Wedding

Planning a Destination Wedding in Miami

A destination wedding is a ceremony held away from the couple’s hometown, typically in a picturesque or exotic location. This trend has gained popularity for its unique appeal, combining the wedding celebration with a memorable vacation. Couples often choose destination weddings to create an intimate atmosphere, enjoy a beautiful backdrop, and offer guests a unique experience. Popular destinations include tropical beaches, historic cities, and scenic countryside locations. Miami stands out as a top choice due to its stunning beaches, vibrant culture, and variety of luxurious venues.

Top 10 Wedding Venues in Miami

What to Look for in a Wedding Venue

When selecting a wedding venue, consider the following factors:

Scenery: Beautiful natural or architectural backdrops.
Capacity: Suitable for the number of guests.
Amenities: Availability of facilities such as dressing rooms, catering options, and parking.
Accessibility: Ease of access for guests, especially those traveling from afar.

1. Vizcaya Museum and Gardens

Description: A historic Italian Renaissance-style villa surrounded by lush gardens, offering a romantic and elegant setting.
Unique Features: Lavish interiors, extensive gardens, and waterfront views.
Address: 3251 S Miami Ave, Miami, FL 33129
Contact: (305) 250-9133

2. The Biltmore Hotel

Description: A luxurious hotel with grand architecture and beautiful gardens, perfect for a classic, elegant wedding.
Unique Features: Historic charm, grand ballroom, and golf course views.
Address: 1200 Anastasia Ave, Coral Gables, FL 33134
Contact: (855) 311-6903

3. Fairchild Tropical Botanic Garden

Description: A tropical paradise with stunning landscapes, perfect for a nature-inspired wedding.
Unique Features: Exotic plant collections, butterfly garden, and tropical rainforest.
Address: 10901 Old Cutler Rd, Coral Gables, FL 33156
Contact: (305) 667-1651

4. The Palms Hotel & Spa

Description: A beachfront hotel offering a blend of tropical elegance and relaxed sophistication.
Unique Features: Oceanfront location, lush gardens, and a stunning gazebo.
Address: 3025 Collins Ave, Miami Beach, FL 33140
Contact: (305) 534-0505

5. The Villa Casa Casuarina

Description: Formerly the Versace Mansion, this venue offers opulent design and a glamorous atmosphere.
Unique Features: Luxurious decor, mosaic pool, and historical significance.
Address: 1116 Ocean Dr, Miami Beach, FL 33139
Contact: (786) 485-2200

6. Perez Art Museum Miami (PAMM)

Description: A contemporary art museum offering a unique and modern setting for weddings.
Unique Features: Stunning architecture, waterfront views, and art installations.
Address: 1103 Biscayne Blvd, Miami, FL 33132
Contact: (305) 375-3000

7. The Betsy Hotel

Description: A luxury boutique hotel with an artistic vibe, located on Ocean Drive.
Unique Features: Rooftop terrace, elegant ballrooms, and beach access.
Address: 1440 Ocean Dr, Miami Beach, FL 33139
Contact: (305) 531-6100

8. The Ritz-Carlton Key Biscayne

Description: A beachfront resort offering a sophisticated and tranquil setting.
Unique Features: Oceanfront ceremonies, luxury amenities, and lush gardens.
Address: 455 Grand Bay Dr, Key Biscayne, FL 33149
Contact: (305) 365-4500

9. Deering Estate

Description: A historic estate offering a beautiful natural setting with a touch of old Florida charm.
Unique Features: Historic buildings, bayfront views, and lush gardens.
Address: 16701 SW 72nd Ave, Miami, FL 33157
Contact: (305) 235-1668

10. The Sacred Space Miami

Description: A modern venue focused on wellness and mindfulness, perfect for a contemporary and serene wedding.
Unique Features: Minimalist design, garden areas, and wellness amenities.
Address: 105 NE 24th St, Miami, FL 33137
Contact: (305) 463-4650

Top 10 Caterers in Miami

What to Look for in a Caterer

When selecting a caterer, consider the following:

Menu Options: Variety and customization of menu offerings.
Quality: Taste and presentation of food.
Service: Professionalism and reliability of the catering staff.
Experience: Experience in handling weddings and events.

