Introduction
Islands are surely meant for vacations. But the Amelia Island has many more attractive things to offer you, particularly, when planning a unique wedding. While your wedding gets a unique appeal with an island theme, there are numerous aspects which can be tempting and can add to your wedding charm. The serenity and tranquility of the Amelia Island is refreshing. The abundant options at the Island can keep you and your guests engaged comprehensively.
Why Amelia Island?
The Island can provide you a pleasant escape from the usual world. Sharing the special moment gains an elevated appeal with the peaceful seaport environment, rich wildlife, pristine waters and the cultural past which Amelia Island possesses.
Ranked number 5 among Top 10 North American Islands (Conde Nast Traveler’s 2010 Reader’s Choice Awards), it is easy getting here. The Jacksonville International Airport is within 30 minutes reach. If you want to enjoy the feel even before reaching Amelia, then Fernandina Harbor Marina can be your perfect home base. Private transport is also available.
The abundant sunshine and mild temperatures throughout the year are unparalleled advantages. If you want a spring wedding, then this Island can be one of the best venues with its blue skies, breezy days and afternoon showers. The summer, winter and autumn seasons are also comfortably suited.
It has some of the most beautiful wedding settings, like seaside, ornate grand ballrooms and romantic estates. Since the Island does not adorn elevated buildings (maximum height reaching seven stories), you always get striking views regardless of the venue you choose. The diverse range and types of accommodation facilities can fit in all budgets. The Victorian-era architecture and Florida’s oldest incessantly operating bar, the Palace Saloon, are special attractions.
Wedding types one could opt for
From having customized weddings to a planned one, you have diverse options in Amelia.
Customized wedding
While in Amelia, you can enjoy the wedding according to your taste. To have your own arrangement, you are allowed to use chairs, arbor or any other arrangement within a given framework. Planning a beach wedding between May and October could pose some restrictions as this is sea turtle’s nesting period. The sand has to remain smooth, and lights and cameras are not to be used pre-dawn and post-dusk. You would also possibly have to avoid any open fire, balloons, alcohol, string and cooking.
The Intimate Wedding
For those having a short (up to four) list of guests, this wedding package can be suited. Officiate and a courtyard or parlor is provided.
The Courtyard Wedding
To accommodate more people (up to 12 guests), this package is suited. Officiate and courtyard (or parlor) is included in the package.
The Elegant Affair Wedding
This package is suited for 20 guests. There is a choice between the front lawn and rose garden for your ceremony, accompanied by music. The catering menu has choices.
A Fairytale Event Wedding
For enjoying a fairytale style wedding, the Fairytale Event Wedding is the one. The package enables you to use the Williams House and Gardens. The package accommodates 10 guest rooms for 2 nights. Officiate, breakfast, music and social hour included.
Where to marry?
There can be a traditional church wedding. Residency rules not being an issue here, a beach-themed wedding at a tropical destination on U.S. shores can be a great idea for many enthusiasts.
The Addison
The Addison can be the right choice for an elopement or a small wedding. Having a scenic courtyard, the venue can provide an apt background. The blossoming gardens, fountain, and front porch swing together with the classy Victorian house can give a royal wedding memory. The Addison has intuitive parlor and outdoor porches, accompanied by guest rooms.
The Hyot House
An elopement wedding can suit you for enjoying an extremely private affair. The Hyot House is another venue for an intimate wedding at the Island. It has the Gazebo, music, the carriage ride, private dinner and many more things. There is the Beach ceremony at Sunrise or at Dusk, wherein couples can use a yacht for an exclusive wedding ceremony. There are wedding planners to take care of the wedding details without you bothering for the arrangements.
The Amelia Island Williams House
This is a mansion suited for large weddings. There are options like the front lawn of the antebellum mansion and the underneath rose arbor. Wedding arrangements, like catering, music, officiate, etc., are taken care of. The beautiful appeal of the mansion can potentially create a historic appeal in your wedding. The package can accommodate a maximum of 85 guests. You can give a dramatic look to your wedding by availing the carriage ride.
There are other options like the historic Ribault Club (in nearby Fort George Island).
