A Hint of History
How would you describe your wedding personality? If it whispers a hint of history, consider an enduring venue like the 1929 Powel Crosley Estate, named in The Knot’s "Best of Weddings 2010." Make your ceremonial entrance by descending the stone staircase to the loggia edging a lush lawn and sparkling Sarasota Bay.
Live oaks and genteel columns beckon you inside Gamble Plantation Historic State Park, where the grounds, gazebo and front porch of a mid-19th-century mansion invite picture- and vow-taking.
History lives in the details at the South Florida Museum’s Spanish Plaza and Chapel. Wrought-iron gates, a plaza twinkling with lights and the replica 16th-century chapel adorned with stained glass can be used for both ceremony and reception.
A Garden Party
At Palma Sola Botanical Park, the Galleria Building makes a fitting centerpiece. The happy couple can outfit the back lawn with tented tables and reserve Galleria’s interior for dancing. The wrap-around porch, surrounding lakes and plumeria grove create pretty photo ops.
Planning a celebration at Rosa Fiorelli Winery begins with a wine-tasting visit to help couples determine which wines to serve come reception time (and perhaps to inspire a wedding favor: personally labeled, miniature bottles of wine). As for the venue, picture a plein-air pavilion open to the vineyards.
At Lakewood Ranch Golf and Country Club, the look is polished, with outdoor ceremonies set against manicured greens, tall palms and water features.
A Sunset Kiss
The Sandbar Restaurant has perfected barefoot elegance. Wed on the beach; then sit down for dinner beneath an enchantingly lit, open-air pavilion a few sandy steps away. Bonus: In season, the stone crab on the raw bar comes directly from the Gulf beside you. The Beachhouse Restaurant keeps a casual vibe (ask about a steel drum wedding march).
With room to celebrate and stay, area accommodations present a full-service fantasy. Guests of Queen’s Gate Resort can wed on a private beach, host a courtyard reception and house friends and family in cottages, efficiencies and a house.
For a larger gathering, Hilton Longboat Key Beachfront Resort will throw a luau on the beach; create a signature drink with the couple in mind; and provide room for everyone to stay and play together.
Start Planning
Click here for much more information on weddings in Anna Maria Island, Longboat Key, Bradenton and Lakewood Ranch.
