Sunset Beach Wedding in Destin Florida

If you are looking to get married in Destin, Florida you are in luck! Hi! I am Erica, a destination wedding and elopement photographer that specializes in this beautiful area! My sister lives here and I have been visiting since I was a small child. I can’t wait to share helpful information to start you on your journey to planning your beautiful coastal wedding!

Destin is the perfect place to have an intimate wedding or elopement! Settled in the panhandle of Florida, the beaches are full of white sand and crystal clear waters. There is also a ton of great food and things to do!

When to have an intimate wedding or elopement in Destin, Florida

Although beautiful, it is still Florida and the different seasons are definitely something to consider. There are a few things to consider when looking at picking the perfect season to have your wedding or elopement in Destin: 

Winter– December + January are the coldest months in Florida. Winter is a great season to avoid the crowds, but also might catch a cold front! 

Spring– My favorite season for elopements or weddings in Destin Florida! March is mostly dry + sunny, but is also popular for spring break! April + May are great months for Florida as the days are getting longer, and temperatures are rising!

Summer– June, July, and August are extra popular for tourists, summer vacations and is  also the most hot and humid weather! 

Fall– It starts cooling down a bit in September, and kids are back in school! November is the driest month of the year and would be a fantastic month for a fall beach wedding or elopement. October is also just a wonderful month and option.

How to have a wedding in Destin, Florida

There are a few different options for ceremony and reception locations. You could find a wedding venue, rent an airbnb that will allow events, or even find a beach! There are a few things to consider about picking a beach location with public access.

Okaloosa County requires a wedding permit to be obtained from the county for all weddings taking place on county-owned property regardless of the number of attendees. An event permit is also required for any non-wedding organized public gathering of 50 or more people. Find more information here.

Obtaining a Marriage License in Destin, Florida

You’ll first need to apply for a marriage license at the local clerk of court. The majority of counties allow you to do this online. Keep in mind that there’s a 3-day waiting period. If you’re flying into Florida, this can be done three days ahead of time before your trip online. Just make sure that you’re in Florida during business hours of the Clerk of Court to pick up your marriage license before your ceremony! Once you have your marriage license, you can elope literally anywhere in Florida within 60 days!! Wahoo!! Li

Where to get married in Destin, Florida

Select the Perfect Beach Location: Destin has numerous beautiful beach locations to choose from. Research different beaches, consider factors like accessibility and amenities, and choose a spot that suits your preferences. Consider the accommodation options for your guests, if you are having any! Destin has a plethora of resorts, hotels, and vacation rentals to choose from. I recommend thinking about what kind of ceremony and/or reception you would like to have! I love finding Airbnbs that can host everything in one. Below are a list of my favorite beach locations for ceremonies:

-Henderson Beach State Park

-Miramar Beach

-Dune Allen Beach

-Santa Rosa Beach

-Blue Mountain Beach

-Grayton Beach

-John Beasley Beach Area

-James Lee Beach Access

-Okaloosa Island Public Beach Access

Destin Florida Wedding Vendors

Research and book vendors that will add something special to your day. This includes an officiant, florals, catering, planners. Finding a photographer (Hi, It’s me!!) that can help build out a timeline and has experience with beach weddings will be super beneficial in the planning process! Below are some of the key wedding vendors you will need for your day:

Photographer / Videographer

Florals

Caterer or Restaurant Venue for food

Music / DJ

Hair + Makeup

Decor

Bartender

Officiant

Bathrooms (This is if you aren’t at a venue or Airbnb)

Day of coordinator / Planner

Remember this day is about you and your lover! So choose things that will make you both happy and be a reflection of who you are as a couple! Florals can be big or small, Food can be a taco truck or a catered Italian dinner. The point is the day is totally about you and your boo!

I hope this blog was helpful on getting started about where, when, and how to plan your wedding day in Destin, Florida! I would love to get to know you and talk more about details, so hop on over to my website and fill out my contact form! Also, follow me on Instagram for behind the scenes on wedding and elopement days!