Comprehensive checklist

Here’s a comprehensive checklist to plan your dream Key West wedding, whether you’re local or organizing from afar. Use this step-by-step guide to stay on track!

12+ Months Before

[ ] Set a Budget: Determine total spend and allocate funds for venue, vendors, and extras.
[ ] Choose a Date: Avoid hurricane season (June–November). Peak season: December–April.
[ ] Research & Book Venue:
Beach permits (if needed) or all-inclusive venues (e.g., Casa Marina, The Reach).
Confirm backup plans for rain/high winds.
[ ] Hire a Local Wedding Planner: Critical for remote planning!
[ ] Create a Guest List: Estimate size to narrow venue options.

9–12 Months Before

[ ] Secure Key Vendors:
Caterer (Key West specialties: seafood, Key lime pie!).
Photographer/Videographer (sunset light is magical!).
Florist (tropical blooms: orchids, hibiscus).
Officiant (consider a conch-shell ceremony for local flair).
Entertainment (steel drum band, DJ, or solo guitarist).
[ ] Send Save-the-Dates: Include travel tips for guests.
[ ] Book Guest Accommodations: Reserve room blocks at hotels or vacation rentals.
[ ] Research Legal Requirements:
Florida marriage license (apply in person at Monroe County Clerk’s Office; 3-day wait waived with premarital course).

6–8 Months Before

[ ] Design Your Theme: Nautical, tropical, or vintage Key West vibes.
[ ] Order Attire: Lightweight fabrics for the heat (linen suits, flowy dresses).
[ ] Plan Transportation: Arrange trolleys, shuttles, or bike rentals for guests.
[ ] Create a Wedding Website: Share itinerary, lodging info, and Key West tips (e.g., sunset cruise ideas).
[ ] Book Rehearsal Dinner Venue: Popular spots: Latitudes, Blue Heaven, Louie’s Backyard.

3–5 Months Before

[ ] Finalize Menu & Cake: Include local flavors (stone crab, Key lime desserts).
[ ] Mail Invitations: Add RSVP deadline (online or mail-in).
[ ] Hair/Makeup Trial: Schedule with a local artist (salt air affects styles!).
[ ] Plan Welcome Bags: Fill with sunscreen, koozies, local snacks, and a Key West map.
[ ] Confirm Vendor Contracts: Double-check timelines, setup needs, and payments.

1–2 Months Before

[ ] Obtain Marriage License: Visit Monroe County Clerk’s Office (valid for 60 days).
[ ] Finalize Timeline: Share with vendors and bridal party (include sunset ceremony timing!).
[ ] Confirm Guest Count: Update caterer and venue.
[ ] Arrange Guest Activities: Sunset sails, snorkeling tours, or Duval Street bar crawl.
[ ] Pack Wedding Essentials: Attire, vows, permits, and emergency kit (bug spray, blotting papers).

2 Weeks Before

[ ] Touch Base with Planner/Vendors: Confirm arrival times and setup details.
[ ] Break-in Wedding Shoes: Cobblestone streets and sandy beaches require comfy footwear!
[ ] Review Weather Forecast: Prepare for heat, humidity, or rain (buy cute umbrellas!).
[ ] Final Payments: Settle balances with vendors.

Week of the Wedding

[ ] Welcome Guests: Distribute welcome bags at hotels.
[ ] Rehearsal Dinner: Host a casual seafood feast or sunset cruise.
[ ] Relax & Enjoy Key West: Schedule a spa day or poolside mimosa brunch.

Day-of Checklist

[ ] Marriage License: Bring ID and signed documents.
[ ] Emergency Kit: Tide pen, lipstick, vows copy, tissues, sunscreen.
[ ] Sunset Timing: Aim for ceremony 1 hour before sunset for golden-hour photos.
[ ] Celebrate!

After the Wedding

[ ] Return Rentals: Decor, attire, etc.
[ ] Write Thank-Yous: Add a Key West postcard or seashell trinket.
[ ] Preserve Memories: Order photo albums and share a wedding video montage.

Key West-Specific Tips

🌴 Local Touches: Conch-shell ceremony, starfish boutonnieres, or a “Just Married” golf cart parade.
🚤 Unique Venues: Beach, historic inn, lighthouse, or private yacht.
📜 Permits: For public beaches, apply early via Monroe County.
🌀 Hurricane Plan: Ask vendors about cancellation policies.

Use this checklist to stay organized and soak up the island vibes stress-free! 🍹🌊