Not So Basic Beach Weddings

The exceptionality of an Emerald Coast wedding   

By Rebecca Padgett Frett

A stunning sunset alights upon you and your spouse as you pose for newlywed photos. Coastal weddings have not wavered in preference for this very reason; one of the most beautiful days of your life is made all the more beautiful by the setting. 

While coastal weddings will remain among the most coveted spots for couples to wed, there’s a unique appeal to the Emerald Coast. 

These beaches are relaxed yet refined. The Gulf and local waterways are charming with pockets that emphasize untouched nature. 

The feel is less commercial and more local, where hotels, resorts, and venues don’t view your event as just another beach wedding. 

Set the Scene 

When selecting your ceremony and reception spots, you should consider both your wants and needs. 

If you want a toes-in-the-sand ceremony and a property that has multiple reception spaces, a resort or hotel would be a great option. Additionally, resorts can typically host all of your attendees while providing amenities to be enjoyed the entire wedding weekend. 

When speaking of Hilton Sandestin Beach Golf Resort & Spa, Angela Kramer, wedding sales manager, says, “Couples can incorporate details like customized menus, bridal party spa treatments at Serenity by the sea Spa, sunset beach ceremonies, and private dinners at Seagar’s Prime Steaks & Seafood to make the celebration feel more personal to them and their guests.” 

If you don’t want to be on the beach but would still love water views, consider a waterside or bayfront venue. 

“While we are not beachfront, our position along the bay offers a quieter, more refined alternative where the water feels expansive, serene, and ever-present,” says Kristin Sullivan, general manager of The Alice in  Destin. “The natural beauty of the setting allows us to create an elevated coastal experience that feels intimate, understated, and effortlessly elegant.” 

Most venues have at least a couple of different options to choose from, ranging from on the beach, a deck overlooking the water, windowed spaces with coastal views, quaint chapels, or spacious ballrooms. 

“Sandestin Golf and Beach Resort naturally offers a beautiful coastal backdrop, with open beach views, soft natural colors, and plenty of room for a ceremony to feel special without overdoing it,” says Korey McCaffrey, director of marketing and communications at Sandestin Golf and Beach Resort. 

Although it is the Sunshine State, a thunderstorm could roll in quickly. It’s wise to ensure your venue has a rain plan that suits your needs. 

All In the Details 

While we encourage couples to lean into themes and color palettes they love, there is a certain aura and atmosphere to the Emerald Coast that would be beautiful to lean into for your nuptials. 

“Details such as custom florals, intentional color palettes, and lighting can completely elevate the setting. Café lighting, for example, creates such a warm, romantic ambiance as the evening begins,” says McCaffrey. 

From the sugar-white sand to the stark white walls of Alys Beach, a neutral color palette aligns with the vibe of the region. For pops of color, add a light emerald to represent the waves and a pale beach and soft sky blue for sunset ambiance. 

Your florist will delight in pairing both tropical and native Florida offerings, such as orchids, eucalyptus, palms, and monstera, alongside white florals and greenery. Surround the florals with pearls, coral, sea glass, and oyster shells on a table lined with jute or drapery that sways in the coastal breeze. 

Light an outdoor space with sea lanterns, tall, tapered candles, rattan fixtures, string lights, or tiki torches. Decorate bar or lounge spaces with surfboards or paddleboards or a beach Jeep to pose with. Serve tropical drinks in fun glassware, and nosh on a menu of fresh Gulf oysters, shrimp cocktail, seafood towers, crab cakes, grilled fish with mango salsa, or lobster ravioli. 

Immerse in Experience 

“We are seeing a shift away from the traditional pretty ceremony on the sand toward something far more immersive,” says Sullivan. “Today’s couples are seeking curated, design-forward experiences that feel personal, relaxed, and deeply connected to the setting.” 

This could include fresh coconut water served via coconut at the ceremony and followed by beach-themed specialty cocktails or mocktails at the reception; an acoustic performance of beach-inspired music to lure dancers to the sand or dance floor; or a live painter who captures the sunset on your wedding day for you to keep forever. 

When at the beach, couples are extending the wedding experiences to weekend-long celebrations to further treat their guests and themselves. 

“Many celebrations now include beachfront welcome parties, sunset receptions, rehearsal dinners, beach bonfires, spa gatherings, and curated group activities,” says Kramer. “We’re also seeing increased interest in wellness-focused offerings, including spa treatments, couples’ massages, beach yoga, and relaxation-focused amenities incorporated throughout the celebration.” ▪

Featured photo by Sydney Faith Photography