Our team at Salty Girl Beach Setups has seen it all when it comes to Florida beach weddings— intimate, sandy nuptials with just the couple plus a few more, vows and brunch set to ocean waves, larger affairs around a picturesque beach bonfire… you name it, we’ve likely planned, set up, and hosted any beach wedding along 30A you can dream of!

Whether you’re considering Panama City Beach, Rosemary Beach, Grayton Beach, or any other memorable spot along 30A for your special day, here are some tried-and-true recommendations to keep in mind as you consider and plan your beach vows in Florida’s panhandle.

THINGS TO KNOW BEFORE PLANNING A 30A BEACH WEDDING

CONSIDER TIMING

Sure, it’s always good weather in Florida, but there is still so much to picking the right date. Spring offers warmer weather and cooler water temperatures, but keep in mind March and April bring more Spring Break vacationers.

A summer beach wedding is wonderful, but keep in mind June to August are popular vacation months along 30A. If you’re going for a summer wedding, consider planning in advance, choosing an evening or morning time, or selecting a less popular location if you’re looking for a more intimate feel.

Fall beach sunsets offer wonderfully vivid colors, but keep in mind Florida does have a hurricane season. And while winter (November-February) brings cooler temps, the seasons is still enjoyable on the beach and can offer more privacy on any of 30A’s most popular beaches!

SOUTH WALTON COUNTY TAKES THEIR BEACH CODES AND PERMITS SERIOUSLY.

Permits are required for events, and know the beach rules before you go. Weddings and events are allowed on the beaches, as long as the proper permits have been obtained. Tents and beach canopies are allowed on the beach, but they must be no larger than 10’ x 10’ and placed on the upper 1/3 of the beach, away from the water, and allowing 15’ for emergency vehicles.

CHOOSE YOUR BEACH PHOTOGRAPHER CAREFULLY

The beach has certain demands that make it different than photographing a more traditional wedding. The way the light reflects off the water, the colors of the sand, and the changing elements from sunrise to sunset all change how you will show up in photos, so we suggest choosing a photographer who lives and breathes the beach. Working on the beach day in and day out, we have an amazing list of the best local 30A photographers and we’re happy to pass it along for your big day!

ALCOHOL ON THE BEACH IS ALLOWED— WITH RESTRICTIONS.

Alcohol is permitted on 30A beaches (for those 21+!); however, glass containers are not allowed on the beaches. Check out Salty Girls Rosé for a delicious option designed to bring on the beach.

CHOOSE THE RIGHT 30A BEACH FOR YOUR WEDDING.

While our beaches are growing in popularity every day, there are hidden pockets if you’re looking for privacy, spots if you want the best view, places if local venues are a priority… whatever you need, 30A’s beaches have it all. Here are some of our favorite beaches, and reach out to find the best beach for your wedding.

“Absolutely perfect in every way! [Salty Girls Beach Setups] worked so diligently to get us exactly what we wanted for our mini-reception and our attendant was so kind, helpful and professional. We couldn’t have asked for better!” — Jessica Lynn Jones

WANT HELP PLANNING YOUR PERFECT BEACH PICNIC OR EVENT?

Glad you’re here. We’re crazy passionate about friends, family and of course our beaches. You’ll find us every weekend playing with the sun, salt and sand, and at night gazing at the moon making a wish for the next glorious day! We’ve got an eye for the aesthetic and a heart for customer service, which makes us the perfect team to choose for your next event!

We have Salty Beach Packages to fit all your needs, and Custom Event Planning for larger or more custom needs.

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