Wedding

Wedding

Planning a Destination Wedding in Orlando

A destination wedding is a celebration held in a location away from the couple’s hometown, offering an opportunity to create unique and unforgettable memories in a picturesque setting. These weddings often combine the ceremony and honeymoon, with guests traveling to enjoy both the wedding and a mini-vacation. Popular destinations for weddings include beach resorts, mountain lodges, historic cities, and vibrant urban centers.

The appeal of a destination wedding lies in its ability to create a special, intimate experience for both the couple and their guests. Orlando, known for its world-famous theme parks and beautiful weather, has become a favored destination for couples seeking a magical and diverse backdrop for their nuptials. The city offers a wide range of venues, from luxurious resorts to charming gardens, making it an ideal location for a dream wedding.

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Top 10 Wedding Venues in Orlando

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.
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1. Waldorf Astoria Orlando

  • Description: Nestled within the Bonnet Creek Nature Preserve, the Waldorf Astoria Orlando offers elegant ballrooms and outdoor spaces for a luxurious wedding experience.
  • Address: 14200 Bonnet Creek Resort Lane, Orlando, FL 32821
  • Contact Information: (407) 597-5500

2. Four Seasons Resort Orlando at Walt Disney World Resort

  • Description: This stunning resort features breathtaking gardens, lakeside terraces, and opulent ballrooms, perfect for a fairy-tale wedding.
  • Address: 10100 Dream Tree Blvd, Golden Oak, FL 32836
  • Contact Information: (407) 313-7777

3. The Ritz-Carlton Orlando, Grande Lakes

  • Description: Offering a blend of sophistication and natural beauty, this venue features grand ballrooms and picturesque outdoor settings.
  • Address: 4012 Central Florida Parkway, Orlando, FL 32837
  • Contact Information: (407) 206-2400

4. Bella Collina

  • Description: This Tuscan-inspired venue boasts rolling hills, lush gardens, and stunning architecture, providing a romantic setting for weddings.
  • Address: 15920 County Road 455, Montverde, FL 34756
  • Contact Information: (407) 469-4999

5. Cypress Grove Estate House

  • Description: A charming lakeside estate with beautiful gardens and a vintage manor, perfect for intimate and elegant weddings.
  • Address: 290 Holden Ave, Orlando, FL 32839
  • Contact Information: (407) 254-9850

6. The Acre Orlando

  • Description: A unique outdoor venue with rustic charm, featuring gardens, fire pits, and eclectic decor for a relaxed, bohemian wedding.
  • Address: 4421 Edgewater Dr, Orlando, FL 32804
  • Contact Information: (407) 704-5161

7. Luxmore Grande Estate

  • Description: This luxurious estate offers a grand ballroom and beautiful grounds, providing a stunning backdrop for a sophisticated wedding.
  • Address: 1120 Orange Ave, Winter Springs, FL 32708
  • Contact Information: (407) 745-3131

8. The Alfond Inn

  • Description: Located in the heart of Winter Park, this boutique hotel offers elegant indoor and outdoor spaces for a stylish wedding.
  • Address: 300 E New England Ave, Winter Park, FL 32789
  • Contact Information: (407) 998-8090

9. Paradise Cove

  • Description: A lakeside venue with a tropical ambiance, featuring a sandy beach, palm trees, and tiki bars for a fun, laid-back wedding.
  • Address: 13245 Lake Bryan Dr, Orlando, FL 32821
  • Contact Information: (407) 239-6939

10. Leu Gardens

  • Description: This botanical garden offers a beautiful setting with lush landscapes, rose gardens, and serene lakes for a picturesque wedding.
  • Address: 1920 N Forest Ave, Orlando, FL 32803
  • Contact Information: (407) 246-2620
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Top 10 Caterers in Orlando

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. Arthur’s Catering

  • Description: Known for its creative menus and exceptional service, Arthur’s Catering offers a wide range of cuisines, from traditional to contemporary.
  • Contact Information: (407) 331-1993

