” You’ll get a real island experience and swim in one of Daytona’s largest all-tile heated pools! This hotel is also family friendly, with a kiddie pool, picnic area, and family recreation area with basketball, table tennis, and shuffleboard. It’s also one of the closest to entertainment areas. Again, walk right from your room to the beach for your wedding by the sea – the Beach Bliss package is perfect!
Aku Tiki
Beach Bliss complete wedding package
Hilton Garden Inn
On the north end of the Daytona Beach map, this Hilton hotel is conveniently located near great local attractions. Oceanfront pool, fitness center, on site restaurant, and room service all allow you to check in, kick back, and enjoy your beach vacation! A special romance package may also be available. This hotel also offers great rates to fit in your budget friendly beach wedding. And AGAIN, on minute you’re in your hotel room, the next you’re walking down to your dream beach wedding!
Hilton Garden Inn Daytona Beach
Other Nearby Beaches:
Wilbur by the Sea
While this beach spot is not connected to a hotel, it offers a slightly more private beach wedding experience. What you lose in convenience of being able to walk from your hotel room to the beach, you make up for in tranquil beach atmosphere with fluffy, white sand and subtle sunsets. Also, this location has a large public parking lot just a block from the beach. So this location is a great option to accommodate large wedding groups. And there are some great Airbnb options. Or, you can still stay in the heart of the action and Daytona entertainment with just a 10-15 minute ride to this excellent beach spot.
Wilbur-By-The-Sea wedding couple
Wilbur Beach bride with veil at sundown kissing groom
Ponce Inlet Jetty
This is certainly one of the most unique beach spots of them all. The pictures speak louder than words. This beach is situated on the southern portion of the greater Daytona Beach area. It’s about a 20 minute drive from the entertainment hub of Daytona. However, the landscape and vibe of Ponce Inlet will have you feeling like you’re on a secluded island with emerald waters. With the climbable lighthouse, walk-along jetty, and gorgeous sand dunes, this beach is simply picturesque. And why not celebrate your first dinner as newlyweds oceanfront at North Turn or riverfront at Off the Hook .
Ponce Inlet Daytona Beach ceremony
Bride and Groom Ponce Inlet Beach walkway
Find your perfect beach Daytona Beach Wedding location and get married with a Florida sunset. Our couples give us 4.9 out of 5 stars on Wedding Wire. Want to find out more about our all inclusive wedding packages? CLICK HERE to book your Florida Beach Wedding!
In 2020, the one thing COVID-19 hasn’t canceled is love. The micro-wedding trend that we blogged about earlier this year continues to pick up steam and will likely continue to grow as social distancing practices continue. Less than 50 guests, and more often 20, seems to be the new normal for weddings. On the Florida beaches, wedding ceremonies continue and your guests can feel comfortable attending an outdoor wedding. The bride and groom can save money at the same time since the package cost for a micro-wedding ranges from around $1100-2,500, depending on party size, beach venue and other customization. The average size of a traditional 2019 wedding was 131 guests and about $30,000 according to a survey by TheKnot.com. Why not consider a Florida destination wedding instead?
White lily Topper
Couples who don’t want to put their weddings on hold or have a courthouse ceremony are considering their options for smaller weddings. With a micro wedding on a Florida beach, brides don’t have to give up their dreams of beautiful decorations, wedding arches and walking down an aisle. It’s a more intimate ceremony with fewer people, therefore couples can use more of their wedding budget for a memorable wedding and honeymoon.
The perfect marriage ceremony choice for a micro-wedding, the Florida Nautical Knot package is a great option. Bamboo poles with your choice of two colors, a bamboo topper, white or ivory chair covers with colored sashes, and seating for up to 18 people are included in this package. More chairs can be added for $8 each. Click here to find out more.
Clearwater Beach Nautical Knot
St. Pete Beach Nautical Knot
Daytona Beach Nautical Knot
Palm Coast Nautical Knot
Florida Destiny Package
The Florida Destiny Package offers the bride the most choices for her wedding decorations. With over 20 different color choices for the bamboo canopy, multiple choices for the canopy topper, a variety of aisle-way choices and an extensive list of ceremony music choices, you can design your wedding online with flair. Seat up to 24 guests in deluxe white chairs and your choice of spandex sash color. The perfect size for a micro-wedding! Click here to find out more.
Beautiful Florida Destiny lantern decor option
Clearwater Destiny Package
Shades of the Ocean Destiny Package
Aloha Destiny Package
Rustic Romance Package
The Rustic Romance package is our newest design and gaining popularity with our brides who love the feel of a natural, barn-feel wedding but near the sea. It is complete with a large, wooden canopy elegantly draped with flowing material and an over-sized cascading floral topper. With its muted colors, large flowers, greenery aisle, and bamboo chairs, this affordable wedding package starts at $1325, depending on location. It is perfect for the couple looking to bring romantic elegance with modern design to their ceremony on the beach. It comes with 18 chairs but can accommodate up to 40 guests. Click here to find out more.
How to Book a Florida Beach Micro-Wedding
Regardless of where you live, planning your wedding with us at the Florida Beach Weddings company is easy:
Begin by selecting a micro wedding package that is within your budget and delights you.
Then reserve a wedding date and receive access to your private client portal. The contract, general timeline for wedding day, and all of your personal ceremony choices will be made online from the comfort of your home. It is easy to keep track of options and expenses.
The week of your ceremony, we’ll send you a detailed agenda so you know exactly what to expect for your big day.
When it’s finally time to tie the knot, you’ll be able to truly relax because we’ll take care of everything. You bring your soon-to-be lawfully wedded spouse and wedding dress, we take care of just about all the rest. From set up and break down, wedding officiant, photographer, to location selections,and Florida marriage license filing, we have you covered. With our extensive experience in the beach wedding business, we can tell you what to expect and how to make your day perfect in every way!
When you combine, affordability and convenience and mix it with the natural beauty of a Florida beachfront, you can’t help but see why one of our Florida Beach Weddings is a stress free affair! The beach just has a mysterious way of taking away any tension. And the all-inclusive element eliminates so many tedious and stressful pre-wedding planning concerns.
Each beach has its own unique features. For instance, Wilbur-By-The-Sea near Daytona Beach has beautiful thick sand with dunes. St. Augustine is a historic and charming city and Clearwater Beach has amazing sunsets and is close to the excitement of Tampa. Florida Beach Weddings offers complete beach weddings on both the east coast and Gulf coast of Florida. So easy to tie the knot!
No matter what your original plans were, you only need three things to get married: a marriage license, the officiant and the person you intend to spend the rest of your life with. Make it beautiful and get ready say “I do” in the Sunshine State? Contact us to book your Florida Beach Wedding today!
