Key Largo Lighthouse Shutdown
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Is the Key Largo Lighthouse Going to Shut Down?

Will the Key Largo Lighthouse Shut Down?? The very popular Destination Wedding Venue, The Key Largo Lighthouse, has apparently won it’s battle against the County to continue to book weddings at it’s venue. 

For now, it seems the Key Largo Lighthouse has found a loophole in the local law for allowing a private house to operate as a commercial business. 

This comes off as A huge success to those who work in the industry as wedding vendors. Or to others who operate as a vacation rental that does Destination Weddings. 

The big question remains with local representatives and county officials, is how long will it last?  

The Key Largo Lighthouse

The Key Largo Lighthouse is a popular Beach Wedding Venue in the Florida Keys. Known for it’s powerhouse of doing 2 weddings a week, at 2 different locations, Coral Beach and Hidden Beach. 

Ordered Shut Down on February 2018

In February of 2018, the county brought fourth a code compliance and opened a case against the Key Largo Lighthouse, stating that the Beach House Wedding Venue operated as a commercial wedding venue in a prohibited residential zone. 

This all started to snowball back in 2014. When the Lighthouse had been doing 2 weddings a week. Local neighbors would call and complain about noise and how it is ongoing everyday. 

Neighbors Chime in on the Key Largo Lighthouse Shut Down situation

Neighbors also stated how this was a lifetime sentence to loud music and disturbing noise in what was supposed to be their retirement home. 

However, some neighbors we’re a little more sympathetic, stating that the Lighthouse created and sustained wedding vendors for people that live in the Florida Keys. 

Additional Requests Denied

In February of 2019, the judge then denied the continuation of booking weddings at the Key Largo Lighthouse and would be subject to a $15,000 fine. 

On September of 2019,  The Key Largo Lighthouse’s third request to continue to book weddings was also shut down. 

Victory for Local Wedding Venue

On November 7th, of 2019. A local judge ordered the appealing to be Quashed, stating that the Key Largo Lighthouse was to remain booking weddings under the vacation rental license.  

This is a huge Victory for local houses and vacation rentals who want to book weddings at their private beach houses. 

Related News Articles

Related News Articles detailing the facts of local hearings and magistrates. 

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If you are getting married in the Key Largo or Islamorada area, then looking at the Top 12 Rehearsal Dinner Options for the Upper Keys could come in handy when deciding where and how to choose. 

If you have already picked out your Florida Keys Wedding Venue, then Finding a Florida Keys Rehearsal Dinner shouldn’t be complicated. We should look at having a low key casual type dinner with family and friends coming. Most rehearsal dinners are usually at a nearby restaurant. A nice ambiance with lighting and cold drinks should do the trick just right. 

HELPFUL TIPS

  • Try not to choose a rehearsal dinner option, that is going to be nicer than your wedding venue
  • If getting married on the oceanside, choose a bayside dinner and vice versa
  • Your rehearsal dinner should be casual, your wedding should be more upscale
  • For Destination Weddings, Include the Rehearsal Dinner on your “Save the Date Cards” 
  • Avoid alot of traveling to and from hotel to rehearsal dinner

Top 12 Rehearsal Dinner Options for the Upper Keys

#1.) Big Chill - Key Largo - Bayside

Located at Mile Marker 104 on the Bayside, Jimmy Johnsons Big Chill is great For our Top 12 Rehearsal Dinner Options for the Upper Keys. The Big Chill has numerous locations for seating. Indoor, outdoor, deck, and patio. They have multiple bars and can accommodate any style you’re looking for.  They can do off the menu or a preset menu of choice. They usually have wonderful live music options as well! The atmosphere and ambiance is nice and casual and the staff is always friendly! Located on the Water with Nightly Sunsets.

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#2.) Sundowners - Key Largo - Bayside

Upper Keys Rehearsal Dinner

Located at Mile Marker 104 on the Bayside, Sundowners is a great option for a Florida Keys Rehearsal Dinner option. Sundowners has multiple options for seating from a large pavered point, a covered wooden deck, or inside dining options. They can accommodate off the menu or a preset menu of choice. They usually have wonderful live music options as well! This place has wonderful views, amazing food, and a great staff! Located on the Water with Nightly Sunsets. 

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#3.) Skippers Dockside - Key Largo - Oceanside

Located at Mile Marker 100 on the Oceanside, Skippers Dockside is a great option for a Florida Keys Rehearsal Dinner. This Restaurant has indoor, outdoor, and tiki hut seating available. This is a great vibed restaurant that is situated on a canal waterway watching the boats come in and out of the ocean. They have great food, fire pits, and live music. Definitely sets the mood for a Florida Keys Wedding. 

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#4.) Snooks - Key Largo - Bayside

Located at Mile Marker 99 on the Bayside, Snooks is a very popular restaurant here in the Florida Keys. Their fun and laid back vibe atmosphere make a great rehearsal dinner option. They have outdoor seating and covered outdoor seating underneath their tiki hut. They have multiple bars and bring in the sunset with their iconic Sunset Horn every night. They have live music every night and can accommodate off the menu or preset dinner menu options.  Located on the Water with Nightly Sunsets. 

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#5.) Snappers - Key Largo - Oceanside

Located at Mile Marker 94 on the Oceanside, Snappers is definitely a locals favorite restaurant and makes our Top 12 Rehearsal Dinner Options for the Upper Keys. With wonderful live music options, fresh food, and great staff, this places makes for a great Florida Keys Rehearsal Dinner option. 

