PRESORTED STANDARD U.S. POSTAGE PAID FERNANDINA BEACH, FL PERMIT NO. 104
FOOD • LODGING • SPIRITS
22 SOUTH 3RD STREET • FERNANDINA BEACH, FL
904-491-3322 thefloridahouseinn@gmail.com • FloridaHouseInn.com
MEAGAN GAINES PHOTOGRAPHY MEAGAN GAINES PHOTOGRAPHY
a preferred coastal wedding destination. Choose between the sparkling Atlantic Ocean or the 18th fairway as your backdrop. Our creative eye for style, extreme attention to detail and commitment to flawless execution sets this coastal nuptial paradise above the rest. Whether you envision an intimate wedding or a weekend of activities with
friends and family, our planner will work closely with you to customize your special day. Armed with a passion for making a couple’s wedding extraordinary and stress free, The Golf Club of Amelia Island is committed to making every moment memorable for newlyweds, from the first appointment to the last dance.
The Golf Club of Amelia Island • 4700 Amelia Island Parkway • Amelia Island golfclubofameliaevents.com | 904.277.0021 | events@golfclubofamelia.com OCEANFRONT VACATIONS • WEDDINGS • GOLF • CORPORATE EVENTS
capturing speciall moments for a lifetime of memories...
pambellphotography.com 904.277.9681 weddings, children, families & more AMELIA ISLAND WEDDINGS 1
HOLLY ALLAIN PHOTOGRAPHY
LETTER FROM THE
With each issue of Amelia Island Weddings Magazine, we have the distinct pleasure of showcasing one of the most momentous occasions that life offers: a wedding celebration. It gives us great pleasure to present in these pages some of the wonderful couples who began their new lives together right here on Amelia Island. These uplifting stories of love are always inspiring. Wedding stories such as these document an important rite of passage in life. Couples leave behind their former lives to enter together into a new one, a life that brings new challenges and new joys. For friends and family members, and for us, sharing this experience is very special. It is a time of great hope. Perhaps that’s why people love to look through bridal magazines. The beauty of the occasion shines through in every wedding, large or small, lavish or simple. In this issue, we are happy to share with you some of the special stories of couples who created their scrapbook of unforgettable memories right here on Amelia Island. As we have noted before, Amelia Island is one of the top destinations wedding spots in the United States, and that’s no longer a surprise to anyone who lives here. Amelia Island is blessed with historic churches and stunning
2 AMELIA ISLAND WEDDINGS
Editor
natural beauty. Couples can enjoy an oceanfront ceremony or reception, panoramic marsh vistas that run out to the Intracoastal Waterway—which can include an unforgettable sunset in the early evening—or beautifully manicured golf course greenery against a backdrop of old oaks. All of these romantic settings can be enjoyed at the many wonderful venues here on the island. One reason why Amelia Island is such a popular place to get married is that a couple can really have the wedding of their dreams here, whatever their dream may be. In this issue, we have the pleasure of featuring one couple in which the bride has been vacationing on Amelia Island with her family for many years. After all those happy memories, she dreamed that one day she would get married on Amelia Island, and this spring that dream came true. Unlike other recent issues that have featured as many as five couples who were either from Amelia Island or had family connections here, the other four couples in this issue were drawn to the unique character of Amelia Island and its venues. As always, Amelia Island, with its charm and its superlative amenities, attracts couples looking for a memorable wedding experience. We would like to congratulate these five couples, who began their lives together on Amelia Island, and we wish them all well. We hope you will enjoy reading this issue of Amelia Island Weddings as much as we enjoyed putting it together. Whether you’re a resident, a frequent visitor, or a newcomer to Amelia, we trust that you will see the extraordinary wedding possibilities available to you on this lovely 13-mile-long barrier island.
STAFF Philip Kelly Deana Basile Kelly Publishers Deana Basile Kelly Editor Tom Barrett Art Director Karen Miller Julie Simmons Teri Sopp Dickie Anderson Marla McDaniel Contributing Writers
CONTACT US Sweetpea Media, Inc. P.O. Box 16624 Fernandina Beach, FL 32035 904-277-8012 islander@ameliaislander.com www.ameliaweddingsmag.com
Amelia Island Weddings Magazine is published twice a year in Spring and Fall. All editorial contents including maps and photographs are copyrighted 2020 Sweetpea Media, Inc. Reproduction of any material contained herein in any manner, in whole or in part, is prohibited without the express written consent of the publisher. Unsolicited manuscripts, photographs or other artwork cannot be returned unless accompanied by a self-addressed stamped envelope. No responsibility is assumed for unsolicited materials. The cover and the magazine’s contents are fully protected and may not be reproduced without the written permission of the publisher. Amelia Island Weddings Magazine is distributed free of charge on and around Amelia Island. Back issues may be purchased from the publisher for $2 per copy plus postage if sent through the mail.
