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.