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#6.) Finn & Juice Bar - Tavernier - Oceanside

Finn and Juice Lounge Rehearsal Dinner

Finn & Juice Bar, located in Tavernier, is a wonderful location to choose for your rehearsal dinner. The laid back beach luau vibe gives a great kickoff vibe to your Destination Wedding Event. Located in the Marina Cut, it has great views of the water, mangroves, and fishing boats. They always have updated and hip beer and wine products and their food is just as good. 

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#7.) Marker 88 - Islamorada - Bayside

Located at Marker 88, Marker 88 restaurant is a great place for a Florida Keys Rehearsal Dinner option. This restaurant has a Keys style that makes the atmosphere very nice, yet upscale. They have indoor, outdoor, and beach seating that can be made available. They have live music every night, and can set the mood for your Florida Keys Wedding. Located on the Water with Nightly Sunsets. 

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#8.) Whale Harbor - Islamorada - Oceanside

Located at Mile Marker 83, the Whale Harbor Seafood buffet is definitely a place to look at for a Florida Keys Rehearsal Dinner. Whale Harbor is the home of the world famous Seafood Buffet. They have indoor, outdoor, and beach seating available. A great vibe with a Keys Casual dining option. They can accommodate any style that you are looking for.

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#9.) Lorelei - Islamorada - Bayside

Located at Mile Marker 82, Lorelei is a very popular Islamorada Rehearsal Dinner Location. It offers dinner and live music, sunsets, and a great ambiance. A fishermans restaurant, this property sets the mood for an Islamorada Wedding. Laid back and casual atmosphere, this property can accommodate off the menu or preset menus for dinner. 

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#10) Fish Company - Islamorada - Bayside

Located at Mile Marker 81, The Islamorada Fish company is a great option to consider for your Florida Keys Rehearsal Dinner option. This property has outdoor and tiki hut seating available. Known for their Fresh Fish and Frozen drinks, this place offers a laid back keys atmosphere with tarpon feeding and live music! Located on the Water with Nightly Sunsets. 

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#11.) Morada Bay - Islamorada - Bayside

Florida Keys Rehearsal Dinners

Located at Mile Marker 81, Morada Bay is more of an upscale restaurant for the Florida Keys. This fine dining establishment is located on the bayside with nightly sunsets, live music, and very romantic ambiance with lighting. If having a more upscale wedding, consider Morada Bay for your destination wedding rehearsal dinner. 

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#12.) Lazy Days - Islamorada - Oceanside

Located at Mile Marker 79, Lazy Days is a wonderful Rehearsal dinner option. Known for their food, this restaurant has wonderful entree items and they can accommodate a custom menu. With indoor or beach seating available, this place can make a great start to your Florida Keys Wedding. The vibes are laid back with keys casual fine dining. 

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Welcome Ladies and Gentleman for the most commonly asked question. What to do when it rains for your outdoor wedding? This is never the first or second question, this question usually pops up at the end of giving a tour or doing an initial talk with the venue or wedding planner, BUT, it is always asked and brought up about. 

All Inclusive Beach Wedding Packages

Sure, Everyone plans for perfect weather. While most topics write and prepare us for how to plan for an outdoor wedding, very few talk about what to do when it actually starts raining the day of your wedding. 

A great feeling to rest assure in, is most of our rain is not torrential downpours, but more of a quick spurt of rain that usually lasts for less than an hour (Most Times) 

BE PREPARED AND ALWAYS HAVE A PLAN B!!!

Almost 75% of the Available Wedding Venues in the Florida Keys will be outdoor space only. And some of the most affordable wedding venues will have no indoor space. If you are reading this before your wedding day, we should still look at preventative measures. 

You should always have two plans know matter what the outcome is. 

PLAN A

Great Weather

PLAN B

It's Going to Rain

Here is a list of the top 6 things to consider and think about when planning for an outdoor wedding or what to do if it's starting to rain on your wedding day. 

#6 Consider Renting a Tent Before the Wedding

Florida Church Reception Locations

While Hindsight is always 20/20, there are preventative measures we can take to ensure our wedding goes off without a hitch. If you chose or are considering choosing an outdoor wedding venue. A tent should definitely be in your budget. It doesn’t have to be a lavish clear top tent with gold chandeliers, but consider a nice tent with draping and some lighting. A tent, in the event it doesn’t rain, still provides a nice look when you are on the property arriving for your wedding and shade coverage . You can check out the costs of renting a tent here.

***Helpful Tip***

During a storm that might bring heavy rain, use sidewalls for your tent, do not sidewall the entire tent, instead, use a U Shape or L for your sidewalls to the direction of the rain this will offer a nice air flow inside the tent. 