Features SUMMER/FALL 2020
14 THE WEDDING CELEBRATION OF 8 FOR YOUR DREAMS, MAKE IT AMELIA Amelia Island is the ideal backdrop to create romantic and unforgettable memories of your special day.
STORY 14 COVER Having grown up vacationing on Amelia Island, Mary Crit Smith knew she would marry here, so just before Florida entered its coronavirus shutdown, she and Eric Bracy gathered family and friends for a celebration at The Ritz-Carlton, Amelia Island.
18
WEDDING STORIES 18 ISLAND Four recently married couples share their unique
28
wedding stories.
32
SPOTLIGHT: 28 VENUE OYSTER BAY YACHT CLUB Located on the Intracoastal Waterway, Oyster Bay Yacht Club offers expansive views of the water, a canopy of live oaks, and a relaxed Southern ambience, with enough room inside and out to host weddings of any size.
THE PERFECT GOWN 32 FINDING An overview of some of the latest trends in wedding gowns to help you find the perfect dress.
AMELIA ISLAND WEDDINGS 3
30
Inside
SUMMER/FALL 2020 CHECKLIST 6 WEDDING A helpful list of things to do and when to do them.
36
SCRAPBOOK 26 WEDDING A peek into the wedding albums of some
38 40
recent brides and grooms
30 JEWELRY Evoking emotion,
expressing style, and creating important symbols, jewelry has power, especially a wedding ring, says Lindy Kavanaugh of Lindy’s Jewelry.
TRENDS 36 WEDDING IN 2020 If you need just a small bit of advice to plan your wedding, consider virtual wedding planning, says Lisa Presnell of Lisa Presnell Productions.
& DÉCOR 38 DESIGN As wedding flowers trend towards seasonal and tropical, the color palette this season turns bold, with classic blues and brightly colored tropicals.
40 CATERING A checklist to help you find your caterer 42 HONEYMOONS Romantic accommodations, fun activities, and superior dining
44 DIRECTORY Names, addresses, phone numbers, and websites of people who can make your wedding a complete success.
ABOUT THE COVER Mary Crit Smith before her wedding to Eric Bracy. Photo by Kylene & Ryan Studios
4 AMELIA ISLAND WEDDINGS
42
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DallasBrasier@gmail.com AMELIA ISLAND WEDDINGS 5
Amelia Weddings 12+ MONTHS PRIOR ■ ■ ■ ■ ■ ■ ■ ■ ■ ■ ■ ■ ■ ■ ■ ■
Propose! Research rings and stones to choose engagement ring. Set an initial budget Determine what type of ceremony you want (church/religious group/ justice of peace) Determine the type of reception you want (day/evening, indoor/outdoor, formal/casual) Select a target wedding date and back-up dates Select location of wedding (hometown/destination/resort) Research availability of reception venues, according to the location and wedding type you’ve chosen Determine size of reception and draw up preliminary guest list Decide if you want a bridal party and, if so, how large Reserve venue as soon as possible, especially if you’re planning a large wedding If planning a destination wedding, collect lodging information for guests Interview and choose caterer Start to research bridal gowns/bridesmaids’ dresses/tuxedos or groom’s clothing Interview and choose wedding planners/photographers/ videographers/musicians Visit bridal shows
SIX TO NINE MONTHS PRIOR ■ ■ ■ ■ ■ ■ ■ ■ ■ ■ ■
Refine guest list with families Purchase the bride’s gown and groom’s attire Confirm guests lodging for destination wedding Purchase the bridesmaids’ dresses Shop for dress accessories (veil, jewelry, other accessories) Go over music program for both ceremony and reception Research destinations for honeymoon Interview and reserve florist Order the wedding cake, if not provided by caterer Start planning rehearsal dinner and reserve a restaurant Arrange for wedding party transportation to the wedding (limousines, horse & carriage, vans)
FOUR TO SIX MONTHS PRIOR ■ ■ ■ ■ ■ ■ ■ ■
Check requirements for blood test and marriage license in your state Shop for wedding rings Select and order invitations and stationery Make sure that men’s attire has been ordered Complete the guest lists Send your engagement announcement to the newspaper Inform mothers to select their dresses Finalize honeymoon details and make the necessary reservations
TWO TO FOUR MONTHS PRIOR ■ Confirm the menu and catering details with caterer ■ Prepare all maps and directions for the ceremony and reception ■ For a destination wedding, collect info on local activities and restaurants for guests ■ Select your wedding rings ■ Buy a wedding guest book ■ Set the dates and times for rehearsal with the person officiating marriage ■ Plan the bridesmaids’ luncheon or any other parties ■ Plan the design and printing if you choose to have a program for the ceremony ■ Finalize details with florist, musicians, photographer, videographer, etc.