1. Thierry’s Catering and Event Design

Description: Specializes in elegant, high-end cuisine with a focus on artistic presentation.
Unique Features: Custom menus, innovative dishes, and exceptional service.
Address: 8478 NW 74th St, Miami, FL 33166
Contact: (305) 635-6626

2. Bill Hansen Catering

Description: Renowned for its creative menus and exceptional event planning services.
Unique Features: Customizable menus, top-quality ingredients, and professional service.
Address: 1040 Biscayne Blvd, Miami, FL 33132
Contact: (305) 858-6660

3. Le Basque Catering

Description: Known for its refined French and international cuisine, perfect for sophisticated events.
Unique Features: Elegant presentations, gourmet dishes, and meticulous attention to detail.
Address: 240 NE 71st St, Miami, FL 33138
Contact: (305) 573-4199

4. Eggwhites Special Event Catering

Description: Offers a wide range of culinary styles and custom menus tailored to each event.
Unique Features: Personalized service, diverse cuisine options, and elegant presentation.
Address: 1419 Sunset Harbour Dr, Miami Beach, FL 33139
Contact: (305) 935-8805

5. Constellation Culinary Group

Description: Specializes in creating memorable dining experiences with a focus on quality and innovation.
Unique Features: Creative menus, artistic presentations, and professional service.
Address: 146 Biscayne Blvd, Miami, FL 33132
Contact: (305) 667-9297

6. Aaron’s Catering of the Palm Beaches

Description: Known for its high-quality cuisine and exceptional event services.
Unique Features: Customized menus, professional staff, and attention to detail.
Address: 2700 NW 2nd Ave, Miami, FL 33127
Contact: (561) 704-5227

7. Thierry Isambert Culinary and Event Design

Description: Combines culinary expertise with innovative event design for a seamless experience.
Unique Features: Bespoke menus, creative presentations, and personalized service.
Address: 7640 NW 25th St, Miami, FL 33122
Contact: (305) 635-6626

8. Chef David Schwadron Catering and Event Design

Description: Offers gourmet cuisine and full-service event planning for weddings and special events.
Unique Features: Unique menu creations, elegant presentations, and professional service.
Address: 7171 SW 62nd Ave, Miami, FL 33143
Contact: (305) 238-5881

9. Exquisite Catering by Robert

Description: Known for its diverse menu options and high-quality service.
Unique Features: Customizable menus, gourmet dishes, and professional staff.
Address: 1800 NE 150th St, North Miami, FL 33181
Contact: (305) 622-3663

10. Miami Catering Services

Description: Offers a range of culinary styles and customized menus for weddings and special events.
Unique Features: Personalized service, diverse cuisine options, and professional presentation.
Address: 1250 NW 23rd St, Miami, FL 33142
Contact: (305) 591-8144

Top 10 Wedding Photographers in Miami

What to Look for in a Wedding Photographer

When choosing a wedding photographer, consider:

Style: Look for a photographer whose style matches your vision (e.g., candid, traditional, artistic).
Portfolio: Review their past work to ensure consistency and quality.
Experience: Experienced photographers can handle a variety of settings and lighting conditions.
Personality: Choose someone you feel comfortable with, as they’ll be a big part of your day.

