We’re approaching the season that’s perfect for beach weddings, and if you’re planning a wedding, you know that it’s best to book a venue sooner rather than later. You don’t have to live in South Walton to plan a wedding here, although if you do, you might be inspired by those gorgeous beach views when it comes to your big day. But whether you’re coming in from across the street or across the country, there are a few standards that hold true for all brides and grooms who want to get married along 30A.
Getting a Marriage License
In order to be married in South Walton, whether you live here or not, you will of course need a Florida marriage license. You can get this from the Clerk of Courts at the South Walton Courthouse Annex. You’ll each need to provide a valid photo ID and your social security number. The license itself costs $86, and you’ll be required to read a handbook from the Florida Bar on the responsibilities of marriage before it’s given. There is a three-day wait for Florida residents, so it’s a good idea to apply for your marriage license at least a week before the wedding. Fortunately, the marriage license is valid for 60 days, so you should have plenty of time.
Finding a Venue and Vendors
The next question comes down to venues. While many brides and grooms dream of a beach wedding, this is not your only option in South Walton. You can find a complete list of wedding planners, event venues, and other vendors in South Walton that can help you pull off your dream wedding. Your venue may have a specific set of “preferred vendors” that they will require you to use in order to book with them, so it’s a good idea to ask for a “preferred vendors list” when interviewing them. For more information about venues, check out this list of South Walton wedding venues.
Of course, beach weddings are still a viable option at any public access beach. You’ll need a beach wedding permit first, which you can apply for through the Walton County Beach Code Enforcement.
Best Beaches For a Beach Wedding
Again, any beach with public access is fair game for your wedding as long as you have a beach wedding permit. That said, people have preferences when it comes to beaches where they’d like to get married. One of the most popular venues is Alys Beach, with its traditional whitewashed architecture that gives it almost a Grecian look. The entire resort has an elegant charm to it, and the beach is large enough to accommodate the whole party and your guests. Santa Rosa Beach is another well-loved wedding spot, especially the 26-mile strip called Gulf Place. While it’s a more private venue, the Sandestin Golf and Beach Resort offers beach access and could provide the perfect serene setting for your venue.
Are you thinking of getting married in 30A? Maybe you’d like a good wedding photographer to capture the best moments of the day or a beach bonfire to celebrate your bachelor or bachelorette party or reception. Tell us about your wedding plans in the comments below.