6 AMELIA ISLAND WEDDINGS
WEDDING PLANNING CALENDAR
■ Arrange the necessary accommodations for out-of-town guests ■ Confirm rehearsal dinner time and place ■ Confirm the wedding cake details with baker
SIX TO EIGHT WEEKS PRIOR ■ ■ ■ ■ ■ ■ ■
Mail invitations and announcements Prepare a portrait if planning a newspaper announcement Set appointment with photographer for formal bridal portrait Select gifts for your attendants Ask family or wedding party members to prepare speeches or toasts Set appointments with any hairdressers and/or makeup specialists Hire the limousine or other form of transportation
FOUR TO SIX WEEKS PRIOR ■ ■ ■ ■ ■ ■ ■ ■ ■ ■ ■
Update the expected number of guests with caterer Buy a gift for your intended Schedule a final fitting for gown Purchase a going away outfit Pick up your wedding rings Purchase or borrow all wedding accessories, such as ring pillow, goblets, candles, etc. Confirm florist details and delivery times Plan the seating for the reception as well as other details for the ceremony Write placement cards or table assignments Make sure that all bridesmaids’ attire has been fitted Meet with d.j. or musicians to confirm reception music: first dance, parent dances, wedding party
TWO WEEKS BEFORE ■ ■ ■ ■ ■
Make arrangements for wedding gifts to be safeguarded and transported Handle business and legal details such as name changes, address changes, etc. Reconfirm your guests’ accommodations Check all clothing and accessories for you and bridal party Get marriage license and any blood tests
ONE WEEK BEFORE ■ ■ ■ ■ ■ ■ ■ ■ ■
Review any seating details with ushers Make sure all wedding attire fits Finalize the seating arrangements with caterer Reconfirm honeymoon reservations and start packing Call any guests who have not responded, and give final head count to caterer Finish all the place cards for reception Confirm dates with musicians and vocalists Delegate wedding day responsibilities to reliable individuals Wrap and present the wedding party gifts
O N E D AY B E F O R E ■ Get a manicure or massage to relax ■ Stay with family or friends the night before and get to sleep early ■ Review and rehearse all the details with your participants
T H E B I G D AY ■ ■ ■ ■ ■
Rest and Relax with a good bath Allow yourself plenty of time to get dressed Be sure to eat properly Leave plenty of time for hairdresser and makeup appointments Enjoy your wonderful day and cherish every moment!
TAKE A
BITE OUT OF AMELIA!
FOR YOUR NEXT EVENT ON AMELIA ISLAND
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Available for weddings, rehearsal dinners, and bridal luncheons. On Amelia’s Secluded South End Florida Properties Offering On-Site Check In For One, Two, and Three Bedroom Luxury Oceanfront Condominiums and Two Oceanfront Pools. 4800 Amelia Island Parkway | 904.261.0511 ameliasurfandraquetclub.com
WE NOW OFFER OFF-SITE CATERING 4924 ½rst coast hwy •904.310.6620 www.barzin-bistro-winebar.com palmetto walk shopping village AMELIA ISLAND WEDDINGS 7
PAM BELL PHOTOGRAPHY
ISLAND PHOTOGRAPHY JENSEN BELL PHOTOGRAPHY
Amelia Island
F O R T H E W E D D I N G C E L E B R AT I O N O F Y O U R D R E A M S , M A K E I T A M E L I A By Karen Miller
Amelia Island is beckoning you! Considered one of the finest wedding destinations in the Southeast, this charming island paradise with its warm community welcomes brides, grooms, their families, and friends with outstretched arms. The beauty of nature is on full display here, with live oaks draped with Spanish moss, salt marshes, gorgeous maritime forests, and five state parks of unspoiled wilderness. With so many places to tie the knot, from intimate ceremonies on the beach to spectacular venues worthy of a weekend-long destination wedding, every couple will find exactly what they need to create the wedding of their dreams. Amelia Island boasts 13 miles of pristine beaches, framed by the beauty of the Atlantic Ocean and the Intracoastal Waterway. But that’s just a small part of what Amelia is all about. The city 8 AMELIA ISLAND WEDDINGS
of Fernandina Beach is rich in history, featuring eclectic shops, restaurants, museums, and galleries, with lots to do to keep your wedding guests entertained throughout the weekend. Golfing, biking, shelling, birding, fishing, surfing, and boating are just a few of the myriad of activities available. Your destination wedding will be a fun-filled and luxurious vacation for all your guests! Plan a rehearsal dinner at one of Fernandina Beach’s outstanding restaurants, a charming ceremony in a cozy courtyard, or a reception at a world-class resort. From historic churches and charming bed and breakfast inns to grand ballrooms and magnificent outdoor spaces, this treasured paradise offers something for everyone, with personalized service and attentive, creative wedding planners.
