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And I couldn't help but think, "What a perfect venue for a simple, chic beach wedding."
I've been at Amelia Island Plantation for a few days now, sunning and drinking a margarita or three while my poor beau sits through boring conference classes. The time alone to explore the beach, the resort and the surrounding island has further confirmed that this would be the perfect venue for a wedding, or even a low-key bachelor or bachelorette party.
As with most beach resorts, the Plantation has an array of wedding and event services, but I wanted to get down to the nitty gritty, so I broke away from my beach chair and took a moment to chat with a Katherine Bean, one of the resort's wedding coordinators. (Katherine was chock full of great info, so I've paraphrased her answers below.)
Sara: So, really, how much does a wedding at the Plantation run?
Katherine: Weddings can be as big or small as needed. We have packages ranging from the intimate "Just the Two of Us" to much larger gatherings. One great option for the more budget conscious bride is to coordinate from our A La Carte wedding options. This way, the bride can choose a venue, menu and coordination services individually to fit her price range.
Sara: Can you use your own coordinator? Say, like Favor Events of Atlanta?
Katherine: Of course! In fact, we have several outside event planning and decor companies listed among our preferred vendors. When using your own planner, we suggest you book through the A La Carte services. This will keep your costs down and allow for more personalization from your planner. Keep in mind, however, that both set up and clean up are the responsibility of the outside planner. But, our friendly bell staff is always available with a helping hand. (Ed. note: Not only is the bell staff friendly, but very cute as well!)
Sara: How about decor? How much is too much for a beach wedding?
Katherine: I usually suggest one focal point for any beach ceremony. The natural beauty of Amelia Island, along with one sturdy canopy or arch is really all that's needed. A few tips when planning beach wedding decor at Amelia Island:
- No rose petal aisle! The petals are costly and usually blow away before the ceremony begins.
- No silk florals are allowed at Plantation beach weddings.
- Make sure canopies/arches are sturdy as the Atlantic winds are sometimes unforgiving.
- Finally, remember that because we are on the Atlantic, there is no such thing as a sunset beach wedding! The sun sets on the other side of the island, and is framed by the beautiful intercoastal waterways. If you are interested in a sunset wedding, Walker's Landing would be a beautiful venue.
Sara: Beside the beach, what's the most popular venue for a wedding at the Plantation?
Katherine: Our Oceanview Room and Terrace, an elegant ballroom and terrace overlooking the ocean, is one of the most popular spots. The other, Walker's Landing, is a completely different, but equally as beautiful, lodge-like venue with gorgeous intercoastal waterway views. For the bride that can't decide which venue she prefers, we suggest a rehearsal celebration at Walker's Landing and the ceremony and reception in our Oceanview Room and Terrace.
Sara: In my opinion, a couple rowdy guests are a must at any good wedding. Are there any hopping after-party spots, on the resort or the island? Do you offer a tram or taxi service?
Katherine: I suggest that the bride and groom encourage guests to stay at the resort unless the rehearsal dinner is held in town (Fernandina Beach). However, coordinators here can suggest travel options for guests should you desire. My suggestion is to buy out our local nightspot, The Falcon's Nest, for the evening and provide it as an option for fun and dancing after the rehearsal and/or reception. The buyout only costs $4000 (food and beverage minimum) and is a safe and fun alternative to heading into town.
Sara: How does a bride learn more about your services?
Katherine: She can feel free to visit our website or contact me at bean.katherine@aipfl.com.
Okay, so who wants to have their wedding at the Plantation so I can go back again as soon as possible!?
Sara
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