Engaged couples who planned to get married in the summer of 2020 had to re-think their wedding plans due to global conditions and inability to host large social gatherings. As a result, engaged couples eloped postponed, or opted for a small wedding with plans for a larger celebration down the road.
Out of this predicament however came a trend that has caught hold, and since it really only takes two to say “I Do”, micro-weddings are still going strong for couples and families well into 2022.
Barefoot in the Sand
If barefoot in the sand describes your dream wedding, Fort Lauderdale Beach delivers all this and more. While currently it is suggested groups of now more than 10 are permitted to congregate, and facial coverings are recommended, you can still gather your nearest and dearest for your ceremony on the shoreline. Options range from the exclusive private beaches at Fort Lauderdale Marriott Harbor Beach Resort, B Ocean Fort Lauderdale, and Lago Mar Resort & Spa, to the picnic table and palm tree lined public setting at Fort Lauderdale Beach Park. Best of all are the savings with either option, as no permit is required to have a wedding ceremony on the sand and décor comes courtesy of Mother Nature as she shows off her blue and gold for sunrise services or the most beautiful hues of red and orange for sunset ceremonies. Planning is also as easy as the ocean breeze with online applications available to complete in advance to obtain a marriage license.
Wedding on the Water
Whether your perfect day includes sun dresses and flowered shirts or underwater adventures, an unforgettable excursion awaits you aboard Tropical Sailing’s state-of-the-art catamarans. Offering four distinct 3-hour tours, opportunities to set sail to their reef destination for a captivating snorkel tour where you and your guests can get up close with coral formations, exotic marine life, and colorful tropical fish. The trip includes beer, wine, soft drinks, snorkel equipment and instruction. For land lovers, the Barefoot Elegance package offers an ocean sailing to Dr. Von D. Mizell-Eula Johnson State Park, a 253-acre barrier island, which offers a broad flat beach providing a perfect spot for your oceanfront event. This astounding beachfront park preserves some of south Florida’s vanishing natural resources where a beachside picnic, volleyball, kayaking, canoeing and other exciting games.
For the adventurous couple and wedding party crew, hop aboard a kayak or paddle board during Park & Ocean’s Friday evening Sunset Tour at Hugh Taylor Birch State Park. Paddle along an ancient and freshwater Coastal Dune Lake enjoying the stunning casts of our South Florida sunsets while you say I do. Priced at $35 per person, with a discount for tandem kayaks, you can opt to celebrate your union with dinner under the hammocks and take advantage of the Starlite Dinner option, where the select menu with choice of Craft Cocktail or Beer can be added on for $19.99 per person.
If winding down the waterways with a bottle of wine is more your speed, Intimate Waterway Tours Wine Cruise package may be the perfect reception setting following your dockside nuptial. Conveniently sailing from Bahia Mar Fort Lauderdale Beach, the 90-minute private cruise aboard the 22 ft Bay Island electric powered Duffy features ample cabin space and a covered top with optional full-enclosure crystal clear windows for those notorious south Florida sprinkles. The Bluetooth radio with deluxe speakers, on-board fridge and table space keep the music, food and wine flowing. Priced at s a $259.95 inclusive for up to 6 guests due to capacity restrictions, includes to 2 bottles of wine and catering services available to start you off on this intimate excursion.
Ceremonies with Natural Flair
If you are looking for an intimate outdoor location, you will find several picturesque places to exchange your vows at the beautiful Bonnet House Museum & Gardens. Embodying old-world charm and understated elegance the beautiful tropical and subtropical landscape seemingly transport you back in time as you start your future together. For those seeking a true experience, with a supporter gift at the $5,000 level you can experience a Night at the Museum Dinner, a private dinner for eight, on the veranda which includes an individually tailored menu that could include scrumptious lobster and full open bar. Couples who would like to spending their wedding night can also opt for the Night at the Museum Sleepover. This very rare opportunity includes overnight accommodation for two in the newly refurbished Bonnet House bridal suite, dinner for two as mentioned above, and breakfast in the morning along with Bloody Mary’s and mimosas! For more information, contact David Woodin at 954-703-2608.
Located across the street from Fort Lauderdale Beach, Birch State Park features mature trees that canopy every turn. Birch is an ideal setting for the boho-chic bride or the rustic-beard toting groom looking for a natural woodsy location in the heart of the big city. No need to go far after the ceremony, have our team set up your reception in one of the two open picnic areas around the tree to continue your outdoor vibe. With lights crisscrossing overhead you and your guests will feel as though they left the city and are dancing under the stars deep in the country. The park is open from 8 a.m. until sundown, 365 days a year and for the cost of parking ($6 per vehicle/max. 8 per vehicle), this budget friendly option offers a lush setting beyond compare.
Luxurious and Chic Wedding Retreats
Set yourself up for a sweet life together by booking a three-night, Suite Life getaway for two in an ultra-luxury residence at Conrad Fort Lauderdale Beach. Indulge in a ultra-luxury residence at Conrad Fort Lauderdale Beach and be treated to a gourmet island kitchen with designer appliances, separate Master bedroom with a five fixture bathroom, an abundance of natural light in your sun-soaked living room and panoramic views from your private balcony or terrace. When you book A Suite Life package, you can enjoy: $100 nightly resort credit to enjoy beachside dining at Takato, poolside cocktails at Spinnaker and more.
Couples looking for a change of scenery in a relaxed and refined setting will find their match made in heaven along with renowned personalized attention by the ladies and gentlemen at The Ritz-Carlton, Fort Lauderdale. Here you will find a touch of glamour borrowed from the 40s and 50s in a setting which pays homage to the yachting capital of the world with an elevated pool inspired by a ship’s bow. Florida Residents considering a change of scene to start their journey of matrimonial bliss will find the Florida Resident rate starting at $209 /night through March 31, an affordable luxury hard to resist.
Please check with each individual business for any restrictions, blackout dates or other changes due to Covid-19 for applicable offers referenced in this article.
