Planning a destination wedding weekend in Florida is no small feat, but when done right, it creates an unforgettable experience for both you and your guests. Daniella and Casey’s destination wedding weekend at Hacienda De Las Palmas was a prime example of how to plan a wedding weekend that blends relaxation, celebration, and personal touches. From a welcome party by the beach to a beautiful ceremony and lively reception, their weekend was filled with memorable moments and joy. Here’s your guide to planning a destination wedding weekend inspired by their celebration.

Kick-Off with a Welcome Party

One of the most impactful parts of Daniella and Casey’s wedding weekend was their welcome party at S3 Sun Surf Sand the night before their big day. It was a relaxed seaside get-together on a windy, cozy South Florida evening, where close family and friends gathered to mingle and celebrate. The vibe was laid-back, with everyone enjoying the beautiful surroundings, great food, and drinks.

Pro Tip: Host a welcome party the night before the wedding to help your guests settle in and set the tone for the entire weekend. Whether at the beach or in a cozy venue, it’s the perfect way to start the celebration before the big day.

The Wedding Day at Hacienda De Las Palmas

On the wedding day, Daniella and Casey were able to get ready in the same luxurious venue, the Hacienda De Las Palmas. This breathtaking estate provided a stunning backdrop for both their getting ready moments and the ceremony itself. With its lush gardens, elegant architecture, and cozy ambiance, Hacienda De Las Palmas became the perfect setting for their destination celebration.

Getting Ready: Daniella and Casey’s getting ready moments were intimate and full of joy. Daniella looked radiant in her gown while Casey prepped alongside his groomsmen. The estate’s stunning interiors and serene atmosphere made these moments even more special.

First Look: Daniella and Casey chose the fountain at the Hacienda for their first look, creating an intimate moment for them before the ceremony began. The serene setting and beautiful surroundings made it the perfect location for a memorable first look.

Incorporating Family Moments

Rather than opting for a traditional wedding party, Daniella and Casey chose to make their family the focal point of their wedding. The couple had a family-first look, which included their brothers and father. These moments, filled with love and laughter, added a personal touch to the day.

Pro Tip: Include family in special moments like a first look or significant traditions. It’s a great way to make your destination wedding weekend in Florida more meaningful and inclusive.

A Meaningful Ceremony and Ketubah Signing

The ceremony was intimate and full of emotional moments. Daniella and Casey incorporated a Ketubah signing during the ceremony, adding a cultural and personal touch to their vows. With a floral arch as a backdrop and white roses lining the aisle, the scene was picture-perfect for the couple to say their “I do’s” under the Florida sun.

Pro Tip: Incorporate meaningful rituals and traditions that reflect your cultural or personal journey as a couple. Whether it’s a Ketubah signing, exchanging family heirlooms, or a special reading, these moments will make your ceremony uniquely yours.

Surprise Party Dress Change

After the ceremony, Daniella surprised everyone with a party dress change. She slipped into a chic new dress, ready to hit the dance floor and party with her guests. This fun transition added an exciting twist to the evening’s celebrations.

Pro Tip: A dress change can add an element of surprise and fun to your reception. It’s a great way to transition into the party portion of your day and keep the energy flowing.

Key Takeaways

When planning a destination wedding weekend in Florida, first and foremost, you’ll need to choose a location and hire a trusted vendor team. Once you’ve secured the perfect site, you’ll need to visit it a few times to finalize the details. This is an essential step to make sure everything feels right for you and your guests.

Next, dive into the logistical details. Consider accommodations for you and your guests, and make sure your dress is ready to go! Take care of essential items like checking the marriage requirements for the region, obtaining insurance, and ensuring your passport is valid. Don’t forget the little things that enhance the experience, like adding local blooms to your decor and preparing welcome bags for your guests.

At the heart of all these details is a professional vendor team you can rely on. As a wedding photographer, I’m committed to providing not only beautiful imagery but also a seamless experience for couples on their wedding weekend. I work with you to ensure that every moment is captured with care, and that your vision comes to life. Your wedding day is an unforgettable experience, and with the right team, you can ensure it stays that way forever in stunning photos.

Vendor Team

Photographer: Aileen Ayala Photo | @aileenayalaphoto

Dress Boutique: Spina Bride | @spinabride

Dress Designer: Lihi Hod Bridal | @lihihod

Heels: Jimmy Choo | @jimmychoo

Makeup Artist: Chris Richards | @chrisrichards

Hair Stylist: The Clyque | @theclyque

Suit Designer: Indochino Weddings | @indochinoweddings

Venue: Hacienda De Las Palmas | @thehaciendafl

DJ: Rock With U | @Rockwithu

Wedding Planner & Florist: Kat Saenz Productions | @katsaenzproductions

Videographer: Until Forever Films | @Untilforeverfilms

Stationary/Invites: Paper Boutique | @paperboutique

Daniella and Casey’s wedding weekend at Hacienda De Las Palmas was a beautiful celebration of love, family, and unforgettable memories. From the welcome party to the ceremony, and all the way through to their fun-filled reception, it was clear that their destination weekend was filled with thoughtful details and incredible moments.

Whether you’re planning your own destination wedding or just dreaming of one, Daniella and Casey’s celebration is proof that with a little planning and a lot of love, your wedding weekend can be a true reflection of you and your partner.