Clearwater Beach Destination Wedding | Hilton Clearwater Beach
Emily and Jesse's Clearwater Beach destination wedding focused on sun, sand and the ocean.
“We live in Pleasant Valley, NY and wanted to do a destination wedding with a beach ceremony and reception,” the bride explained. “Coming from the Hudson Valley of beautiful hills, mountains and valleys, we wanted something different. Not to mention, the beach provides a beautiful background for photographs that you will have forever.”
The couple's beachfront wedding ceremony featured a starfish draped wedding altar and hints of turquoise and coral.
“Jesse and I wanted an intimate wedding. We love to entertain, but in a relaxed atmosphere. Dress code was anything comfortable and shoes were optional,” Emily shared.
The destination bride and groom searched for a Clearwater Beach wedding venue that could host their ceremony and reception, as well as their out-of-town guests.
“We chose the Hilton Clearwater Beach because they had on-site accommodations for all of our guests, offered a beach ceremony and reception and were able to offer us a package for our small group of guests. The food and drink menus were delicious and within our budget,” the bride shared. “It was a great location, not too far from the Tampa International Airport and within walking distance to great shops and restaurants.”
Looking back, the bride shared that her most memorable moment was during her “first look.”
“My adrenaline was pumping, nerves were flowing and the anticipation was off the charts. Finally revealing myself and seeing him privately was very special. Tears were shed from both of us,” Emily reminisced.
What did you look for in a wedding venue?
We had a long list: on-site accommodations, a beach ceremony and reception was mandatory and, of course, within a certain budget.
We chose the Hilton Clearwater Beach because they had on-site accommodations for all of our guests, offered a beach ceremony and reception and were able to offer us a package for our small group of guests. The food and drink menus were delicious and within our budget. It was a great location, not too far from the Tampa International Airport and within walking distance to great shops and restaurants. Our coordinator, Courtney, was very hands on and excellent in communicating with us details and specifics. She made us feel comfortable, which is very important when planning for your big day.
The Proposal:
Jesse proposed while we were vacationing in California. We were in San Francisco and just got back from seeing the Golden Gate Bridge, Alcatraz and riding the cable cars. It was a beautiful day, so we decided to have a snack in one of the parks down by the waterfront. He pretended to get down and tie his shoe and out popped the ring and the million dollar question!
How would you describe your theme?
Beach: sun, sand and ocean. Coming from the Hudson Valley of beautiful hills, mountains and valleys, we wanted something different. Not to mention, the beach provides a beautiful background for photographs that you will have forever. Also, no shoes required is always a plus.
What were your colors?
White, coral and turquoise. We wanted something that popped and screamed beach. They compliment each other magnificently.
What advice would you give to other Tampa Bay Brides?
Do your homework on vendors, read the reviews off of other sites and go to meetings prepared with a list of questions. Ask about the extras and the details that may not be listed. There are great wedding vendors in the Tampa Bay area so choose who you feel most comfortable with and try to have fun with it.
Ceremony and Reception Venue: Hilton Clearwater Beach
Photographer: CLH Images Photography (New York)
Videographer: Celebrations of Tampa Bay
Planner: Confetti Events
Florist: For Better For Less
Cake: Chantilly Cakes
Acoustic Guitarist: Jimmy Moore Guitar
Officiant: Sensational Ceremonies
Dress: David’s Bridal
Hair & Makeup: Karen’s Hair and Makeup Artistry
