A Romantic Vintage Wedding in Grayton Beach

Callie and Cody’s destination wedding in Grayton Beach, Florida looks like something straight out of a classic movie scene.  As I looked through each photo, I was mesmerized and transported to a romantic era of a time gone by.   And I’m not exaggerating.  This wedding was absolutely amazing, and I could not wait to share it with you.  The couple was joined by 120 friends and family for a lovely ceremony on the beach, followed by a reception in one of the most unique venues I’ve seen.  Their reception took place on the gardens at Monet Monet.  The venue, which is beautiful all on its own, was decorated with lots of elegant crystals, candles, and flowers in a soft neutral color palette.  The bride was breathtaking in a lace fit and flare gown with a classic sweetheart neckline.  Everything was perfect – all the way down to a unique wedding cake display that looked almost too beautiful to eat!  I could go on and on about this one, but I’ll let the photos speak for themselves.

A giant and euphoric thank you goes to Alena Bakutis Photography, who knocked it out of the ballpark with these gorgeous photos!

Inspiration and Advice from the Bride

How many guests went to your destination wedding?

120

Why did you choose to have your destination wedding at Grayton Beach and more specifically at the Grayt Grounds of Monet Monet?

We visited the venue during our wedding planning weekend and connected with the owner.  It was so unique and they own a catering company which is delicious.

What was your favorite wedding detail and why?

I could never pick! Everything was sooo perfect and more than I could have ever dreamed of.

Was there any tradition that you put a “destination wedding” spin on?

I didn’t want the wedding to have much beach/ocean theme, so we tied this into the rehearsal dinner and welcome party for the guests.  We had the best rehearsal dinner ever! It was a shrimp boil with all the fixins- shrimp, corn on the on, andouille sausages, potatoes, wickle pickles, watermelon, dessert, and fruity drinks! The dinner was just for the wedding party. Then after dinner, all guests were invited to a beach bonfire which welcomed and thanked them for making the long trip to Florida to share our day with us. We had a bonfire, smores, music, and danced in the sand. We lucked out and saw fireworks from our beach site. This is so amazing!!! It was so unique and everyone still talks about it.

What was your favorite part of having a destination wedding in Grayton Beach?

It was so intimate and unique.  It brought our closest friends and family together.  The celebration lasted more than just one night, as we celebrated before and after!!

What was the most memorable part of your wedding day?

It was more emotional than I ever imagined it would be for someone who is not super emotional or sensitive.  There is just so much going on, and it hits you while getting ready and walking down the aisle. I’ll never forget the feeling. The groom got me a red rose and had the best man deliver it to the girls’ room while we were getting ready.  My favorite show is the bachelor / bachelorette.  I immediately knew why he got it and of course I said ‘l accept the rose!’ A fun surprise and definitely caught me off guard.

What was the biggest challenge in planning your destination wedding?

Being nervous about the weather, but we couldn’t have asked for any better weather!

What’s your advice to other brides planning a destination wedding in Grayton Beach?

I would definitely recommend making a weekend trip to view and meet potential vendors in person. With all the photo editing that is available, it made me so much more comfortable knowing first hand what I was choosing! Don’t under-estimate the number of guests – who isn’t up for a vacation?!  If you want a big crowd, plan during summer months.  Manly people made it their family summer vacations. We brought all of the decorations with us, and while it was a lot of packing and hauling, I’m so glad we did because it was beautiful and saved money.

Vendors

Photographer:  Alena Bakutis Photography
Cake Designer: A Cupcakery By The Sea
Ceremony Location: Grayton Beach
Reception Venue: Great Grounds of Monet Monet
Floral Designer: it’s a perfect day
Bridal Gown: Maggie Sottero
Bridesmaid Dresses: Wtoo by Watters
Bridal shoes: David’s bridal
Hair: Ciara Kostadin (friend of the brides)
Groom’s Attire: Frews Bridal (Alton, IL)
Band: Scott Rockwood
Invitations and Programs: Paper supply from Cards and Pockets, designed by a friend
Decorations: Craigslist, junk sales!