#5 Ceremony During Rain

With today’s radar technology, seeing if and when it might rain has gotten better than ever. If your heart is set for a outdoor ceremony, pushing ceremony times earlier or back depending on radar might be your best bet. If your ceremony time is at 5pm, and showers look like they might hit at 5:10pm, but all of your guests are there at 4:30pm, then run with it. Be ready and as soon as your guest arrive start the ceremony. On the flip side, if your ceremony is at 5pm and showers look like 5:10pm, Then direct your guests to shelter and offer drinks until the rain passes. Everyone is understanding with days like this and your guest’s will not mind a drink in their hand while they wait. If there is know chance of neither the above and you have no indoor back up space then using that back up tent will come in handy. Your Day of Coordintor will direct guests and help you make this decesions 

#4 Put the Bar, DJ, and Dance Floor Close Together

In your Plan B execution, we should look at putting these three ingredients together. Your guests are still looking to have fun, they are still going to dance and make the most of this special day. As long as you have a smile on your face I promise rain is not going to stop the fun and drinks. The bar, DJ and Dance floor should be in the same tent area, Put them all close together to avoid having your guests travel far distances in the rain from each direction in the event that it rains. 

***Helpful Tip***

Place your Wedding DJ in the corner of your tent therefore if it does not rain then all the DJ needs to do is point his/her speakers out and then you still have the option of dancing under the stars. 

#3 Extra Touches you can Purchase

We do have some local stores on every Island that someone can run by and puchase some extra umberllas for your guest’s. You can also ask your wedding venue, most have extra in hand or in the hotel rooms that they offer to guest’s. You can also purchase in advance clear umbrellas which will make for great photos. 

#2 Listen to Your Wedding Planner

Chances are, your Florida Keys wedding planner is no stranger to rain at a wedding. If they have been doing this long enough, they will know what to do, where to do it, and have already prepared for this scenario. 

#1 Have Fun and Enjoy the Moment

It is ok to be upset, no one wishes for rain. But if it happens don’t let it ruin your special day, Breathe in and smile, have some drinks and dance the night away !! Every Wedding that we have been a part of, when it rained, turned out to be a really fun event. Don’t show your guests that you are stressed in anyway. Have fun and enjoy your wedding. Rain or Shine. 

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From Tropical to Magical!

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How to have a Beach House Wedding in Florida.

Let’s get right to it. You’re searching and browsing the web looking for that perfect wedding venue and you stumble across a beach house that has done some weddings in the past and you’re curious on How to have a Beach House Wedding in Florida

After fumbling and stumbling through all of the different Wedding Venue Options, Resorts, Barns, Country Clubs, Farms, Churches, Chapels, Cottages, and whatever else label to hit you with, you stumble across a Beautiful Beach House that has the option to do your wedding there. 

Almost every couple that we encounter, their first thought is How to have a Beach House Wedding in Florida. A Beach House Wedding is one of sheer anxiety. Especially if you are doing a destination wedding. The thought of building a complete wedding from the ground up, a blank canvas so to speak, can be somewhat terrifying. 

Not Only is it possible to have a Beach House Wedding, It most likely is more affordable!

Weighing the Cost!

Beach House Wedding Venue

I think this topic is the one that most couples sit down and talk about. How much is a Beach House Wedding going to cost us? 

First and Foremost, We need to understand that there is someone who owns this wedding venue, they want to make money off of the property, and it is a beautiful destination. They are interested in getting paid for the property. They usually could care less about which vendors you may hire and why.  

This is a great thing for you! You now have the option and the opportunity to bring in all of your own wedding vendors or use an all inclusive wedding package.  

While some resorts, barns, country clubs, or whatever other venues we listed above, charge a reasonably small site fee, the house is going to be a larger chunk of your budget right off the bat. However, it does include the accommodations for “X” amount of time that you are staying there. 

After the house cost, you are free to plan accordingly. While most other types of venues will charge for per person for Catering, Bar, rentals, and more. You can find much less options based on the competition in your area. 

Who typically does a Beach House Wedding?

How to have a Beach House Wedding in Florida can also bring the question of “Is this right for us?” Beach House Weddings can range. We have seen 25 person weddings to 250 person weddings at a beach house. 

The idea and the concept is still the same. We are renting out a private wedding venue, going to bring in rentals, food, and beverage, and have the funnest time of our life. 

How to Have a Beach House Wedding

How to have a Beach House Wedding in Florida

This is where it gets fun and differs ourself from the usual cookie cutter wedding that we all tend to see. 

With almost all of our beach house wedding venues, there are Three Options to really choose from. We can have a Midweek Wedding, A Weekend Wedding, or a Week Long Extravaganza! 

  • Weekend Stays
  • Midweek Stays
  • Week Long Stays

Midweek Wedding

Perfect for those that maybe budgeting. Midweek Weddings offer incredible discounts for the same exact wedding that you would have on a Saturday! Most Destination Wedding Venues Require a 2 night minimum rental for the midweek.  Still more than plenty of time compared to a 4 hour Wedding you would try to have at most resorts. 

Weekend Wedding

The most common is our Weekend Wedding Options. A Destination Wedding having your guests come down and enjoy the Florida Beaches and atmosphere. This weekend will be remembered for a lifetime! Most require a 3 Night Weekend with tons of time for rehearsal dinner, ceremony, reception, brunch, and all sorts of excursions in between.

Week Long Stay

The Good thing about the week long options that we offer, is that it’s really only just you and your closest guests, or maybe even after a couple days, just you and your newly wed! Most week long options are private estates that sleep 14-16 guests. While your guests stay for the weekend, they will usually leave, and having you and your fiance for the remainder of the week to indulge in luxury!

Why you have a beach house wedding

Beach House Weddings

So we covered that having a Destination Wedding is doable, lets focus and why and who chooses to have a Destination Wedding! 