2. 4Rivers Smokehouse

  • Description: Specializing in delicious barbecue, 4Rivers Smokehouse offers a unique and flavorful catering option for a casual wedding.
  • Contact Information: (844) 474-8377

3. Big City Catering

  • Description: With a focus on fresh ingredients and innovative dishes, Big City Catering provides customized menus to suit any wedding theme.
  • Contact Information: (407) 438-3488

4. Cuisiniers Catering & Events

  • Description: Offering gourmet cuisine with an artistic flair, Cuisiniers Catering is known for its attention to detail and personalized service.
  • Contact Information: (407) 975-8763

5. Puff ‘n Stuff Catering

  • Description: Renowned for its creative menus and impeccable service, Puff ‘n Stuff Catering offers a range of culinary styles and customizable options.
  • Contact Information: (407) 629-7833

6. Cocktails Catering

  • Description: Specializing in full-service catering, Cocktails Catering offers a wide variety of menu options, from classic dishes to modern fare.
  • Contact Information: (407) 446-2878

7. John Michael Exquisite Weddings and Catering

  • Description: With a focus on elegance and sophistication, John Michael Catering offers gourmet menus and exceptional service.
  • Contact Information: (407) 894-6671

8. River City Catering

  • Description: Offering a diverse range of cuisines, River City Catering is known for its delicious food and attentive service.
  • Contact Information: (407) 324-4343

9. Two Chicks and a Pot

  • Description: Known for its farm-to-table approach, Two Chicks and a Pot offers fresh, locally-sourced ingredients and creative dishes.
  • Contact Information: (407) 732-7727

10. Orlando’s Best Catering

  • Description: Specializing in customized menus and high-quality service, Orlando’s Best Catering offers a range of options to suit any wedding style.
  • Contact Information: (407) 374-0007

Top 10 Wedding Photographers in Orlando

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.
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1. A Magic Moment

  • Description: Known for their classic and elegant style, A Magic Moment captures timeless wedding memories.
  • Contact Information: (407) 238-2727

2. Steven Miller Photography

  • Description: Specializing in candid and creative photography, Steven Miller Photography captures the authentic emotions of your special day.
  • Contact Information: (407) 504-7314

3. Sunglow Photography

  • Description: Offering a blend of artistic and traditional styles, Sunglow Photography provides beautiful and memorable wedding images.
  • Contact Information: (407) 801-9143

4. Castaldo Studio

  • Description: Renowned for their artistic and innovative approach, Castaldo Studio creates stunning wedding photos that tell a story.
  • Contact Information: (407) 566-3435

5. Concept Photography

  • Description: With a focus on creativity and emotion, Concept Photography captures the essence of your wedding day.
  • Contact Information: (407) 496-4478

6. Root Photography

  • Description: Known for their fun and relaxed style, Root Photography captures the joy and excitement of your wedding.
  • Contact Information: (407) 810-0083

7. Corner House Photography

  • Description: Specializing in natural and candid photography, Corner House Photography creates beautiful wedding images.
  • Contact Information: (407) 435-7747

8. Luxmore Grande Estate Photography

  • Description: Offering a blend of elegance and artistry, Luxmore Grande Estate Photography captures stunning wedding moments.
  • Contact Information: (407) 745-3131

9. Lakeland Photography

  • Description: Known for their attention to detail and creativity, Lakeland Photography provides high-quality wedding images.
  • Contact Information: (863) 559-6260

10. James and Shannon Photography

  • Description: Specializing in classic and timeless photography, James and Shannon Photography capture the beauty and emotion of your wedding.
  • Contact Information: (407) 637-6634
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Top 10 Florists in Orlando

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. In Bloom Florist

  • Description: Known for their artistic and unique designs, In Bloom Florist creates stunning floral arrangements for weddings.
  • Contact Information: (407) 649-7771

2. The Flower Studio

  • Description: Specializing in elegant and sophisticated designs, The Flower Studio offers beautiful floral arrangements tailored to your wedding style.
  • Contact Information: (407) 647-4731