1. KT Merry Photography

Description: Renowned for her timeless, elegant photography style.
Unique Features: Captures candid moments with an artistic touch.
Address: Miami, FL
Contact: (305) 647-2681

2. Jose Villa Photography

Description: Known for his fine art wedding photography and stunning compositions.
Unique Features: Uses natural light to create soft, romantic images.
Address: Miami, FL
Contact: (310) 600-1808

3. Donna Irene Photography

Description: Specializes in capturing the beauty and emotion of weddings.
Unique Features: Offers a blend of candid and posed photography.
Address: Miami, FL
Contact: (305) 333-7749

4. Ambrosio Photography

Description: Known for their creative and modern approach to wedding photography.
Unique Features: Captures unique perspectives and artistic shots.
Address: Miami, FL
Contact: (786) 390-1422

5. Evan Rich Photography

Description: Specializes in destination wedding photography with a focus on storytelling.
Unique Features: Captures genuine moments and emotions.
Address: Miami, FL
Contact: (786) 314-7993

6. Kat Braman Photography

Description: Offers a blend of photojournalistic and artistic styles.
Unique Features: Focuses on capturing the essence of the couple and their story.
Address: Miami, FL
Contact: (561) 246-8326

7. Simply Captivating Photography

Description: Specializes in creating timeless and elegant wedding photos.
Unique Features: Offers personalized photography packages.
Address: Miami, FL
Contact: (786) 942-4209

8. Lara Rios Fine Art Photography

Description: Known for her artistic and romantic wedding photography.
Unique Features: Uses natural light and creative compositions.
Address: Miami, FL
Contact: (305) 586-2695

9. Merari Photography

Description: Captures candid and emotional moments with a natural style.
Unique Features: Focuses on storytelling and genuine emotions.
Address: Miami, FL
Contact: (305) 965-1820

10. Daniel Lateulade Photography

Description: Known for his modern and creative wedding photography.
Unique Features: Captures unique perspectives and artistic compositions.
Address: Miami, FL
Contact: (305) 992-9111

Top 10 Florists in Miami

What to Look for in a Florist

When selecting a florist, consider:

Design Style: Ensure their style matches your vision for the wedding.
Experience: Look for florists with experience in wedding arrangements.
Reputation: Check reviews and ask for recommendations.
Creativity: A good florist should be able to bring your ideas to life while offering their own creative input.

1. Anthology Co.

Description: Specializes in creating bespoke floral arrangements with a modern touch.
Unique Features: Uses unique and exotic flowers.
Address: 3432 NW 7th Ave, Miami, FL 33127
Contact: (305) 283-6047

2. Ever After Floral Design

Description: Offers elegant and romantic floral designs for weddings.
Unique Features: Customizable arrangements tailored to the couple’s vision.
Address: 219 NW 20th St, Miami, FL 33127
Contact: (305) 676-7354

3. Petal Productions

Description: Known for their luxurious and creative floral designs.
Unique Features: Offers full-service floral and event design.
Address: 235 NE 59th St, Miami, FL 33137
Contact: (305) 757-4500

4. The Flower Bazaar

Description: Specializes in creating unique and vibrant floral arrangements.
Unique Features: Offers a wide range of floral styles.
Address: 3038 Grand Ave, Miami, FL 33133
Contact: (305) 441-2181

5. The Bride Candy

Description: Offers modern and stylish floral designs for weddings.
Unique Features: Personalized service and custom designs.
Address: 1100 Biscayne Blvd, Miami, FL 33132
Contact: (786) 577-9279

6. Ines Naftali Floral and Event Design

Description: Known for their elegant and sophisticated floral arrangements.
Unique Features: Offers full-service floral and event design.
Address: 285 NW 26th St, Miami, FL 33127
Contact: (305) 904-0660

7. Avant Gardens

Description: Offers creative and unique floral designs for weddings.
Unique Features: Focuses on personalized service and custom arrangements.
Address: 7220 NW 36th St, Miami, FL 33166
Contact: (305) 597-3673

8. Karla Events

Description: Specializes in creating luxurious and elegant floral arrangements.
Unique Features: Customizable designs tailored to the couple’s vision.
Address: 175 Fontainebleau Blvd, Miami, FL 33172
Contact: (786) 406-9401