Family & Friends

If it isn’t obvious! Family and Friends will be attending the wedding. How awesome for those loved ones to come and spend your wedding day with you in a tropical caribbean paradise. A wedding that your guests will talk about for a lifetime! 

Weather & Activities

Your guests are dying for a reason to get out of town! Invite them on the trip of the century with fishing, boating, and diving activities. The weather is always warm and inviting. Unlike the mainland, our South Florida Destination Wedding Venues rarely see much rain here in the Florida Keys. Most Wedding Venues come included with paddle boards and kayaks. 

Caribbean Destination without the passport

One of the best things about our venues. Is that we are still located in the United States. No passport is required and most of all of our venues are conveniently located less than a 1 hour drive from the airport. Arrive, unpack, and party! 

Browse Beach House Wedding Venues

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A Step By Step Guide on How to Elope in the Florida Keys - Destination Weddings

How to Elope in the Florida Keys – Florida Keys Destination Weddings. If you are looking for a small wedding or wanting to learn how to elope in the Florida Keys. Let us help you be your guide. 

The Florida Keys is a huge Destination Wedding Location! People from all over the world choose to get married in the Florida Keys every day! 

If you are looking for a Florida Elopement Packages, we have plenty of packages to choose from that come with photography, officiant, decor, and more!  

Florida Elopement Packages

Step 1: Finding the Venue

The first step in planning for your Elopement is to find a suitable venue that you and your spouse can agree on. Almost everyone chooses to elope in the Florida Keys because of the scenery, the tranquil beaches, and the relaxing vibes. 

Some Wedding Venues like large hotels, will charge for a site fee to have the wedding on their location. We are going to skip those for now, and look at some affordable destination wedding venues to choose from. 

The best wedding venues for small and intimate elopements are going to be at a ceremony only wedding venue. Something that doesn’t cost anything and free for everyone. Keep in mind, at these locations, it is public, so there will be other people around depending on the time of day and season. 

Some popular venue locations include Rowells Park, Far Beach in John Pennekamp,  Harry Harris Park, Founders Park, Anne’s Beach, Sombrero Beach Park, Ft. Zachary Park, and Smathers Beach. 

Step 2: Finding Someone to Marry You

Officiants can get booked up rather quickly. So making sure you have a wedding officiant is ideal. 

You can browse some of our wedding officiants here. 

After choosing or selecting your wedding officiant, it is nice to have an idea of vows and ceremony samples that you are interested. A popular page to get ideas and inspiration are at Officiant Erics. 

While ideas of ceremony and style can be change depending on what you want. We have at least nailed down are two major items off the list. Things like sand ceremony, or tying the knot, or wine ceremony can all be discussed later. 

Step 3: Booking your photographer

Often we get a mix of couples who can go either way on photography. They want the absolute best, or they really don’t mind if a photographer is there or not. 

You can browse some of our wedding photographers here. 

Keeping mind that photographers get booked pretty quickly. Great photographers charge roughly around $500 per hour. 

30 Minutes to 1 Hour of Photography is all you should really need for an elopement. 

Step 4: Obtaining your Marriage License

We have written a very nice article on How to Obtain your Marriage license. 

When arriving to the Florida Keys, stopping by a clerks office to obtain your marriage license is one of the first things that needs to be done. Keep in mind, the Clerks office is closed on Saturdays and Sundays. 

Once you have the marriage license in hand. You should give that to your officiant. They can sign it and either give it back to you for you to file, or you can have them file the license.  

All Licenses must be filed in the county you applied for. If you filed in Monroe, the license must go back to Monroe. 

Congratulations!

That is really all that is needed to have an Elopement in the Florida Keys. 

Something to Think About!

Every Florida Keys Elopement that we have done, or been a part of, one thing is common. They are mostly all laid back. Do not stress on little things of importance, instead, be excited about having your wedding. 

If Dressing up in Suits and Ties, Let your officiant know ahead of time to give him an idea of your attire. 

Getting additional Decorations such as Flowers can be done at a local Florist and cakes can be done by a local baker or even publix. 

If you have any questions, feel free to contact us. We have done over 500 weddings and elopements here in the Florida Keys and can guide you based on any style or any budget! 

Contact Us

Browse Elopement Packages We Offer

High Tide Package

Our Popular Elopement Package only $899
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Mangrove Package

Our Popular Elopement Package only $699
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Sunset Wedding Venues in the Florida Keys

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Cover Photo by Photo Designs by Natalie

Every Wedding here in the Florida Keys is special. Whether choosing an Oceanside Destination Wedding Venue or a Bayside Wedding Venue. You can be assured that your wedding is going to have a beautiful picturesque backdrop.  Once the Sun Sets on the horizon, the array of colors goes from both sides of our Island and captures colors and silhouettes like we have never seen before! 

With that Being Said, There are some beautiful Sunset Wedding Venues here in the Florida Keys that get to capture the Sun touching the horizon, if lucky enough, you may be able to see an elusive green flash! 

Check Out Our Top Ten Sunset Wedding Venues in the Florida Keys!

Real Wedding at Bayside Inn Key Largo

Bayside Inn

Key Largo, FL

Photo Credit by Clau Photography

Bayside Inn is first on the list for being one of the closest venues when entering in the Florida Keys. While it may not be necessarily known as a wedding venue per say, this property has everything you need and more to really host a beautiful and magical event. Located on Buttonwood Sound, these sunsets are sure to impress all of your guests. 

