FAQ’S - Everything You Need to Know for Your Dream Beach Wedding Ceremony
Created By: Weddings By The Gulf
Frequently asked questions
At Weddings By The Gulf, we specialize in turning your dream beach wedding into a reality—while keeping it within your budget. Whether you're envisioning an intimate gathering or a grand celebration, our FAQ section provides everything you need to know about our services and what to expect. A wedding by the water is more than a dream; it's a magical experience. Let us help you make it come true! Trust us to deliver stunning and romantic Gulfside ceremonies, whether you're planning a wedding, vow renewal, proposal, or elopement. Explore our wide range of beach wedding bundles, and let us help you create unforgettable memories!
Here’s how to make it happen:
Reservations and Deposits
How do we reserve our beach wedding?
To reserve your beach wedding, simply call us at 850-449-0459 to check availability. All bookings must be made by phone reservations. Emails are not accepted. We accept major credit cards, debit cards, or money orders. Your wedding date and time will be secured once we receive your deposit.
When is payment due?
A deposit is required at the time of booking to confirm your reservation, and it will be applied toward the total bundle price. The remaining balance can be paid at any time but must be paid in full no later than 45 days before your ceremony date. For any reservation within 30 days of booking, the bundle must be paid in full. Please note that all deposits and payments are non-refundable.
Can we do a payment plan?
Yes. We can customize your payments and dates due to fit your budget. We want brides to get the beach wedding of their dreams, so please feel free to ask!
Florida Marriage License Information
To apply for a marriage license in Florida, both individuals must provide the following:
A valid photo ID (e.g., driver’s license, passport)
Social Security numbers
The License fee is $93.50. If you take the marriage pre-course class, you can save money on this fee.
For additional details and a list of Florida Clerk of Court offices, click here.
Wedding Service on the Beach
Do we need permission to have a beach wedding?
While all beaches are public, we recommend checking with your hotel, condo, or beach house to confirm if hosting a wedding ceremony is allowed. Most properties are wedding-friendly, but some may charge a fee for use of their beach. This is especially important to note for budget-conscious couples.
Which locations do you serve?
We are a mobile wedding company, ready to bring your dream ceremony to your chosen location—whether it’s a condo, beach house, hotel or state pavilion. For more private beach weddings, consider County or State Parks in Destin, Ft. Walton Beach, Grayton Beach, Okaloosa Island, Navarre Beach, or Pensacola Beach, Florida. Our Areas of Service are listed on the footer of every page.
Can we bring our own decorations?
Ask. Some beaches and state parks require specific licenses, liability insurance, and Special Event Permits for weddings. We hold all the necessary permits, business licenses, and insurance to ensure your ceremony complies fully with local regulations. I am known for my desire to accommodate your wishes for your day. I do my best to use any custom items you request. They would need to be in my care within 30 days of the ceremony. The handmade hibiscus featured in one of the photos was mailed to us, and we arranged the flowers in accordance with the required guidelines..
Do we have to use a pre determined color scheme like other providers?
No. Each wedding is unique to the couple so flower arrangements may be customized to your color scheme. We will do our best to accommodate your wishes. Note: Depending on what season your wedding is held, some flowers may not be available at the time.
Are the pictures online accurate?
Yes, these are our actual wedding setups. However, over time, some items may become worn or broken and require replacement. Additionally, if inventory is limited due to use at another location, we may need to substitute with a different style. As a result, the chairs and arch (or other props) might differ slightly from the photos displayed online. While styles may vary, we ensure that the colors will always be brown or white. Regarding the flowers, each wedding is unique, and flower arrangements may be customized to the couple’s chosen color scheme.
Can we use our own officiant or minister?
Yes! You are welcome to bring your own minister, provided they are ordained in our state. Do you have a close relative who you want to officiate? Have them ordained. Click here
Can we use our own photographer?
Yes! We do provide a professional photographer but you are welcome to bring your own photographer. We understand this is a personal and important decision for every bride.
Can we have music?
Yes. Music can be added to any bundle, but we kindly request that you provide your soundtrack list 2-3 weeks prior to the ceremony.
What is the Union of Sand during the Ceremony?
The couple collects sand from the spot where they exchange vows and simultaneously pours it into a decorative bottle. This represents their union and becomes a treasured keepsake to remember their special day.
Cancellations and Rescheduling
What happens if we need to cancel?
We understand that unexpected situations can arise, making it difficult to hold your beach wedding as planned. In qualifying cases, we offer the flexibility to reschedule your wedding within one year of your original date, applying any payments already made as credit toward your new ceremony date. Those qualifying cases consists of: weather, last minute sickness, or transportation issues.
If you cancel due to weather, last minute sickness, or transportation issues, with no rescheduling within a year, all paid deposits reserving an event date, will not be refunded.
If you cancel your event 90 or more days before your scheduled event date, you will receive a $400 refund for the Tides of Love and Eternal Waves Bundle. For the Seaside Dream Bundle, you will receive a $250.00 refund. There is no refund for a deposit on the Endless Horizon Bundle due to the work already started. If you cancel less than 30 days before your scheduled event date, on any Bundle, other than weather, sickness or transportation as mentioned. above, there will be no refund applied.
Receptions:
Do you offer receptions?
We do not provide wedding reception services, but we’re happy to recommend venues where you can host your celebration—feel free to ask.
Do you offer Trip reservations?
In our Dream Bundle, We do offer help with hotels, condos, or home reservations plus airline and car rentals. The costs of these items are separate and paid by the party.
More Questions?
Didn't find the answer you were looking for in our FAQ? Call: 850-449-0459 or Email us: WeddingsByTheGulf@gmail.com
Let’s Make Your Dream Beach Wedding a Reality!
Planning a wedding can feel overwhelming, but you don’t have to do it alone. At Weddings By The Gulf, we’re experts in crafting unforgettable beach weddings tailored to your vision and budget.
Schedule Your Free Consultation Today!
Fill out our registration form, and let’s start planning your dream wedding together.
Your perfect beach wedding is just a few steps away. 🌴