If you are considering having a destination wedding, Key West is a beautiful location that offers a unique and romantic atmosphere. With its stunning beaches, charming architecture, and tropical climate, Key West is an ideal place for a memorable wedding.
Whether you prefer a traditional ceremony or a more unconventional celebration, Key West has something to offer for everyone. From elegant resorts to cozy bed and breakfasts, there are plenty of venues to choose from that can accommodate your wedding style and budget.
Additionally, Key West has a variety of experienced wedding vendors, including photographers, caterers, florists, and planners, who can help you bring your wedding vision to life.
The big question though is — which of these vendors do you book first? All are important to a successful wedding day but there is a necessary order in which you should book them. Read on to find out more.
The Order in Which to Book Wedding Vendors
1st – Wedding Planner
The first step can be a bit tricky. Do you hire a planner or a book a venue first? Our personal opinion is to book a Key West wedding planner first and have them help you find a venue. The two things to know before finding a planner though is to have an approximate guest count and know what time of year you want to get married. Unless you have a wedding date that you MUST have, we always recommend being slightly flexible on exact dates. This allows you to work within both your planner’s and preferred venue’s schedule.
Hiring a wedding planner is one of the first and most important decisions you’ll make during the planning process. A professional wedding planner will be your guide, advocate, and voice of reason throughout the entire journey. They will help you establish a budget, create a timeline, scout vendors, and bring your vision to life. With their expertise and industry connections, a wedding planner can save you time, money, and stress, allowing you to enjoy the planning process and your big day without worries.
2nd – Venue
Securing a wedding venue in Key West should be one of your top priorities as it will determine the date, theme, and overall vibe of your big day. Key West offers a unique and romantic backdrop for your wedding with its beautiful beaches, tropical gardens, and historic landmarks. It is also a very popular location and venues book out months, if not years, in advance.
Finding the perfect venue for your Key West wedding is crucial in setting the stage for all other planning decisions. When selecting your venue, be sure to consider factors such as capacity, location, ambiance, and amenities to ensure it align with your vision and budget. With so many options to choose from, you’re sure to find the perfect venue that will make your Key West wedding a dream come true.
3rd – Photographer/Videographer
Next on the list? Hiring your dream photographer and videographer.
Memories are priceless, and hiring a skilled photographer and videographer is essential to capturing the precious moments of your wedding day. These professionals will document the emotions, details, and candid moments that you’ll cherish for a lifetime.
When choosing a photographer and videographer, review their portfolios, discuss your vision, and ensure their style aligns with your aesthetic preferences. Investing in high-quality photography and videography is a decision you won’t regret.
High-quality photographers and videographers are in demand and book out months if not years in advance. Book your favorites early!
You can read more about finding the perfect photographer and videographer here.
4th – Entertainment
Your Key West entertainment is next on the list because generally you dj or band, like photographers and videographers, can only really book one wedding each day, putting them at higher demand.
Entertainment is important because it sets the tone for your wedding reception and keeps guests engaged and entertained throughout the evening. Whether you opt for a live band, a DJ, or other performers, selecting the right entertainment is crucial to creating a festive atmosphere.
Consider your musical preferences, the energy you want to evoke, and the diversity of your guest list when choosing entertainment. Then, consult with potential performers, review playlists, and discuss special requests to ensure a seamless and memorable entertainment experience.
5th – Florist
While florists can take more than one wedding a day, their services are highly personalized and can be limited. Therefore, don’t wait until the last minute to book your florist.
Flowers play a significant role in setting the mood and enhancing the visual appeal of your wedding day. A talented florist will create stunning bouquets, centerpieces, and floral arrangements that complement your theme and color palette and add a punch of “wow” to your decor. Schedule consultations with florists to discuss your floral vision, preferred blooms, and budget to bring your floral dreams to life.
6th – Hair and Makeup Artists
Looking and feeling your best on your wedding day is a top priority, and hiring talented hair and makeup artists will help you achieve your desired bridal look. Professional hair and makeup artists will enhance your natural beauty, create a cohesive aesthetic for you and your bridal party, and ensure your hair and makeup withstand the day’s festivities.
Hair and makeup companies generally have multiple artists on staff and can supply multiple weddings each day. But again, don’t wait until the last minute to book a hair and makeup artist if you are highly particular or have someone specific in mind.
7th – Caterers and Cakes
Food and beverages are a central aspect of any wedding celebration, making the selection of a caterer a critical decision. Your caterer will not only provide delicious cuisine but also contribute to the overall guest experience. From cocktail-hour hors d’oeuvres to a decadent wedding cake, a talented caterer will tailor a menu that reflects your tastes and preferences. Consider scheduling tastings with potential caterers to sample their offerings and ensure they can deliver the culinary experience you desire. If your venue provides catering, you can skip this one.
8th – Officiant
The officiant is the person who will solemnize your marriage and lead your wedding ceremony. Whether you choose a religious figure, a civil officiant, or a friend or family member to preside over your ceremony, it’s essential to select someone who resonates with your beliefs and values. Work closely with your officiant to personalize your ceremony, incorporate meaningful rituals or readings, and ensure that your vows reflect your love and commitment to each other.
Other Vendors to Book
There are other vendors to keep in mind such as transportation, stationary, event rentals, to name a few, but the ones listed above are the main ones to keep in mind as you plan your Key West wedding. These are the ones you should consider booking first and with the most precedent.