Learn More About Bayside Inn
Dream Bay Resort

Dream Bay Resort

Key Largo, FL

Photo Credit by Two Fish Weddings

Dream Bay Resort is the next stop on our list. This affordable wedding venue captivates numerous Sunset Weddings year round. Also located on Buttonwood Bay, the concrete seawall is perfect for ceremony with a backdrop of sailboats, mangroves, and of course, a Florida Keys Sunset Wedding! 

Sunset Wedding Venue at the Hilton Resort Bakers Cay

Bakers Cay Resort

Key Largo, FL

Photo Credit by Florida Keys Photographers

Whether wanting an intimate wedding, an elopement, or a full wedding and reception, the newly rennovated Bakers Cay Resort in Key Largo is sure to impress. With Sunset Wedding Photos like this, it’s no wonder its on our list. 

Florida Wedding Venues

Playa Largo Resort

Key Largo, FL

Photo Credit by Jannette De Llanos Photography

This luxury upscale resort may have everything you want or need, Including a beautiful Florida Keys Sunset. This popular wedding venue generates nightly miracles everyday like this one pictured above. 

Florida Keys Weddings

Pierres

Islamorada, FL

Photo Credit by Greg Poland Photography

Moving our way to Islamorada, FL. This Florida Keys Sunset Wedding Venue is has plenty of scenic views to offer. Scattered with lined mangrove trees all throughout, the Sunsets here bring color and light to a whole new level. 

Bahia Honda State Park

Bahia Honda Key, FL

Photo Credit by Mary Veal Photography

Getting the best of both worlds at this next location. Bahia Honda State Park could quite possibly be one of my favorite places in all of the Keys. The Bridges of old nostalgia, mixed in with fisherman cruising by and a peaceful relaxing atmosphere. Perfect for small intimate weddings, this can be a beautiful Sunset Wedding. 

Hyatt Centric Key West

Key West, FL

Photo Credit by Weddings by Romi

Experience a beachfront paradise at the Hyatt Centric Key West Resort & Spa, a wedding venue located in Key West, Florida. At this boutique hotel, you and your guests will be located right in the historic Old Town. With beautiful Sunset Key and Wisteria Island in the background, these Sunsets make us feel like we are in a far away land! 

Fort Zachary State Park

Key West, FL

Photo Credit by Wishes to Weddings

If browsing a hashtag, #floridakeyssunsetweddings. You will probably find Fort Zachary to be behind alot of them. And for the photo pictured above, you can see why. This popular Key West Wedding Venue is great for elopements and small intimate weddings. 

Key West Sunset Wedding Venue

Casa Marina Resort

Key West, FL

Photo Credit by K Porter Photography

Ok you caught us, this Wedding Venue isn’t on the Gulf of Mexico side, but how can we not put in a beautiful wedding venue that still captures endless Ocean views and still peaking the Sunset behind you? 

Smathers Beach Key West

Smathers Beach

Key West, FL

Photo Credit by Jannette De Llanos Photography

Our last on the list is another Key West Sunset Wedding Venue that captures the sun going down behind us. This venue is great for small intimate weddings as well and can produce amazing sunsets.  

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Florida Keys Style!

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Let’s get right to it. How do we buy alcohol for a Florida Keys Wedding! If you’re looking at a Wedding Venue that is a Resort style venue, chances are, you already have a package that includes alcohol for the day of your wedding. 

For having a Florida Keys Wedding for those types of venues, planning to purchase alcohol shouldn’t really be a topic of concern. If alcohol is already included, then your guests will probably use the cash bar on site to purchase their drinks the days before your wedding. 

But What about a Venue that Doesn't Include Alcohol!

There is where it gets fun, It can be some what challenging to plan for, but that’s why we are here. 

So if you are booked or considering booking at a venue that allows you to bring in your own alcohol, or maybe thinking about an All Inclusive package with us, and bring in your own alcohol, then read below. 

A Wedding Venue that Allows you to bring in your own alcohol can really save you on budget, but how much should we buy. Remember, we are planning for usually a long weekend of fun, not just one night. 

My Past Experience

Before We go through a checklist of what to bring and what not to bring, allow me to use some disclaimers. 

You know your guests better than We do. If you know your guests all drink Titos, then amp up your purchase of the vodka. 

While working countless events behind the bar, I have seen plenty of leftover, and I have seen very creative guests working with what’s left. 

Rehearsal Dinner

For Rehearsal Dinner, I always recommend keeping it Light! Maybe a Beer and Wine menu or having 1 specialty drink. Something like a Rum Runner. We don’t want our guests to be dying in the morning do to over partying. 

Ceremony and Reception

I always recommend bar to be opened after the ceremony. Before the ceremony with an open bar, and getting your guests to sit down is a mission. Our three major crunch times, are directly after ceremony, directly after Dinner, and last call. 

Morning After Brunch

This is usually leftover product, there should be no need to go shopping in the morning. If you planned and purchased correctly, you should be using last amounts of vodka for bloody Mary’s and champagne for mimosas.

