Tips for Planning the Perfect Luxury Elopement in St. Pete, Florida by Sarasota Wedding Photographer Nina Bashaw
Eloping no longer means running off to the courthouse in secret—especially when you’re planning a luxury elopement in the beautiful coastal city of St. Pete, Florida. With its stunning beaches, vibrant arts scene, and luxurious venues, St. Pete is the ideal destination for couples looking to create a chic, intimate wedding experience. As a top rated Sarasota wedding photographer, I’ve had the pleasure of capturing some incredible luxury elopements, and I’m excited to share my top tips for planning the perfect day in this gorgeous locale.
1. Choose the Perfect Location
St. Pete offers a variety of breathtaking venues for a luxury elopement. Whether you envision saying your vows with your toes in the sand, surrounded by tropical gardens, or in a sleek, modern venue, St. Pete has it all. Popular options include:
St. Pete Beach: For those dreaming of a seaside ceremony, St. Pete Beach provides the perfect backdrop. Imagine exchanging vows during a sunset with the Gulf of Mexico as your witness.
The Don CeSar Hotel: Known as the "Pink Palace," this historic hotel combines timeless elegance with modern luxury, making it a popular choice for an upscale elopement.
Sunken Gardens: If you prefer a lush, botanical setting, this 100-year-old garden is a serene and romantic space for an intimate ceremony.
I have been a Sarasota wedding photographer for 13 years so, I’ve seen many couples choose locations that reflect their unique personalities, and St. Pete offers the perfect blend of natural beauty and luxury which of course makes for the most beauitful wedding photos!
2. Invest in High-Quality Vendors
A luxury elopement may have a smaller guest list, but that doesn’t mean you should compromise on quality. In fact, this is the time to splurge on top-tier vendors who will help make your day extraordinary. Here are a few must-haves:
Wedding Planner: Hiring a professional planner is key to ensuring your elopement goes off without a hitch. They’ll handle the details, allowing you to focus on enjoying your day.
Sarasota Wedding Photographer: Don’t skimp on photography! A skilled wedding photographer will capture every meaningful moment and detail of your day, from candid shots during the ceremony to glamorous portraits after. In a place like St. Pete, with its stunning backdrops, having a photographer who knows how to make the most of the location is crucial.
Floral Designer: Luxury elopements often feature exquisite floral arrangements that elevate the overall aesthetic. Whether you’re going for a lush, romantic vibe or modern minimalism, a talented florist can bring your vision to life and will make your wedding photos pop!
3. Create a Customized Ceremony
One of the best parts of an elopement is the flexibility it offers. You can create a ceremony that is deeply personal and unique to your relationship. Consider writing your own vows or incorporating special rituals, such as a sand ceremony or a wine blending ceremony, to symbolize your union. In St. Pete, the backdrop alone adds so much to the mood of your ceremony. Whether it’s the sound of waves crashing on the shore or the tranquility of a hidden garden, let the location guide the tone of your vows. You will look back at your wedding photos with fond memories of such a special time in your lives.
4. Plan a Luxurious Experience
Since you’re likely saving on the guest list, a luxury elopement allows you to invest in an unforgettable experience. Plan a private chef dinner, a yacht cruise, or even a sunset sail to celebrate after the ceremony. St. Pete offers plenty of opportunities for creating magical post-wedding memories, from beachside dining at top restaurants to chic rooftop lounges with panoramic views of the Gulf. Don’t forget to consider accommodation—book a stay at one of the area’s high-end resorts, like The Vinoy Renaissance or the boutique Birchwood Hotel, to make your elopement weekend feel extra special.
5. Time It Right
Timing is everything when it comes to your elopement. For beach weddings, golden hour (the hour before sunset) is the most popular time for couples to exchange vows. The soft, warm light makes for incredible photos and adds a romantic glow to the moment. As a Sarasota wedding photographer, I always recommend couples plan their ceremony around this time to capture the natural beauty of St. Pete, Sarasota, and Tampa in the best light. If you’re eloping in one of the city’s gardens or indoor venues, mid-morning or late afternoon can also offer lovely lighting and fewer crowds, ensuring your ceremony feels private and intimate.
Final Thoughts
A luxury elopement in St. Pete, Florida, offers the perfect combination of romance, style, and stunning scenery. By choosing the right location, working with high-quality vendors, and tailoring the day to your preferences, you can create a one-of-a-kind experience that reflects your love story. Being a Sarasota wedding photographer, I’ve had the honor of capturing many intimate, luxury elopements, and I know how magical they can be when thoughtfully planned. If you’re considering a luxury elopement, St. Pete’s beauty, charm, and elegance make it the ideal destination. Let your imagination run wild, and plan the elopement of your dreams! Tips for Planning the Perfect Luxury Elopement in St. Pete, Florida by Sarasota wedding photographer Nina Bashaw
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Nina Bashaw is fine art luxury elopement and wedding photographer in Sarasota. She specializes in classica and timeless natural light photography with natural posing and genuine smaile. Nina travels throughout Tampa, St. Petersburg, Sarasota, Anna Maria Island, Longboat Key, and surrounding areas for weddings and luxury elopements giving her clients a personalized experience. Contact me for pricing and inquire about availability for 2024 and 2025. Thank you for stopping by my blog and reading about Tips for Planning the Perfect Luxury Elopement in St. Pete,
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