9. The Flower Box

Description: Offers modern and stylish floral designs for weddings.
Unique Features: Personalized service and custom arrangements.
Address: 5794 Sunset Dr, South Miami, FL 33143
Contact: (305) 667-5858

10. Suzy Q Flowers

Description: Known for their creative and vibrant floral designs.
Unique Features: Offers a wide range of floral styles and arrangements.
Address: 8300 NW 30th Terrace, Doral, FL 33122
Contact: (305) 471-0900

Top 10 Wedding Planners in Miami

What to Look for in a Wedding Planner

When selecting a wedding planner, consider:

Experience: Look for planners with experience in coordinating weddings.
Reputation: Check reviews and ask for recommendations.
Services: Ensure they offer the services you need, from full planning to day-of coordination.
Personality: Choose someone you feel comfortable with and who understands your vision.

1. Miami Wedding Planner

Description: Known for their personalized and detail-oriented wedding planning services.
Unique Features: Customizable packages and exceptional service.
Address: 1440 Brickell Bay Dr, Miami, FL 33131
Contact: (305) 647-2681

2. Couture Events

Description: Specializes in luxurious and elegant weddings.
Unique Features: Personalized service and attention to detail.
Address: 2750 NW 3rd Ave, Miami, FL 33127
Contact: (305) 890-5706

3. The Creatives Loft

Description: Known for their creative and modern approach to wedding planning.
Unique Features: Offers full-service planning and design.
Address: 765 NW 23rd St, Miami, FL 33127
Contact: (305) 562-7800

4. Haute Couture Events

Description: Offers luxurious and sophisticated wedding planning services.
Unique Features: Customizable packages and exceptional service.
Address: 2121 NW 2nd Ave, Miami, FL 33127
Contact: (786) 247-4411

5. Loli Events

Description: Specializes in creating elegant and stylish weddings.
Unique Features: Personalized service and attention to detail.
Address: 250 NW 23rd St, Miami, FL 33127
Contact: (305) 562-7810

6. Masi Events

Description: Known for their luxurious and elegant wedding planning services.
Unique Features: Customizable packages and exceptional service.
Address: 105 NE 24th St, Miami, FL 33137
Contact: (786) 464-0880

7. JCG Events

Description: Offers modern and creative wedding planning services.
Unique Features: Personalized service and attention to detail.
Address: 275 NE 18th St, Miami, FL 33132
Contact: (305) 848-2272

8. Events by Elle

Description: Specializes in creating luxurious and sophisticated weddings.
Unique Features: Customizable packages and exceptional service.
Address: 1800 NW 2nd Ave, Miami, FL 33127
Contact: (786) 768-2630

9. Floridian Weddings

Description: Known for their personalized and detail-oriented wedding planning services.
Unique Features: Customizable packages and exceptional service.
Address: 200 NW 25th St, Miami, FL 33127
Contact: (305) 600-1906

10. Forever Events

Description: Offers luxurious and sophisticated wedding planning services.
Unique Features: Personalized service and attention to detail.
Address: 1221 Brickell Ave, Miami, FL 33131
Contact: (305) 330-4693

Where to Host the Welcome Reception

What to Consider in Selecting a Wedding Reception Venue

Location: Proximity to the wedding venue and accommodations.
Capacity: Ability to accommodate the number of guests.
Ambiance: The atmosphere and style of the venue.
Amenities: Availability of catering, parking, and entertainment options.

