By: Gayle Liteheart, Founder of Weddings On a Whim
Dreaming of a Clearwater Beach wedding without breaking the bank?
With over two decades of experience, I’ve seen it all and I’m here to share some cost-cutting tips that will help you have a beautiful, memorable wedding while keeping your budget intact. Let’s dive into some frugal and creative ideas for your special day!
Skip the Extras:
Stand and Save
Instead of renting chairs, why not have your guests stand during the ceremony? It’s unconventional but intimate! Since you are standing heart to heart with your guests: we call this a “Heart to Heart” ceremony. Before the ceremony begins, have your officiant invite everyone to stand on either side to make an aisle entranceway – for you to walk through. After you are at the altar, your Officiant would instruct them to form a semi-circle around you for an up-close ceremony.
Location, Location, Location:
Sand Key Beach Park
For any wedding at Sand Key Park for less than 50, the only permit fee you’ll need to pay is $309. This spacious beach offers ample parking and fewer crowds compared to Clearwater’s hotel row, making it an ideal spot to exchange vows without the hustle and bustle.
Officiant:
A Friend Indeed
Save on officiant costs by having a friend or family member get ordained online through Universal Life Church. They can find a ceremony script online and perform the wedding as a heartfelt gift to you. Invite a few guests to share readings, adding a personal touch to your ceremony.
Capture the Moment:
DIY Photography
Chances are, you know someone who dabbles in photography. If not, enlist a couple of family members or friends to capture all the important moments. For future memories, ask someone to videotape the ceremony and celebrations. Someone may enjoy creating a reel for you too.
Public Address System:
Do You Need One?
For gatherings over 15 guests, a portable sound system with a microphone ensures everyone hears the ceremony. However, you can save money by having a male family member or friend officiate, as men’s voices often carry better in outdoor settings. For music, bring a Bose speaker and have someone play tunes from a cellphone. You’ll need songs for the processional, the ceremony, and the exit.
DIY Décor:
Simple and Elegant
Create a heart-shaped altar in the sand to stand in during the ceremony. Purchase wholesale flowers and place them in baskets. As guests arrive, have someone hand them flowers to decorate the heart’s rim. Sprinkle petals in the heart for added beauty, but beware the wind might carry them away.
If You Must Spend:
Budget-Friendly Rentals
If you prefer seating, consider renting chairs to deliver & set up on the beach yourselves. You can often find affordable options that won’t break the bank.
Post-Wedding Gathering:
Picnic Fun
Sand Key Beach Park offers $30 picnic shelters through Pinellas County Parks Department. Celebrate with a cake and cider toast (since alcohol is prohibited), a potluck picnic, or a classic grill-out with hamburgers, hotdogs, and s’mores for dessert.
Alternative Venue:
Backyard Weddings
While backyard weddings are the most affordable, Clearwater Beach doesn’t have many backyards that are permissible & suitable for weddings. However, for 10 or less guests, consider our weekday morning wedding at Indian Rocks Beach for a budget-friendly option at only $195 for the officiant.