TRADITIONAL ELEGANCE For the perfect destination wedding, Omni Amelia Island Plantation Resort has the world-class amenities you’re looking for, plus detail-oriented professionals who will create an experience you and your guests will remember for a lifetime. To make your weekend unforgettable, we can offer you a Bridal Spa Day, Groom’s Golf Outing, Welcome Reception, Beach Fire, and Rehearsal Dinner. The list of possibilities is virtually endless, and our staff will help you create your own personal, magical event. The Omni Resort will house your guests in luxury and comfort, with the beauty of the ocean at your doorstep. Menus are available to suit every level of elegance and budget, and their chefs will produce wedding cakes your guests will rave about for years. To see all that Omni Amelia Island Plantation has to offer, contact the Wedding & Event Department for a property tour. For an elegant wedding celebration that will sweep you back in time to the luxury of a by-gone era, try The Ribault Club. Located on beautiful Fort George Island just south of Amelia, The Ribault Club began as a luxurious winter retreat for wealthy industrialists in the late 1920’s. A fantastic circular drive leading up to the elegant Georgian facade of the clubhouse makes for a fabulous entrance and exit for the bride and groom. Surrounded by ancient live oaks dripping with moss and towering palm trees, the exquisitely restored historic building, made of wood and white painted brick with French windows and green shutters, is the perfect setting for a stunning wedding. Designed in a horse-shoe shape with a ballroom on one end and a dining room on the other, the club offers a variety of different spaces, including a covered verandah overlooking the lush shaded lawn and the Fort George River. A series of smaller salons can provide a perfect place to store gifts, or a place for kids to gather and watch a movie during a reception. To create a truly memorable event, General Manager Chrissy Radney and wedding coordinator Angie Martino will help you with every detail of your special day. Oyster Bay Yacht Club, a private yacht club and marina, is an exquisite destination for weddings, receptions, rehearsal
LEAH POWELL PHOTOGRAPHY
PAM BELL PHOTOGRAPHY
dinners, and corporate retreats. Nestled among canopied oak trees with expansive water views, the stunning clubhouse boasts 7,500 square feet of combined venue space. Whether it’s a casual coastal wedding marsh-side on the Oyster Deck or formal exchange of vows at sunset overlooking the marina, Oyster Bay Yacht Club can effortlessly accommodate your every need. The wedding party and guests can even arrive by water taxi from historic Fernandina Beach. From extravagant galas to intimate get-togethers, Terrie Sanders and the courteous staff will help you create an unforgettable event at this enchanting location. The Golf Club of Amelia Island is a luxurious private golf club that provides the perfect venue for a wedding of any style. The Club Terrace, with its moss-draped oaks, overlooks the beautifully maintained golf course. The Clubhouse itself offers a magnificent view of the 18th green and embraces its country club flair in its elegant Fireplace Room. In addition, the Beach Club offers a stunning poolside location overlooking the Atlantic Ocean. For an ideal Amelia Island destination wedding, a couple might enjoy the Beach Club for a rehearsal dinner, a wedding ceremony on AMELIA ISLAND WEDDINGS 9
COURTESY SEASIDE AMELIA HOTEL
COURTESY OF GOLF CLUB OF AMELIA
OYSTER BAY YACHT CLUB PHOTO BY PAM BELL PHOTOGRAPHY
the Club Terrace or Lawn, followed by dinner and dancing at the Golf Clubhouse. This allows the opportunity to experience the variety of settings that The Golf Club of Amelia Island has to offer. The club is also available for bridal teas and luncheons, welcome receptions and golf outings. At the 48-acre Sugar Pointe Estate, you’ll feel the magic of this incredible secluded setting. With wildlife, 2,500 feet of waterfront, and century-old oak trees, you’ll feel like you’re in luxurious “Old Florida.” Sugar Pointe has a spring-fed lake, a 1,000-foot pier and boathouse on the Bells River, and a lighted horse pasture that’s perfect for outdoor parties. The River House has water views from the front porch and an outdoor fireplace on the back porch. The 2,500-square-foot party barn (the “Sugar Shack”) is the ultimate party spot, with a full kitchen, a stage, a hardwood dance floor, and a deck overlooking the lake. The pier has a 500-sq-ft boathouse with a rooftop deck with unparalleled views of manatees, dolphins, and dunes, with a sound system for entertaining. The estate also has a renovated and customized Airstream trailer as a fun and unique additional guest house. Sugar Pointe is a private setting of pristine natural beauty with spectacular modern amenities, perfect for your ultimate, one-of-akind wedding, party, or special event. 10 AMELIA ISLAND WEDDINGS