Our Purchase List based on 100 guests

Spirits

All Bottles Listed Below are based on 1.75 Liter

  • 6 Bottles of Vodka
  • 4  Bottles of Rum
  • 2  Bottles of Gin
  • 2 Bottles of Tequila
  • 1 Bottle of Scotch
  • 2 Bottles of Bourbon
  • 2 Bottles of Whiskey
  • 1 Bottle of Shooter (Fireball)
  • 1 Bottle of Triple Sec

Beer

  • 4 Cases of Domestic
  • 4 Cases of Import
  • 2 Cases of Local

Wine

  • 1 Case of Chardonnay
  • 1 Case of Savignon Blanc
  • 1 Case of Pinot Noir
  • 1 Case of Cabernet

Mixers

  • (2) 12 Packs of Coke
  • (1) 12 Pack of Diet Coke
  • (1) 12 Pack of Sprite
  • (1) 12 Pack of Gingerale
  • (2) 12 Packs of Tonic
  • (2) 12 Packs of Club Soda
  • (2) Gallons of Orange Juice
  • (1) 6 pack of Pineapple Juice
  • (3) Gallons of Margarita Mix
  • (3) Cases of Water

Fruit and Specialty Liquors

  • 3 Bags of Limes
  • 2 Bags of Lemons
  • 2 Bags of Oranges
  • 1 Large Jar of Cherries
  • 1 Large Jar of Olives
  • 1 Bottle of Peach Schnapps
  • 1 Bottle of Grenadine
  • 1 Bottle of Lime Juice
  • 1 Bottle of Simple Syrup

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Real Weddings in the Florida Keys

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Wedding Venue: Southern Diversion Key Largo

Photography by Jannette De Llanos

This Wedding Venue seems like a kept secret for some reason, maybe not enough exposure or maybe not enough marketing, but man, this Key Largo Wedding Venue is truly something to look at. If you are planning your wedding in the Florida Keys and are still looking for a Destination Wedding Location, check this place out! 

Key Largo Southern Diversoin
Florida Keys Beach House Wedding Venues
Key Largo Southern Diversion

Wedding Ceremony

This Wedding Ceremony was very beautiful. With a 2 piece bamboo wedding arbor with white floral draping, and a small corner bouquet. All guests facing North East for both trees and water backgrounds.  Guests sitting on white chiavari chairs with cushions. 

Top Ten Must Check List Items

We have toured with countless brides, we have managed wedding venues directly (and still do) and after every meeting, after every hand shake, we are always asked this question. 

Is there Anything Else I should be asking?

The question always hits! Every single time. Is there anything else I should be asking and in our heads and our thoughts are, what’s important to you! 

The Wedding Check List

While there are many factors and things to consider, if you are planning your wedding in the Florida Keys, let us try and help you fill out a check list. 

1.) Plan B

If this isn’t on your list, then it should be. It is the most common question we get when touring or giving tours. What happens when it rains? Contrary to what you might think, we normally don’t get a ton of rainfall here in the Florida Keys, if it does rain, it’s usually in the morning for a short while. With that being said, has it ever rained at 5pm. YES! Of course, so what is the plan B. Is there a space for a tent? If so, how big, what are the measurements or how many guests will a tent hold. Is there an indoor space? Make sure to have a plan B just in case. 

2.) Transportation

Most properties here in the Florida Keys are generally pretty small, its the price we pay to live in paradise. So how will your guests arrive, is parking permitted, if so, how many spots are allowed.  View Transportation Vendors. 

3.) Lighting

When you are at your venue, or at least inquiring, take a look around. Do you see lighting? Do they have lighting? If you need lighting, check and see if they have trees or structures to hang lighting. If there are no structures, you may encounter more costs for a vendor to provide structures to hang the lighting as well. Make sure the areas are of importance, the ceremony will most likely not need lighting, stick to dinner, dancing, and cocktail hour areas. 

4.) Locations

Where will ceremony and reception locations be held? At the ceremony area, how many guests will be able to fit? Same question goes for the reception area. 

5.) Catering

Does this venue provide catering? Do they have an all inclusive package? If not, check and see where the chef and catering staff will set up, is it an ideal location? is it in the way? 

6.) Access

Accessing the property should be an important question. Maybe check in time is at 4pm, but that might be to allow the cleaning crew to finish cleaning, maybe the venue will allow your vendors to come in and set up at an earlier time, maybe noon or earlier. The sooner the vendors are there setting up, the sooner peace of mind and excitement begin! 

7.) Restrooms

If you are having more than 50 guests, restrooms should be on your check list. Our the facilities able to handle your amount of guests, should we consider getting an additional restroom. 

8.) Landscaping

Please tell me landscaping doesn’t come at 3pm on Saturday? When does it come. Preferably, we would want landscaping to be done before check in, then maybe a brief sweep the morning of the wedding to make sure photos are perfect! 

9.) Time Limits

All of Monroe County has an ordinance of music to be shut off at 11pm Friday and Saturday and 10pm Sunday – Thursday. Does the event have to end at 11pm? Can we still have some drinks outside or enjoy some cake? What are the time limits? 

10.) Power

Make Sure your wedding venue can accommodate the power thats to be expected. DJ, Caterer, lights, photo booth, band, etc.. There is alot of power to draw for your wedding day. Make sure your venue can handle it and not be shorting out cutting off the DJ during gangam style. 

Summary

There are probably countless items that we should put in here. But we didn’t want to write a top 100 list. Pick out things that are important to you, obvious things are going to be about your budget, pricing, guest list, stipulations, natural disasters, cancellation policies, and things like that. Think of some things and write em down before you tour. Best of Luck, and congratulations on having a Florida Keys Wedding. 

