Event Planning in Florida – What You Need to Know

Getting ready to plan an event in the Sunshine State? You’ve picked one of the most exciting places in the country! Florida has everything, from stunning beaches to world-famous theme parks, so it’s a paradise for memories to be made at events. But before you dive into planning headfirst, there are several key things you need to know to make your Florida event a huge success. 

Weather: Your Worst Enemy and Biggest Ally

Those lovely blue skies and pleasant temperatures are just truly breathtaking, but they can also be unpredictable. Summer afternoons produce surprise thunderstorms that arrive faster than you can say “outdoor wedding.” Always have a Plan B, especially for outdoor weddings. 

Set up tents or choose wedding venues with indoor areas.

The good news? Even a brief Florida shower has the effect of cooling things down and giving a pleasant relief from the humidity.

Venue Options That’ll Blow Your Mind

Florida’s venues are extremely diverse. You’ve got beach resorts in Miami, historic plantations in Tallahassee, and everything in between. Theme parks have specialized corporate event venues, and state parks have natural beauty at cheap prices. Farmers markets throughout the state provide fresh, seasonal ingredients for catering. And most beaches allow small wedding ceremonies for the fee of a permit.

If you’re having a family-oriented event, remember there are venues that already have entertainment built in.

Timing Is Everything

Florida’s high season is December to April when snowbirds descend to escape cold temperatures. That means venues are more expensive and dates are more competitive. If you’re on a budget, schedule during the shoulder periods of May-June or September-November. You’ll get better deals and more availability, and the weather is still great.

Logistics and Transportation

Florida is big enough to intimidate first-time event organizers. What is close on a map might actually be a two-hour drive. Factor in travel time when scheduling events that will be held at more than one venue, and always leave room in the budget for tourist traffic, especially near popular sites. 

Parking could be scarce near tourist locations like South Beach or downtown Orlando, so get ahead of this by having shuttle options available or choosing locations with ample parking.

The good news about Florida’s strong event economy is that you will have a wealth of vendor options. From caterers who specialize in fresh seafood to florists who know which tropical flowers hold up to humidity, as well as activity rentals if you want to book a Wesley Chapel water slide.

Florida vendors know the particular challenges involved with Florida events. 

Making It Memorable

Leverage Florida’s distinctive assets to craft memorable experiences. Integrate local details such as key lime sweets, steel drum rhythms, or cocktail hour at sunset. The beauty of the state is a phenomenal setting that needs little embellishment.

Organizing an event in Florida means embracing the challenges and opportunities offered by this exciting state. With proper planning and insider information, you will come up with an event that captures the spirit of Florida and which will run smoothly from day one.