3. Lee James Floral Designs

  • Description: Renowned for their creative and luxurious designs, Lee James Floral Designs offers custom arrangements for weddings.
  • Contact Information: (407) 897-5300

4. Atmospheres Floral and Decor

  • Description: Offering a wide range of floral and decor services, Atmospheres Floral and Decor creates beautiful and cohesive wedding designs.
  • Contact Information: (407) 328-5005

5. Peddles

  • Description: Known for their classic and timeless designs, Peddles provides stunning floral arrangements for weddings.
  • Contact Information: (407) 339-7380

6. Greenery Productions

  • Description: Specializing in innovative and sustainable designs, Greenery Productions offers unique floral arrangements and decor for weddings.
  • Contact Information: (407) 363-9151

7. Raining Roses Productions

  • Description: Offering a blend of creativity and elegance, Raining Roses Productions creates beautiful and memorable floral designs.
  • Contact Information: (407) 251-1226

8. Bluegrass Chic

  • Description: Known for their personalized service and attention to detail, Bluegrass Chic provides custom floral arrangements for weddings.
  • Contact Information: (407) 601-3960

9. Pixies and Petals

  • Description: Specializing in whimsical and romantic designs, Pixies and Petals creates unique and enchanting floral arrangements.
  • Contact Information: (407) 504-0144

10. Flowers by Lesley

  • Description: Known for their artistic and creative designs, Flowers by Lesley offers stunning floral arrangements for weddings.
  • Contact Information: (407) 383-0497

Top 10 Wedding Planners in Orlando

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.
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1. An Affair to Remember

  • Description: Known for their attention to detail and personalized service, An Affair to Remember offers comprehensive wedding planning and design.
  • Contact Information: (407) 896-1476

2. Runway Events

  • Description: Specializing in creative and unique weddings, Runway Events provides full-service planning and design.
  • Contact Information: (407) 917-9036

3. Blush by Brandee Gaar

  • Description: Renowned for their luxury wedding planning and design, Blush by Brandee Gaar offers personalized service and exceptional attention to detail.
  • Contact Information: (407) 603-6490

4. Just Marry!

  • Description: Offering a wide range of services, Just Marry! specializes in destination weddings and elopements.
  • Contact Information: (407) 259-2388

5. At Last Wedding + Event Design

  • Description: Known for their modern and elegant approach, At Last Wedding + Event Design offers full-service planning and coordination.
  • Contact Information: (407) 440-0373

6. Raining Roses Productions

  • Description: Specializing in creative and luxurious weddings, Raining Roses Productions provides comprehensive planning and design services.
  • Contact Information: (407) 251-1226

7. Nicole Squared Events

  • Description: Offering personalized service and attention to detail, Nicole Squared Events specializes in full-service wedding planning and coordination.
  • Contact Information: (407) 408-6536

8. Tickled Pink Brides

  • Description: Known for their fun and creative approach, Tickled Pink Brides provides full-service wedding planning and design.
  • Contact Information: (407) 252-7250

9. Plan It Event Design & Management

  • Description: Specializing in elegant and sophisticated weddings, Plan It Event Design & Management offers comprehensive planning and design services.
  • Contact Information: (407) 459-7900

10. Wedding Venue Map

  • Description: Offering personalized planning and venue selection services, Wedding Venue Map helps couples find the perfect location for their wedding.
  • Contact Information: (407) 259-2388
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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 Boathouse Orlando

  • Description: Located in Disney Springs, The Boathouse offers a nautical-themed atmosphere and waterfront dining for a relaxed and fun reception.
  • Address: 1620 E Buena Vista Dr, Lake Buena Vista, FL 32830
  • Contact Information: (407) 939-2628

2. Canvas Restaurant & Market

  • Description: Offering a modern and stylish setting with views of Lake Nona, Canvas Restaurant & Market is perfect for a chic and contemporary reception.
  • Address: 13615 Sachs Ave, Orlando, FL 32827
  • Contact Information: (407) 313-7800

3. The Alfond Inn

  • Description: Located in Winter Park, The Alfond Inn offers elegant indoor and outdoor spaces for a sophisticated and stylish reception.
  • Address: 300 E New England Ave, Winter Park, FL 32789
  • Contact Information: (407) 998-8090