OCEAN ATMOSPHERE Right across from the beach is Amelia Hotel at the Beach, a beautiful Mediterranean-style hotel with plenty of room for your wedding guests at a great value. This charming, centrally located hotel features spacious rooms, many with oceans views. Their Terrace Suite is the perfect place to spend your honeymoon night with its king bed, Jacuzzi tub, and private oceanview balcony. Ask about their meeting rooms if you plan a small, intimate ceremony or reception up to 60 guests. The hotel wedding coordinator will assist you in creating a memorable event tailored to fit your expectations, the comfort of your guests, and your budget. According to the hotel’s wedding coordinator, the Amelia Hotel at the Beach “loves” weddings. “We help plan the event and focus on the details so the bride and groom can enjoy their day whether it be indoors or on the beach.” Located in the heart of Main Beach, Salt Life Food Shack is the perfect destination for your next event. With panoramic ocean views, a rooftop deck, and a beautifully decorated interior, their space is the perfect backdrop for your memorable reception, shower, or anniversary party. Choose from an eclectic menu that caters to all tastes, with a wide array of specialty menu items including sushi and fresh seafood, or work with our seasoned staff to customize a menu to fit your specific needs. Salt Life Food Shack can easily accommodate from 20 to 300 people, and they offer both parking and valet. Salt Life Food Shack is an extension of the Salt Life brand, a widely recognized sub-culture amidst avid divers, surfers, fishermen and everyone who loves the sound of surf, sand in their shoes, and beautiful seas. For more information, visit www.saltlifefoodshack.com. On the Atlantic Ocean at Main Beach is the Seaside Amelia Inn. The inn’s 47 comfortable guest rooms or one-bedroom suites are elegantly appointed and include flat screen televisions, microwaves, mini-refrigerators, and Internet access, with oceanfront, pool, or sunset views. A complimentary breakfast is also included. The Seaside Amelia Inn boasts a rooftop terrace with panoramic views of the ocean for receptions or events, as well as reception rooms for smaller groups or events. Enjoy a wedding ceremony on the beach and entertain your guests on the rooftop terrace, the outdoor courtyard, or the pool deck. For honeymoon or guests’ lodging, the Amelia Surf & Racquet Club offers one-, two-, or three-bedroom condominium suites with private balconies overlooking the beach. With magnificent views of the Atlantic, direct access to a private
beach, and two pools overlooking the sandy beachfront, a stay at the Amelia Surf & Racquet Club gives its guests an oceanfront vacation experience. Each suite is professionally decorated and offers amenities such as cable television, a full-sized kitchen, and washer and dryer. Free tennis on clay surface courts is included, and local golf courses, restaurants, and plenty of activities are all within minutes of the resort. AND THAT’S NOT ALL Also in the heart of historic downtown Fernandina Beach is The Florida House Inn on South Third Street, the oldest continually operating hotel in Florida. The Florida House Inn has undergone a painstaking historic restoration and features beautiful heart pine floors, a 350-year old live oak tree, an immaculate courtyard and gardens, original fireplaces, string lighting throughout the courtyard, a beautiful mermaid fountain, and 17 luxurious guest rooms. The courtyard can accommodate weddings of up to 200 people, and the inside dining room is perfect for rehearsal dinners and dinner events, all featuring the Inn’s delicious Southern cuisine. The Mermaid Bar offers live entertainment and it is a great spot to enjoy after the ceremony or reception. Dana Schefke is ready to help you with all of your wedding planning needs. Joe’s 2nd Street Bistro, located in the heart of the historic downtown, can also graciously accommodate wedding receptions, rehearsal dinners, and private parties. Joe’s has ample seating room upstairs and down, with a second-story porch that overlooks the Fernandina Beach harbor, as well as a lush, New Orleans-style
courtyard. Their helpful staff will help you design the perfect menu of carefully prepared and delicious food for your wedding celebration, and Joe’s has an excellent wine cellar to compliment whatever menu you choose. Of course, being by the beach also means enjoying the casual beach atmosphere like at The Crab Trap in historic downtown Fernandina Beach. Located on South 2nd Street, this restaurant is a great place for a rehearsal dinner or small reception. The Crab Trap has been a local favorite for 26 years. Owned and operated by the Germano family, The Crab Trap’s nautical décor, friendly service, and great food make it the perfect place for a special Fernandina Beach celebration. The Crab Trap serves fresh local seafood, as well as steaks, lobster, chicken, and oysters. With banquet facilities, a private dining room overlooking the Intracoastal Waterway, two full bars, and two fireplaces, The Crab Trap can accommodate your every need. Nestled under the live oaks in Palmetto Walk, Bar Zin is a chic neighborhood bistro that’s all about having fun with family and friends, while enjoying great American bistro food and wine. What better place for a very special gathering of friends and family? With an outdoor brick-paved courtyard under the canopy cover of the live oaks, as well as a wraparound porch and elegant dining room and bar, the indoor and outdoor spaces are ready to welcome small intimate parties, or larger gatherings of up to 49 people. (The courtyard can hold another 49.) Whether it’s a rehearsal dinner, a bridal luncheon, a small reception, or just a gathering of friends, owner Tim Seyda’s passion for excellent wine
COURTESY SALT LIFE FOOD SHACK
FLORIDA HOUSE INN PHOTO BY PAM BELL PHOTOGRAPGY
COURTESY BAR ZIN BISTRO
COURTESY JOE’S 2ND STREET BISTRO
AMELIA ISLAND WEDDINGS 11
COURTESY THE BARN AT COTTONWOOD RANCH
