Waterfront Wedding Ceremony with tropical ocean background.

Where to Start when Planning your Destination Wedding in the Keys?

Planning a Destination Wedding in the Florida Keys is an exciting adventure, and getting started with the right foundation will make the entire process smoother and more enjoyable. Here are a few key steps to help you begin:

1. Research Locations
Each island in the Florida Keys has its own personality and style.

Key West: Lively, historic, and full of tropical charm.

Lower Keys: Quiet, coastal, and perfect for intimate gatherings.

Marathon & Middle Keys: Balanced blend of convenience and natural beauty.

Upper Keys (Islamorada, Key Largo): Romantic, resort-style settings with stunning ocean views.

2. Determine Your Guest Count
Your estimated number of guests will help shape your venue options, budget, and accommodations. The Keys offer everything from private villas for 20 guests to beachfront resorts that can host 150 or more.

3. Define Your Wedding Vision
Think about the atmosphere you want to create. Are you dreaming of a relaxed seaside dinner, a formal garden celebration, or a sunset ceremony followed by a lively reception? Having a clear vision early on helps guide every decision moving forward.

4. Establish an Estimated Budget
Begin by outlining a general budget that reflects your priorities and comfort level. Consider key categories such as venue, catering, décor, photography, entertainment, and accommodations. Working with a Wedding Planner can help refine those numbers and guide you toward trusted vendors that fit both your vision and your budget.

5. Hire a Local Wedding Planner
A Planner who knows the Florida Keys can help you navigate local vendors, permits, weather considerations, and travel logistics. Their local knowledge ensures a smooth and stress-free experience, allowing you to fully enjoy your celebration.

With a little research, organization, and trusted local guidance, your Florida Keys Wedding will come together beautifully. Take your time exploring, enjoy the process, and remember that the planning journey is part of the memory too.

waterfront marina wedding ceromony venue with palm trees and sailboats in the marina.

What is the difference between Wedding “Planning & Design” and “Management & Coordination”? How to decide which is right for you?

Wedding Planning & Design
Our Planning & Design service is a Full-Service approach that begins from the very first moment you start your Wedding journey with JGE. We guide you through every step, selecting the perfect venue, curating your vendor team, managing your budget, and overseeing all the details. With our support, your Wedding will be a seamless and memorable celebration that reflects your unique love story.

Wedding Management & Coordination
Our Management & Coordination service is designed for the final two months leading up to your Big Day. We confirm vendor details, create a comprehensive timeline, and manage all logistics. On the day of your Wedding, we ensure everything runs smoothly so you can relax and enjoy your celebration.

Customized Service Rates
Rates are based on your planning stage, event size, timeline, and the level of assistance needed. This ensures your package is tailored specifically to you and your Wedding.

historic wedding ceremony venue at the iconic Hemingway Home in Key West. Green Trees and purple florals.

When is the ideal time to book your FL Keys Wedding?

For the most reliable weather, December through April is the peak season in the Keys, offering the best conditions for your celebration. During this time, venues, vendors, and accommodations are in high demand, so early planning is key.

May through November is a bit more relaxed, though tropical weather can be unpredictable. Whether you’re envisioning an indoor affair or an open-air celebration, my team is here to guide and support you every step of the way.

Second Line Band on Duval St in Key West with a Bride and groom celebrating wedding day

Which types of Vendors will you need to book?

Key West is home to a wide range of talented vendors, including photographers, florists, caterers, and planners. Working with local vendors is highly recommended, as they know the area and can help ensure your Wedding Day runs smoothly.

Once your venue is selected, we’ll explore all available vendor options together. Many venues have specific guidelines and requirements, such as restrictions on décor, table settings, or equipment rentals. Some may provide certain items like tables, chairs, or linens, while others require rentals to be arranged separately. Understanding these details early allows us to plan efficiently and avoid last-minute surprises.

By selecting the right vendors and coordinating rentals according to each venue’s rules, we can create a seamless, stress-free Wedding that brings your vision to life.

Vendors List Here!

A historic wedding venue with white linen and chairs, tropical greenery, disco balls, with a weather tent set up.

Inclement Weather

With over a decade of orchestrating events in outdoor settings, I bring a wealth of experience in skillfully handling the nuances of our island's weather. I am well-equipped to offer valuable insights, craft a contingency plan, and offer access to local vendors. This ensures that we are thoroughly equipped to handle any situation that may arise, leaving no room for surprises. The weather concern is real, but guess what? You don't have to stress with an experienced planner on your team!