1. The Rusty Pelican

Description: Offers stunning waterfront views and a chic atmosphere.
Unique Features: Panoramic views of Miami’s skyline and delicious seafood.
Address: 3201 Rickenbacker Causeway, Key Biscayne, FL 33149
Contact: (305) 361-3818

2. The Deck at Island Gardens

Description: A luxurious venue with stunning views of the Miami skyline and mega yachts.
Unique Features: Elegant decor, waterfront location, and upscale cuisine.
Address: 888 MacArthur Causeway, Miami, FL 33132
Contact: (786) 627-4940

3. Seaspice

Description: A sophisticated restaurant on the Miami River, perfect for a chic reception.
Unique Features: Waterfront views, modern decor, and gourmet cuisine.
Address: 422 NW North River Dr, Miami, FL 33128
Contact: (305) 440-4200

4. Smith & Wollensky

Description: A classic steakhouse with beautiful ocean views, ideal for a formal reception.
Unique Features: Oceanfront location, exceptional service, and fine dining.
Address: 1 Washington Ave, Miami Beach, FL 33139
Contact: (305) 673-2800

5. Nikki Beach

Description: A vibrant beachfront venue known for its lively atmosphere and elegant decor.
Unique Features: Beachfront location, chic decor, and diverse cuisine.
Address: 1 Ocean Dr, Miami Beach, FL 33139
Contact: (305) 538-1111

Bachelor and Bachelorette Parties

Bachelor Party Ideas

Golf Outing at Crandon Golf at Key Biscayne
- Description: A challenging golf course with beautiful scenery.
- Contact: (305) 361-9129
Deep Sea Fishing Charter
- Description: Experience the thrill of fishing in the deep waters off Miami.
- Contact: (305) 945-1578
Night Out in South Beach
- Description: Enjoy the vibrant nightlife with clubs, bars, and lounges.
- Contact: Various venues available.

Bachelorette Party Ideas

Spa Day at The Standard Spa
- Description: Relax with spa treatments, a hammam, and a waterfront pool.
- Contact: (305) 673-1717
Private Yacht Charter
- Description: Cruise the Miami waters in style with a private yacht.
- Contact: (305) 673-9989
Wine Tasting at Schnebly Redland’s Winery
- Description: Enjoy wine tasting in a beautiful tropical setting.
- Contact: (305) 242-1224

Where to Obtain a Marriage License – Rules

How and Where to Obtain

Location: Miami-Dade County Clerk of Courts, 73 W Flagler St, Miami, FL 33130
Contact: (305) 275-1155
Requirements: Both parties must be present with valid ID, complete an application, and pay a fee.
Documents Needed: Valid photo ID, social security numbers.
Waiting Period: No waiting period for non-residents; 3-day waiting period for Florida residents unless they complete a premarital course.
Additional Considerations: License is valid for 60 days.

Transportation Options

Airport Transfers: Private shuttles, taxis, and rideshare services are available from Miami International Airport.
Local Travel: Use Miami-Dade Transit, including Metrorail, Metromover, and Metrobus, or rent a car.

Accommodations

Luxury: The Ritz-Carlton South Beach, Four Seasons Hotel Miami
Mid-range: Kimpton EPIC Hotel, Hyatt Regency Miami
Budget: Courtyard by Marriott Miami, Hampton Inn & Suites Miami-South/Homestead

Group Activities and Excursions

Everglades Tour: Explore the unique ecosystem of the Everglades with an airboat tour.
Art Deco Walking Tour: Discover the history and architecture of South Beach.
Biscayne National Park: Snorkel or dive in the clear waters of this protected marine park.

Managing Logistics and Communication

Use Online Tools: Utilize wedding planning apps and websites to keep track of tasks and communicate with vendors.
Hire a Local Wedding Planner: Consider hiring a wedding planner to handle logistics and coordinate with local vendors.

Conclusion

Planning a destination wedding in Miami offers couples a unique and memorable experience with stunning venues, top-notch vendors, and a vibrant culture. By carefully selecting the right venue, caterer, photographer, florist, and planner, couples can ensure their wedding day is perfect. Detailed planning, personalized touches, and thoughtful consideration of guests’ needs will create a celebration that is truly unforgettable. Whether you’re dreaming of a beachside ceremony, a historic mansion, or a chic rooftop, Miami has the perfect setting for your special day.