and food and his attention to detail promise to make every event one to remember. Located inside a charming historic building on N. 3rd Street in historic Fernandina Beach, Cafe Karibo offers a fun and relaxed atmosphere, with several different areas from which to choose. Indoors, you’ll find colorful furnishings in a comfortable environment, as well as the laid-back bar at Karibrew, the restaurant’s own brew pub. Outdoors, a large garden patio is shaded by huge oak trees for wonderful al fresco experience. On the spacious second floor, Café Karibo can accommodate any event. Whether for business or just plain fun, Café Karibo can help with any occasion you are planning. Rehearsal dinners, holiday parties, corporate functions, family reunions, we do it all! Café Karibo has the amenities to ensure that every guest has a memorable experience. At POGO’s Kitchen, the outstanding staff welcomes the opportunity to host your special event in their private dining room. POGO’s Kitchen is a bright, open eatery seamlessly blending the casual and refined with a full medley of southern flavors, simple cocktails, and extensive wine selections. You’ll find the perfect mix of ambiance and attentive service to create a unique and memorable event, so visit POGO’s Kitchen to celebrate every occasion with style. They can accommodate rehearsal dinners, bridal showers, bachelorette parties, or a special dinner with outof-town guests. Try something different, at POGO’s Kitchen on Amelia Island. For more information, call (904) 432-8483, email events@pogoskitchen.com, or visit www.pogoskitchen.com. Set on 760 sprawling acres, The Barn at Cottonwood Ranch is a one-of-a-kind venue with large windows and a grand front porch set on a ranch amidst beautiful ponds, lush pasture, and ancient hardwoods. Owners Karen and Larry Brantley have created a stunning space for weddings, anniversaries, and other 12 AMELIA ISLAND WEDDINGS
PAM BELL PHOTOGRAPHY
COURTESY THE GOLF CLUB AT NORTH HAMPTON
special events, and it’s the perfect environment for a secluded and exclusive celebration. The Barn was built using hand-hewn cypress, a repurposed syrup kettle fire pit, and reclaimed railings from a 19th-century bank, creating an elegant space with clean lines, natural tones, and an open feeling. The venue also includes a bridal lounge, groom’s lounge, downstairs bar, commercial kitchen, an onsite smokehouse, and a large gas fire pit. With room for up to 299 guests on its secluded setting, your guests will enjoy a celebration they’ll never forget. The natural setting at The Golf Club at North Hampton provides a beautiful backdrop to start your happily-ever-after. Our Clubhouse is the perfect wedding and reception venue for celebrations of any size, from an intimate ceremony to a large party. With full-service catering and customized wedding packages available, our friendly and experienced staff will assist you every step of the way, from table settings to the cutting of the cake. In addition, The Golf Club at North Hampton, with its Arnold Palmer signature golf course, is the perfect place for the groom’s wedding weekend golf outing. For more information or to book a tour, please contact Events Manager AnnMarie Ellsworth. WHATEVER YOUR HEART DESIRES Whether shaded by a canopy of ancient oaks, overlooking scenic marshes, or on a pristine beach, Amelia Island provides the perfect natural backdrop to an unforgettable wedding celebration. With its Southern charm, vivid history, great natural beauty, and abundant activities, it’s a great place for a one-ofa-kind wedding. And the many gracious establishments here on the island are ready to help you create a wedding—on any scale—that is perfect for you.
A Beautiful Smile The Ultimate Bridal Accessory Laurie A. Kitson, DMD | Joshua O. Bietenholz, DMD | Steven A. Garrett, DMD | Jennifer L. Mokris, DMD
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1947 Citrona Drive | Fernandina Beach, FL 32034 | 904.261.7181
$,6 32575$,76
HISTORIC ELEGANCE and SOUTHERN CHARM
$,6 32575$,76
THE SETTING IS A PAGE FROM HISTORY WITH A GRACIOUS CLUBHOUSE ESTABLISHED IN 1928. OUR VENUE IS TUCKED AWAY ON A PRISTINE WATERFRONT PARKLAND, AMONG MAJESTIC OAKS. The Ribault Club offers Coordination Services that will Create, Design and Manage The Wedding of your Dreams.
Choose from Our Private Dining Room Upstairs Overlooking Historic Downtown or Our New Orleans-Style Garden for Your Rehearsal Dinner or Small Reception Extensive Wine List & Full Bar Available Open for Lunch & Dinner 6 Days a Week • Closed Tuesday
General Manager, Chrissy Radney
www.TheRibaultClub.com
(904) 251.1050 Fort George Island Cultural State Park, Jacksonville, Fl
AMELIA ISLAND WEDDINGS 13
Mary Crit & Eric POGO’S KITCHEN T H E R I T Z - C A R LT O N , A M E L I A I S L A N D By Julie Simmons
Photography by Kylene & Ryan Studios
It was the weekend this spring when Florida was entering
enjoyed time as a family, and I knew that I’d one day have my
its coronavirus shutdown “new normal” that Mary Crit Smith and
wedding where I made these memories.” When Mary Crit said
Eric Bracy introduced their own new normal as Mr. and Mrs. Eric
“yes” to Eric in December 2018, the planning commenced with
Bracy. It was a forever dream-come-true for the bride to say “I do”
John Gandy Events, and the team did an extraordinary job of
on Amelia Island, and the couple enjoyed a wedding celebration
treating guests to the best of Amelia Island.
weekend here that they will always cherish.
