Hailed by TripAdvisor as one of the top beaches in the United States, Clearwater Beach near Tampa offers an extraordinary setting for a destination wedding. Immerse yourself in the island atmosphere, enjoying the soft, pristine white sands, the soothing sounds of crashing waves, and the beauty of the painted skies. Running an event entertainment company in the Gulf Coast Area of Florida has introduced me to brides, grooms, families and friends from all over the United States. We figured we would share some insights and tips to the happy couple from our 15+ years of spinning tunes and capturing moments of beach weddings around the Tampa-St. Pete-Clearwater area
East Coast or West Coast?
When planning a Florida destination wedding, one of the biggest decisions is…well…the destination. As a long time resident of the Gulf Coast, I’m kind of biased. The biggest benefit of a Gulf Coast wedding is the Sunsets!!! Every night you get a fabulous sunset over the calm gulf coast waters, which make for an ultra-romantic setting and great backdrop for photos. The east coast of Florida has the romantic lighting of the “golden hour”, soft pastel skies and the waves of the Atlantic Ocean.
What time of year?
Ideally, you want to come when it’s best for you and your guests. If you’re both teachers and you have the Summer off, a Summer wedding might be ideal. However, Summer in Clearwater Florida is HOT! Be prepared for the heat and plan your tuxedos (think light colors), wedding dress, hair and make-up accordingly.
Planning a beachfront ceremony during the Winter months is a popular choice among our northern couples. The beaches are less crowded and experience less rain. Additionally, winter weddings in Clearwater Beach can be more affordable, with off-season rates for hotels, restaurants, and other services.
With warm, sunny weather and a refreshing breeze during the Spring season, you will be surrounded with beautiful Gulf beach island weather on your Florida wedding day.
While Fall days in Florida are warmer than most, you won’t be as hot as in the summer, but you can still enjoy swimming at the Gulf beaches.
Have a Plan "B"
Even with 240 days of sunshine during the year, Gulf Coast weather can be unpredictable. Make sure your location or venue has a backup plan that you are comfortable with in case of inclimate weather.
Find The Best Venue For Your Destination Wedding
The Clearwater/St. Pete area has a wide variety of venues for your wedding. You can choose a Beach Wedding for a toes-in-the-sand ceremony, a Beach Front Wedding on the property of one of the many beachfront venues, or a traditional wedding at a church with reception to follow at one of Clearwater’s numerous banquet facilities.
Many of the beachfront hotels & resorts provide access to their own beach for ceremonies with a short walk to either the indoor or outdoor reception area for cocktails, dining and dancing.
For additional help on choosing the perfect event venue, check out our Ovations series in our blog for some of our favorite digs!
The Music
Everyone knows that music is essential to any great wedding reception. If your budget allows it, a good DJ that can keep your reception run smoothly, read the crowd and assist you in crafting the perfect soundtrack for the night. In addition, they probably have additional gear, like lighting, backup equipment, logo projections, additional mics to set the atmosphere and keep the celebration going smoothly. Many beachfront resorts have a ‘preferred vendor’ list, where you can choose professionals that have performed there in the past and conform to their rules and regulations and have good standing with the venue.
Boone’s Professional Events is endorsed by many wedding and corporate event venues throughout the area including The Hilton CWB, Wyndham Grand, Hyatt Regency, Isla Del Sol, The Fenway Hotel, The Florida Aquarium and more.
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Ready to Party?
If you’re ready to get started in your Holidy aEvent Entertainment Planning, give us a call. Jeff Boone has over 15 years of experience providing disc jockey, lighting and photo booth services to residents, businesses and visitors of the Tampa/St. Pete area. We have developed great relationships with a lot of event venues and vendors around SW Florida and can help make your planning less stressful. From weddings, birthdays, Mitsvahs, Quince’s and anniversary parties to corporate events, galas, get-togethers and school functions, Boone’s Professional Events can help make your event memorable!