travel trends, destination spotlight, holiday homes

Weddings on the Emerald Coast

Published on Dec 28, 2021

Turning beach wedding dreams into reality.

Is the wedding of your dreams filled with white sand beaches and gently crashing waves? After this past year, we’re willing to bet everyone on your list will say yes to a destination wedding.

couple on the beach wedding dress

The Emerald Coast is a gorgeous location for your wedding. It’s famous for its white-sand beaches, the deep blue and emerald green of the Gulf, and the world-renowned architecture and beach towns that comprise 30A. Plus, it’s an easy drive for most folks.

Now, first things first: You must have a Florida wedding license to get married in Florida. Be sure to check with the Clerk of Court (www.waltonclerk.com/marriage) on timelines and required documentation for your wedding license.

On to the fun: Where to exchange those vows? We offer a selection of luxurious homes in Seacrest Beach, Grayton Beach, Dune Allen Beach, Miramar Beach, and Destin that are wedding friendly. 
Many couples like to use their beach home as a backup option in case of bad weather. 
Even if you are determined to wed on the sandy beach, having a backup plan is wise. Florida weather can change in an instant.

Our selection of homes varies, with many offering outdoor courtyards, private pools, breathtaking views, and deep porches as alternative venues if the wind grows too strong or the rain pours down.

And remember, unless you are marrying in a private resort, you must exchange vows at a public beach access.

Destin and Miramar Beach offer loads of entertainment options, while the beaches of 30A tend to be a bit more low-key. Each 30A beach town has a unique personality. For example, Grayton is beloved by locals for its laid-back, artsy vibe, while Seagrove is popular with families because of its proximity to everything.

Has a particular beach community like Seaside, Alys Beach, or Rosemary Beach caught your eye? Private resorts offer their own wedding packages, a selection of approved vendors, and different home rental requirements.

 

 

wedding rings in sand

Are you a bit more DIY? Visit South Walton has created a helpful spreadsheet of 30A’s public beach accesses that includes parking information, if weddings are allowed at that location, and more.

And, since we’re looking at lists, here’s a beach vendor list that our friends at Visit South Walton have compiled.

Are you feeling stressed? Don’t! There are wonderful wedding planners in South Walton and Destin who live and breathe beach weddings. They can help you select photographers, recommend caterers, and help navigate the logistics of that dreamy “I do” by the shore.

Remember, after the planning and the thinking and the celebrating, it comes down to this: Two people who love each other. It’s as simple and as complicated as that. At 360 Blue, we’re here to make your stay as luxurious as possible with amenities and experiences you won’t find anywhere else.

We can’t wait to help you celebrate your wedding day.