The couple welcomed loved ones to town beginning Thursday
“I grew up coming to Amelia Island on vacations,” smiles
of the wedding weekend with a party at the bride’s aunt and uncle’s
Mary Crit. “At The Ritz-Carlton or Amelia Island Plantation, we
oceanfront home. The crowd fell in love with Amelia Island’s
14 AMELIA ISLAND WEDDINGS
beaches and quaint downtown while enjoying their stays at The Ritz-Carlton, Amelia Island and Hampton Inn & Suites Harbor Front in downtown Fernandina Beach. Following the kickoff party, the couple and their parents enjoyed dinner at David’s Restaurant and Lounge. On Friday, the ladies shared a bridal luncheon at Bar Zin Bistro & Wine Bar, while the gentleman took advantage of Amelia Island’s excellent golf courses. When evening rolled around, the wedding party gathered at POGO’s Kitchen for a private dinner that included the bride’s favorite – local Fernandina Beach shrimp. “We had a big guest list and we were searching for venues to make the most of our moments,” says Mary Crit. When the duo found POGO’s Kitchen and their accommodating staff, they knew they’d met their match. “We wanted to be with our family and friends, and the team at POGO’s offered every opportunity to make this a reality.” “After the rehearsal dinner, the rest of the wedding guests joined the bride and groom for a welcome party,” explains POGO’s general manager Brooke Kirkpatrick. “The Bracys wanted the venue for themselves, so we adjusted our hours and made that happen. We take pride in being able to meet almost any customization customers request from party equipment, food, beverage, and more.” AMELIA ISLAND WEDDINGS 15
For this party, POGO’s transformed itself with string lights, firepits for s’mores, and tall tables to enjoy tuna tacos, buffalo eggrolls, and cocktails. “POGO’s said ‘yes’ to anything we asked,” Mary Crit remembers. “They even accommodated our wedding video and customized playlist.” On the wedding day, The Ritz-Carlton, Amelia Island offered exemplary service in the his-and-hers bridal suites with breakfast and champagne. “Anything we asked for, the staff was willing to deliver,” says Mary Crit. Kylene & Ryan Studios captured the first look in photos before the party boarded trolleys bound for St. Michael Catholic Church in historic downtown Fernandina Beach for a full wedding Mass with 250 guests and two adorable, toddler flower girls. Following the ceremony, guests enjoyed a cocktail hour and reception on The Ritz-Carlton’s oceanfront lawn and continued the celebration into the night. “We were thrilled with every detail,” the couple describes. “The cocktail hour was followed by a dinner with Caprese salad, lobster ravioli, filet, and, of course, wedding cake, and everything was more than perfect.” 16 AMELIA ISLAND WEDDINGS
The Ritz-Carlton, Amelia Island took care of every detail, allowing Mary Crit and Eric to relax and enjoy the celebration, including when the couple, both huge University of Florida fans, welcomed some actual baby gators to the party to surprise their guests. Later, entertainment by the Atlanta-based Creativity Band kept the crowd dancing well into the night. Following the reception, nobody wanted to stop, so the party overflowed into the lobby bar, where the couple laughed with their friends until the bartender stopped pouring and the band stopped playing. With COVID-19 looming, the couple opted to postpone their planned honeymoon, and instead stayed a few extra days together at The Ritz-Carlton, Amelia Island before returning home to Miami. “Being newlyweds during quarantine has made us stronger! Twenty-four/seven in a 900-square-foot apartment helped us to get to know each other in new ways, especially being able to see each other working from home. But we are ready to get back to the beach, and we’ll be headed back to Amelia Island this summer!” AMELIA ISLAND WEDDINGS 17
Giovanna & Christopher S U G A R P O I N T E E S TAT E By Karen Miller
Photography by Pam Bell Photography & Jensen Bell Photography
Giovanna Vazquez met Christopher Anderson in May 2015 through an online dating app. Giovanna was attending Gallaudet University, the world’s only university in which all programs and services are designed to accommodate deaf and hard-of-hearing students. “I didn’t tell Chris I was deaf while we were chatting online,” says Giovanna. “When we met for our first date, Chris was surprised, but didn’t shy away from the challenges posed by language barriers and was committed to getting to know me.” Shortly thereafter, Giovanna left for a three-month internship in Minnesota, while Chris took the time to learn American Sign Language for her return, and their second date. Giovanna and Chris were both in college, with Giovanna living in Washington, D.C. and Chris an hour away in Manassas, 18 AMELIA ISLAND WEDDINGS