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The Top 6 Most Affordable Wedding Venues in the Florida Keys

If you are looking to find affordable wedding venues in the Florida Keys, you’ve come to the right place! But first, let’s describe “What Does Affordable Mean?” and is it within your budget? 

Define Affordable ?

Usually, Affordable and Wedding or Affordable Wedding Venues aren’t really in conjunction with each other most of the time, and,  if anything, it is the exact opposite when it comes to a Florida Beach Destination Wedding.  

Now we aren’t going to go into a blog like Nerd wallet discussing obvious cheap wedding venues like the Courthouse or Chapel. We are going to stick to desirable Florida Keys Wedding Venues and locations. 

Most Wedding Venues in the Florida Keys will spike up the price whenever you mention the word wedding. Somewhere, somehow, someone wanted to capitalize off two people being in love and it has stuck ever since. 

Don’t Despair, we are here to help you find an affordable wedding venue for your and your partner. 

 Affordable can usually vary depending on one persons budget to another. So here we will strive to focus on price average and price amounts rather than random ball park estimations. 

Before we dive into our Top 6 Affordable Wedding Venues in the Florida Keys, it’s good to know that there are several different types of weddings venues. 

Ceremony Only Locations

Ceremony Only locations are just that. Ceremony Only. These are going to be your most affordable options. Ceremony only locations are usually at some beautiful public beach parks and they require no site fee at all. These options are great for small (25 – 50 Guests)  ceremony only packages and then dinner at a nice restaurant. 

Ceremony & Reception Only Locations

Another Affordable Venue option are ceremony and reception wedding venues. These are great venues because they do not require any accommodations to be booked and everything is done directly onsite. Most Ceremony and Reception locations are going to be at Restaurants located directly on the water. These can be best for guest lists averaging at around 50 – 75. Your average site fee at these locations range from $1,500 – $2,000. 

Beach Resorts

Beach Resorts go into a little less affordable due to having a higher site fee but also there are several factors to include as well. Most beach resorts will require a “per night” stay allowing you and your guests to stay directly on site which can be alot of fun. The resorts will have a higher site fee most likely, but if they allow you to bring in your own wedding vendors, this is where affordable comes in to play. 

Beach Houses

Beach Houses are going to be our least affordable option, however, if you are needing a place to stay, and want to turn your wedding into a long weekend, these popular locations could be a great place. What makes beach houses affordable is that you can have rehearsal dinner, ceremony, reception, and brunch all on site and not have to pay additional site fees. 

Our Top 6 Affordable Wedding Venues

1.) Smathers Beach - Key West, FL

Affordable Beach Wedding at Smathers Beach in Key West, Florida

Ceremony Only Location

  • Cost to Rent Venue: $0

  • Average Cost for Wedding: $1,500 – $3,000

  • Pricing Based on 25 – 100 Guests

Smathers Beach is Ceremony Only Wedding Venue located in Key West, FL. This is a wonderful wedding venue option is perfect for those wanting a little more of an intimate wedding. 

Although this venue is very large, We normally do 25 – 50 Guests on average weddings at Smathers Beach in Key West. 

This Venue Requires No Site Fee and with our All Inclusive Ceremony Packages, we can arrange weddings starting at $1,500 for 25 guests to $3,000 for 100 guests that includes a beautiful wedding arbor, white padded chairs, officiant, photographer, fresh flowers, and more.  That sounds pretty affordable for a wedding! 

Please Know that there is no reception space at Smathers Beach, This would be for ceremony only and having dinner at a local restaurant is usually the preferred method for Reception. 

For more information on Smathers Beach, check out Everything you need to know about having a wedding at Smathers Beach in Key West, or Click the link below to contact us directly about having your wedding here.  

Contact Us To Learn More About This Venue

2.) Sombrero Beach - Marathon, FL

Real Wedding in Marathon at Sombrero Beach

Ceremony Only Location

  • Cost to Rent Venue: $0

  • Average Cost for Wedding: $1,199 – $2,299

  • Pricing Based on 25 – 100 Guests

Sombrero Beach, similar to Smathers Beach in Key West, is another  popular Wedding Venue located in Marathon, Florida. 

This spacious venue is perfect for 50 guests and under. 

This Venue Requires No Site Fee and with our All Inclusive Ceremony Packages, we can arrange weddings starting at $1,199 for 25 guests to $2,299 for 100 guests that includes a beautiful wedding arbor, white padded chairs, officiant, photographer, fresh flowers, and more. 

Please Know that there is no reception space at Sombrero Beach, This would be for ceremony only and having dinner at a local restaurant is usually the preferred method for Reception. 

For more information or if you are interested in having your wedding here at this affordable wedding venue, use the button link below to contact us! 

Contact Us to Learn More About This Venue

3.) Private Estate in Key Largo

Our Top 6 Most Affordable Wedding Venues in the Florida Keys is the Florida Keys Farm!

Ceremony & Reception Only Location

  • Cost to Rent Venue: $500 – $5,000

  • Average Cost for Wedding: $8,000 – $10,000

  • Pricing Based on 50 Guests

This Private Estate is Neslted in the Back Country of the Florida Keys with jaw dropping Sunsets that boasts radiant and vibrant colors like Pink, purple, orange, and maybe even a green flash! 

This wedding venue is perfect for 25 – 50 guests. 