Let's kick off this preparedness journey by checking if your chosen venue has a backup plan or indoor space. Most times, you can make this call either on your wedding day's morning or the day before, depending on what the weather forecasts say. If your venue doesn't have an indoor option, no worries—reserving a tent is a smart move. Our vendors offer what they call "weather backup tents” that we can secure in advance to ensure your guests have a comfortable and worry-free experience, regardless of what Mother Nature has in store!

My Favorite Weather Source

Wedding Ceremony of a couple holding hands in Key West with tropical greenery background

Obtaining Your Marriage License in Monroe County

A couple wishing to be legally married in the Florida Keys (Monroe County) may go to the Clerk’s office to apply for a marriage license or apply online below.

Schedule your appointment to sign & pick up your license.

FL Residents have a 3 day waiting period or you may provide a certificate from a Premarital Class Online.

No witnesses necessary.

Key West: Monroe Clerk of the Court, 500 Whitehead St, Key West, FL 33040

Courthouses also located in Marathon & Plantation Key.

The fee for a marriage license is $86.00.

Monroe County Clerk Of Court

What Accommodations does Key West offer for guests attending the Wedding?

Key West offers a wide variety of places to stay, from upscale hotels and inviting resorts to charming vacation rentals and cozy bed and breakfasts. To make sure your guests have the best experience, it’s a smart idea to pre-arrange room blocks.

With our Full Service Wedding Planning, we handle this for you—booking room blocks, securing accommodations, and coordinating details so your guests feel welcome and cared for. Together, we’ll make sure their stay is just as delightful as your celebration.

Check out our Preferred Vendors List below for a variety of accommodation options to suit every style and budget.

Click Here

Do we need to Rent a Car in Key West?

Key West is a relatively walkable destination, but you might consider arranging shuttle services for guests between the airport, accommodations, and the Wedding venue.

Bicycles and scooters are highly favored transportation choices, perfectly complemented by convenient local taxi services. Uber is also available.

Embrace Key West Culture and Island History

Key West is a treasure trove of history, culture, and vibrant traditions that can make your Wedding truly unforgettable. Honoring the island’s rich past adds depth and meaning to your celebration while creating a one-of-a-kind experience for your guests.

Consider weaving in local flavors and traditions like Conch fritters, Key lime pie, or a Conch Shell Ceremony to celebrate your love in true island style.

Other ways to embrace Key West’s unique culture and history include:

Historic venues: Exchange vows at iconic locations such as the Audubon House, Hemingway Home & Museum, or the Basilica for a timeless backdrop.

Island-inspired décor: Incorporate tropical florals, seashells, driftwood, and vibrant colors that reflect Key West’s natural beauty and maritime heritage.

Iconic figures & stories: Celebrate the spirit of Ernest Hemingway, Tennessee Williams, and other notable residents through literary touches, quotes, or themed accents.

Local music & entertainment: Hire a live band for jazz, calypso, or island-inspired tunes to infuse your Wedding with authentic Key West energy.

Sunset celebrations & local libations: Kick off your wedding celebrations in style with a sunset sail Welcome Party or a gathering featuring signature Key West cocktails like Rum Punch and Margaritas, setting the perfect island tone for your weekend of festivities.

Guest favors with a local twist: Mini bottles of rum, handmade Conch jewelry, or other island keepsakes for a memorable takeaway.

By honoring the island’s history, culture, and traditions, your Wedding becomes more than a celebration! It’s an immersive Key West experience that reflects both your love story and the spirit of the island.

A blue angel flying over a wedding with the blue skyin the background and a cloudy sky.

Local Happenings

The City of Key West and Monroe County hosts a variety of festivals and events year-round. This can result in a busy island with the potential for hypothetical and actual roadblocks. We will work together, and plan accordingly, to safeguard the path to a most memorable day.

Here are just a few of our most popular Local Happenings in Key West!

January 2026

Key West Half Marathon & RunFest
Dates: January 16–18, 2026
More Info:keywesthalfmarathon.com

Mile 0 Fest
Dates: January 27–31, 2026
More Info:mile0fest.com

February 2026

Key West Art & Craft Festival
Dates: February 21–22, 2026
More Info:keywestartcenter.com

April–May 2026

Key West Songwriters Festival
Dates: April 29–May 3, 2026
Info:keywestsongwritersfestival.com

June 2026

Key West Pride
Dates: June 3–7, 2026
More Info:gaykeywestfl.com

July 2026

Key Lime Festival
Dates: July 3–7, 2026
More Info:keylimefestival.com