Tips for Planning Your Dream Florida Wedding

Aug 6, 2024 Uncategorized

Beach wedding ceremony with couple at altar, The Scout Guide to tropical vows. — *All photography by Austin Trenholm*.

South Florida is a dream wedding destination for so many reasons. The picturesque landscapes, romantic sunsets, waterfront venues, and, of course, the endless sunshine. Whether you’re planning your special day from afar or you’re a local looking for some insider advice, we’ve covered it all!

Our Associate Editor, Ginger Moxam-Farley, recently planned and celebrated her wedding in Islamorada in the Florida Keys. These TSG-approved tips will make the wedding planning process as smooth as possible. Plus, she’s providing all the Scouted businesses to help you along the way!

1.

Pick the Perfect Wedding Planner

Bride embracing at sunny outdoor setting from The Scout Guide.

Elegant wedding stationery and florals arranged on a leafy backdrop, The Scout Guide style.

While I consider myself to be organized, I knew tackling the wedding planning process would become a second full-time job! I worked with Scouted wedding planners Jacqui and Kathie Resop, the mother-daughter duo at SBS Weddings. From the start, I knew I was in good hands! They took the time to get to know us as a couple and incorporated the most personal touches into our wedding day. As someone who has a chaotic schedule, I appreciated that they handled it all. They are the experts in everything from invitations and decor to the day-of coordination and even vendor contracts.

2.

Get Organized, Early!

I worked with a Naples bridal boutique, Palm Bridal, to select my dress early on. It’s also never too early to pamper yourself and get prepped for your big day! I began skin treatments with Scouted esthetician Karlee Lauren Aesthetics six months out from the wedding to achieve the perfect glow. TSG Tip: Get the tan you plan to have on your wedding day for your hair and makeup trial! I began working with Scouted mobile spray tanner Glow to Go a few months out so there would be no surprises. She tanned my entire wedding party, too! The girls loved having a wedding day glow and I loved that she came directly to my house.

Give yourself plenty of time to reach out to vendors, connect with your venue, and get to know the destination you’re planning to celebrate in. Naples brides, we love a Scouted stay at Hotel Escalante!

3.

Partner with Vendors You LOVE

Woman getting makeup done holding wine, The Scout Guide style.

Bride at doorway holding flowers, smiling, The Scout Guide essence captured.

Curating a team that will bring your wedding day to life is one of the most important parts of planning. I prioritized not only talent and vision but also the energy my vendors would bring to the day. With that in mind, I immediately booked Flora & Fauna, a Scouted florist who I’ve had the joy of working with for corporate events, as well. Scouted photographer Tiffany Maysonet captured our engagement photos in the heart of Naples on Third Street South. For the day of, Austin Trenholm was so much more than just a photographer—he got along seamlessly with our family and friends and even bustled my wedding dress! Adorn Artistry made my entire wedding party feel beautiful inside and out while providing nonstop laughter the entire weekend. I’ve included the full list of my local vendors at the end of this post to reference for your own planning!

4.

Add a Local Touch

My husband and I both grew up, and met, in Naples. We wanted to incorporate our hometown into as much of the wedding as possible! I partnered with local candle company Nokomis Home Fragrance on a custom candle with our wedding logo on the label. I loved knowing guests would return home, light their candles, and instantly transport themselves to an island getaway! Key lime cookies from Kristi’s Key Lime Cookies made for a sweet treat in welcome bags. Create a cherished keepsake by handing off your wedding day perfume bottle to Scouted calligrapher Inked Romance to forever engrave your wedding date or new last name.

5.

TSG Tip: Gift a Guide!

Your guests will love an insider’s look on where to eat, drink, stay, and play during their visit to Naples for your wedding! Reach out to us to inquire about getting copies of The Scout Guide Naples to provide in welcome bags or add into your bridal party gifts.

I truly feel so lucky to have an incredible community of local businesses that helped me bring my dream wedding to life. When it comes to planning your South Florida wedding, local is always the way to go! If you’re looking for personalized recommendations or a few more insider tips, shoot me a DM on social, or send an email here. I would love to chat!

XO,
Ginger