This venues site fee starts at $500 for small elopements and caps at $5,500 for an event with 100 Guests. This venue sets at number 4 on our list do to it’s versatility and budgeting potential! 

With our All Inclusive Package starting at $2,699 for 25 guests, you could be at around $6,200 with this venue with our most average package (Alligator Reef) at $5,499 for 50 guests, this puts this venue hovering around $9,000 for an average wedding.  

Learn More about this venue

4.) Private Resort - Key Largo, FL

Kona Kai Resort Wedding

Beach Resort

  • Cost to Rent Venue: $3,000

  • Average Cost for Wedding: $8,000 – $10,000

  • Pricing Based on 50 Guests

Yes, Renting out your own private resort in the Florida Keys for your Destination Wedding is affordable!! How can that be? Well This Resort allows for the Bride and Groom to just pay a small site fee to have the wedding, while guests book their own lodging. This venue comes equipped with spectacular views of the Gulf of Mexico with gorgeous sunset views every night. 

This wedding venue is perfect for 25 – 50 guests. 

This venues site fee caps at $3,000. Making it number 4 on our list of very affordable beach wedding venues. 

With our All Inclusive Packages starting at $2,699 for 25 guests, you can start off at around $5,699 for a wedding but with our most booked wedding package (Alligator Reef) your average cost is around $9,500. 

Learn More about this venue

5.) Private Resort - Duck Key, FL

Private Beach Resort

  • Cost to Rent Venue: $500 – $5,000

  • Average Cost for Wedding: $8,000 – $10,000

  • Pricing Based on 50 Guests

 Situated on the small private island in the Florida Keys, this destination is the perfect choice for a tranquil and relaxing celebration. Surrounded by beautiful waters and sea life, This Resort can offer an idyllic and romantic location for your nuptials. The venue has plenty of open, outdoor space to utilize. We have kayaks and paddle boards for you to explore the calm waters surrounding the island. You will have a fresh water swimming pool. A boat basin and boat launch is available for your use. The island is surrounded by swimmable ocean, fishing spots, and a nature walk along our peninsula that juts out further into the ocean and leads to a dolphin pool (former home to Flipper!). The island is separated from the Overseas Highway by a private causeway.

This wedding venue is perfect for 50 – 150 guests. 

This venue rents for the midweek or weekend options.  IF you are looking for a destination wedding location, this is what puts this venue on this list.

Having your guests come over for rehearsal dinner, ceremony, reception dinner, dancing, and then coming over to hang out at the pool, kayak, paddleboard, fish, all in a private area, this is a venue that will be talked about for many years to come. 

Learn More about this venue

6.) Private Ceremony & Reception Only Location

Real Wedding Performed in Islamorada at the Fish Company

Private Ceremony & Reception Venue

  • Cost to Rent Venue: $2,500 – $4,000

  • Average Cost for Wedding: $5,000 – $8,000

  • Pricing Based on 50 Guests

We’re definitly not Not saving the best for last. This affordable and romantic beach wedding venue is becoming more and more popular with our couples and it’s easy to see why! Boasting breathtaking sunsets, amazing reception packages, and wonderful views, this affordable venue is definitely one that should be on your viewing list when coming to the Florida Keys! 

This wedding venue is perfect for 50 – 75 guests. 

This venue daily/nightly with the most popular days being Fridays and Saturdays, however, Midweek weddings have started to get really popular as well. 

This venue has charm, character, and a wow factor that will have your guests talking about such a beautiful wedding venue while still being affordable for a Destinatino wedding. 

Learn More about this venue

Other Notable Mentiones

While these are Our Top 6 Most Affordable Wedding Venues in the Florida Keys, below are some notable mentions that didn’t make the list but still offer a great bang for your buck! 

Notable Mentions

La Jolla Resort Islamorada Wedding Venue

Private Resort in Islamorada

This Private Resort located in Islamorada in the Florida Keys sits right on the Gulf of Mexico with beautiful beach sunsets. This property has affordable site fees and accommodation rates to host a beautiful wedding. 

Learn More about this venue
Azul Del Mar

Private Boutique Resort in Key Largo

Famous for its spectacular sunsets, lively coral reefs, and expansive Everglades Park, the Florida Keys are unlike anywhere else in the world. Hidden away from the hustle and bustle of the mainland, we invite you to discover This Private Venue Key Largo, your own private paradise on our eco-friendly island.

Learn More about this venue

Private Resort in Key Largo

This Private Resort is also located on the Florida Bay with amazing Sunset Views. This venue has a site fee of only $1,500 to have an event here and for the view that you get with it, it’s definitely worth taking a look at. 

Learn More about this venue

Didn't see what you're looking for?

While there are many wedding venues to choose from, we feel that these are some great, diverse, and affordable wedding venue options. 

If you didn’t quite see what you were looking for, we have plenty of additional Wedding Venues to choose from in our Wedding Venues collection. 

Browse Our Wedding Venues Collection

We Strive to Meet Your Expectations

We Strive to meet your expectations and fulfill your dream based on any budget. We have elopement packages for up to 10 guests starting at $299 to full All Inclusive Packages with extras going to $15,000 and everything in between. 

If you are stuck on finding a location, or a wedding to fit within your budget, contact us as our team is here to help you every step of the way! 

Contact Us Today!

Learn More About Affordable Wedding Options in the Florida Keys!
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