4. The Rusty Spoon

  • Description: Known for its farm-to-table cuisine, The Rusty Spoon offers a cozy and intimate setting for a relaxed and flavorful reception.
  • Address: 55 W Church St, Orlando, FL 32801
  • Contact Information: (407) 401-8811

5. Ceviche Tapas Bar & Restaurant

  • Description: Located in downtown Orlando, Ceviche Tapas Bar & Restaurant offers a lively and vibrant atmosphere with a variety of Spanish-inspired dishes.
  • Address: 125 W Church St, Orlando, FL 32801
  • Contact Information: (321) 281-8140

Bachelor and Bachelorette Parties

Ideas for Bachelor and Bachelorette Parties in Orlando

Orlando offers a wide range of activities and venues for unforgettable bachelor and bachelorette parties. Here are some ideas:

Bachelor Party Ideas

  1. Golf Outing

    • Enjoy a day on the greens at one of Orlando’s top golf courses, such as Arnold Palmer’s Bay Hill Club & Lodge or Grand Cypress Golf Club.
  2. Adventure Park

    • Experience the thrill of zip-lining and aerial challenges at Orlando Tree Trek Adventure Park.
  3. Brewery Tour

    • Visit local breweries, such as Orlando Brewing and Crooked Can Brewing Company, for a fun and relaxed day of beer tasting.

Bachelorette Party Ideas

  1. Spa Day

    • Indulge in a day of pampering at The Ritz-Carlton Spa, Orlando, or Waldorf Astoria Spa.
  2. Wine Tasting

    • Enjoy a wine tasting tour at Quantum Leap Winery or Lakeridge Winery & Vineyards.
  3. Beach Day

    • Head to Cocoa Beach or Daytona Beach for a relaxing day by the ocean with sun, sand, and surf.
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Where to Obtain a Marriage License – Rules

Obtaining a Marriage License in Orlando

To get married in Orlando, you’ll need to obtain a marriage license from the Orange County Clerk of Courts. Here’s what you need to know:

  • Where to Apply: Orange County Clerk of Courts, 425 N Orange Ave, Orlando, FL 32801
  • Contact Information: (407) 836-2067
  • Requirements:
    • Both parties must appear in person.
    • Valid photo identification (driver’s license, state ID, or passport).
    • Social Security numbers.
    • If previously married, the exact date of divorce or death of the former spouse.
  • Waiting Period: No waiting period for non-residents. Florida residents must wait three days unless they complete a premarital counseling course.
  • Validity: The license is valid for 60 days from the date of issuance.
  • Cost: $93.50 (discount available for completing a premarital counseling course).

Transportation Options

  • Airport Transfers: Arrange for shuttle services or private transportation from Orlando International Airport for guests.
  • Local Travel: Consider renting a bus or van for group transportation to and from events.

Accommodations

  • Hotels: Recommend nearby hotels that offer group rates, such as The Grand Bohemian Hotel or The Alfond Inn.
  • Rental Properties: Consider renting vacation homes or condos for large groups to stay together.

Group Activities

  • Theme Parks: Arrange group visits to Walt Disney World Resort or Universal Orlando Resort for a fun day of rides and attractions.
  • Outdoor Adventures: Plan a group kayaking or airboat tour to explore Orlando’s natural beauty.

Logistics and Communication

  • Vendor Coordination: Maintain regular communication with vendors to ensure all details are in place.
  • Guest Communication: Use a wedding website or app to keep guests informed about event details and schedules.
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Conclusion

Planning a destination wedding in Orlando offers a unique opportunity to create unforgettable memories in a vibrant and diverse setting. With its beautiful venues, top-notch vendors, and exciting activities, Orlando provides everything you need for a magical wedding experience. By carefully selecting the right vendors and venues, and considering the needs of your guests, you can create a personalized and memorable celebration that reflects your love story. Embrace the journey of planning your dream wedding in Orlando and enjoy the adventure of a lifetime.