what is the difference between Wedding Planning vs. Wedding Coordination
Wedding planning begins as soon as the client starts. It includes finding venues and vendors and managing all tasks. In contrast, wedding coordination starts 1-2 months before the wedding day. With coordination, you find vendors, and the coordinator helps review contracts, create layouts and timelines, and manage the wedding day. We offer both wedding planning and coordination, along with elopement packages.
Where Do I Begin?
The first step in planning your wedding is choosing a wedding planner and a venue. About half of my clients already have a venue in mind or booked. It is best to hire your wedding planner first. A local planner knows all the venues and details, helping you with dates, availability, site fees, and food and beverage packages.
What Happens if It Rains?
This is the top question. While you can not control the weather, having a wedding planner helps. First, check if your venue has an indoor backup space. The decision to move indoors is often made the morning of or the day before the wedding based on the forecast. If there is no indoor option, reserving a tent is important. Rental companies are limited in the Florida Keys, and demand for tents can be high. Most rental companies offer "weather backup tents," which require a non-refundable deposit (30-50% of the total cost). You decide 48 hours before the wedding whether to use the tent based on the forecast.
What is the Best Time of the Year to Plan a Destination Wedding in The Florida Keys?
Many couples choose special dates, like their first date or engagement date, for their wedding. In the Florida Keys, it is important to consider the weather and local events. To enjoy cooler weather, avoid July and August. To skip the rainy season, stay away from August and September. The Atlantic hurricane season is from June 1 to November 30, with the highest risk between August 15 and October 15. However, the chances of a hurricane disrupting your wedding are low. For details on special events, visit the official Florida Keys website.
How Do I Schedule the Ceremony Time on my Wedding Day?
This is a great question! In the Keys, it is best to marry before sunset for the best photos and daylight. As a planner, I first check the sunset time for your wedding date, considering daylight saving changes. Then, I confirm the event time with the venue. Some non-resort venues also serve as museums and allow private events only after 4:45 pm, unless it is an elopement. Ideally, we schedule cocktail hour during the golden hour (about 20 minutes before sunset) so the couple can take sunset photos without missing important moments of their wedding or dinner.
What are the Vendors I Have to Consider While Planning a Wedding?
Key vendors include the venue, catering company (if the venue does not provide food and drinks), and rentals. A backup tent is important if there is no indoor option. Rental companies also manage lighting, dance floors, upgraded furniture, and tableware. Other essential vendors are the photographer, entertainment (DJ/MC, live musicians, or a band), and officiant. Florists and designers provide flowers and design elements, with options for those who prefer not to use flowers.