Planning Your Dream Wedding on the Gulf Coast

So, you want to get married on the stunning Gulf Coast—what a fantastic choice! With its emerald blue waters and picture-perfect landscapes, this region provides the perfect backdrop for your special day. But where do you begin? Here’s a location guide to help you choose the best location for your perfect day.

Choosing a Gulf Coast Wedding Location

The first step in planning your Gulf Coast wedding is choosing the right location. The breathtaking waters stretch from Pensacola Beach all the way to 30A, so it’s crucial to select a spot that aligns with your vision and needs.

Pensacola Beach

– Pensacola Beach is the easiest place to have your intimate wedding along the Gulf Coast. If you prefer a more laid-back atmosphere, these beaches might be just the ticket. With ample parking and expansive open spaces, they offer a slower pace and a serene environment perfect for a romantic ceremony. This area offers so much if you enjoy the sound of the seagulls and the untouched coast line. It is the perfect beach to rent a house to act as your wedding venue, then walk out to the beach for your ceremony, and then enjoy a small backyard reception.

Things to know:

You don’t need a permit for the wedding to- just contact the Santa Rosa Island Authority and let them know the date, location, and number of guest. There No open flames or lit tiki torches
No wish lanterns. You can use LED candles so long as they remain grounded
No generators
No glass
No pets outside of designated dog beach areas
No dropping of artificial flower petals or balloon releases
Tents/canopies larger than 10’x12’ require a permit from SRIA and Escambia County

Navarre Beach

Navarre beach is the perfect small beach town along the Gulf Coast for an intimate wedding. It is a quite town without huge crowds and building taking over the beaches. If you want a peaceful wedding, but also want a short drive to a bigger town for a night this is the perfect place. Elope on Navarre

Things to know:

Navarre Beach does require a permit for a wedding. You can contact Navarre Beach Visitor Information Center or an local planner for the wedding permit. No glass No pets allowed on beach No fires

– Destin Beach & Miramar Beach: Known for their stunning views, these locations are busier and have less public access, which is something to consider if you’re planning a larger wedding. If you expect a big turnout of family and friends, parking will be an essential factor to keep in mind. These location don’t lack the beautiful coast line and offer plenty of activties for every one to enjoy.

Things to know:

Wedding permits are required you can contact Okaloosa County for the correct permits. You can recieve your marriage license from the county clerks office or the county courthouse. No glass bottles on the beach.

Walton County

– 30A: For a more exclusive feel, consider the beautiful beach towns along 30A. This area is known for its charming architecture and unique structures, providing a lovely aesthetic for your ceremony. Each town along this stretch has its own character and regulations, so take the time to explore your options. If you prefer the small town charm more and beautiful building more than a secluded beach this is the perfect location.

Things to know:

You must have a Florida marriage license, you can get on in the Clerks of Courts. Every Vendor you have must have the proper permits. (Contact Mercedes Rain Photography Insured and Permitted) Ceremonies can be held at all public beach accesses, if you would like a private access you must have permission from the owner. All weddings require a beach wedding permit through Walton County . Bonfire are allowed on the beach, permits are required and set up by a local company

Know What You Want

Before booking anything, it’s vital to have a clear vision of what you want for your wedding. Take the time to outline your needs, preferences, and the overall vibe you wish to create. This will help ensure that your day is as perfect as you envision.

Getting married on the Gulf Coast is a dream come true for many couples. With its stunning scenery and variety of locations, your wedding day will be unforgettable. By carefully considering your options and knowing exactly what you want, you’ll be well on your way to planning the perfect beach wedding. Happy planning!

Need a wedding photographer

Whether you’re sharing intimate vows barefoot by the water or celebrating with your favorite people in a backyard filled with string lights, I’m there for the genuine emotions, laughter, and sweet connections that unfold throughout your celebration.

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