Virginia. “Chris and I thought it would be a good idea to develop some sort of a bucket list,” says Giovanna. “Things like movies, fishing, wineries, eating at a bed and breakfast, hiking the Battlefields in Bull Run, horseback riding, and drives through the Blue Ridge Mountains.” Their weekend dates were full of love, but eventually Giovanna had to move back home to South Florida for work, and they were only able to see each other once a month. “As tough as that year was, I also believe it was the year I realized just how strong our relationship is,” says Giovanna. “Our love for each other grew each day, and that year proved to the both of us just how strong our bond was.” A respectful young man with traditional values, Chris asked Giovanna’s family for their blessing before he asked her to marry him. Upon their approval, Chris and Giovanna went to
Hollywood, Florida where he proposed to her on the beach before meeting her family for dinner. “We had gone about our day, running errands, all the while Giovanna had no idea how nervous I was,” laughs Chris. “Once we got to the beach, I asked her if she wanted to walk on the beach and she insisted that she was hungry and didn’t have the right shoes on. But I insisted, and she relented. I was shaking all over, and she asked me if I was okay. I looked at her with so much love and excitement and got down on one knee and signed, ‘Will you marry me?’ Before I even got the chance to take the ring out of my pocket, she was signing, ‘YES!’”
For their wedding venue, the couple settle on Sugar Pointe Estate in Yulee, a private, secluded place of pristine natural beauty. “Sugar Pointe had the right aura, the vibe, and the view,” says Giovanna. “It represented both of us, me being from Florida and Chris growing up near the mountains. It was the perfect match.” Their December destination wedding began with a Friday night rehearsal barbecue at Sugar Pointe, which has accommodations for overnight guests, in this case, the couple’s family and wedding party. “We wanted to be able to spend the weekend there so we could relax and enjoy our wedding weekend,” says Giovanna. The wedding was held outside on Saturday at 4 p.m., with the couple’s 100 guests enjoying appetizers and a buffet dinner outdoors before going into the barn for cake cutting, speeches, music, and dancing. Chris and Giovanna found a pastor to preside over their wedding bilingually, using American Sign Language and spoken English. A special part of their wedding ceremony was a tri-cord that was braided and tied. “The three cords represent Chris, me, and God,” says Giovanna. “Our lives are intertwined with God, and the cord is a symbol of our strength.” Their reception had a Christmas theme, and Giovanna made special ornaments for all their guests. The wedding reception went on all hours of the night, but Giovanna and Chris retired early, as they were setting out the next morning for their honeymoon at a small cabin in Georgia. Chris and Giovanna are happily together now, living in Gainesville, where she works as a science research assistant at the National Council for Air and Stream Improvement, and he at an HVAC Company. “Now we have our first child together – a cat,” laughs Giovanna. “Chris wasn’t a big fan at first, but now he loves her. He jokes that her name, NOVA, means Northern Virginia, which is where he is from.” You can follow Giovanna on Instagram at @motherofpearls. AMELIA ISLAND WEDDINGS 19
Kayla & Corey O Y S T E R B AY YA C H T C L U B By Julie Simmons
Photography by Confidence Photography
Kayla Miller and Corey Knight attended high school together, even going to their junior prom as a couple, before parting ways as Kayla went off to the College of Coastal Georgia to play softball and Corey to attend Georgia Southern University. Early in her career as a teacher, while Corey was at Lockheed Martin Corporation and a member of the Air National Guard, they each decided to move home to save money and prepare for the future. Little did either know how much those moves would change their futures, especially since their parents had moved two doors away from each other. “I would see Corey out running,” Kayla smiles, “and I was registered for a 5K race, so I asked him if he’d help me train. We started hanging around as friends, and even went on a three-day cruise to the Bahamas insisting we were only friends,” she laughs. “Then one day, Corey’s mom said, ‘Just start dating already!’” 20 AMELIA ISLAND WEDDINGS
After dating for a while, one day Kayla went to pick up her sleeping niece, Sloan, from her crib and found her wearing a onesie that said, “Can Corey be my Uncle?” After an enthusiastic “Yes!” from Kayla, planning for the wedding began. Kayla was looking for an outdoor ceremony with an indoor reception, and she soon discovered Oyster Bay Yacht Club. “Kayla’s wedding was the first wedding I booked after becoming the Wedding and Events Manager at Oyster Bay,” says Cheyenne Nichols. “From the first minute I met Kayla until she and Corey were running through sparklers to exit their big day, they were an absolute dream to work with!” The couple returned the compliment, and Oyster Bay’s use of a full-time event manager to help coordinate the day made for a wedding celebration as perfect as its setting under canopies of live oaks on the Intracoastal Waterway.
“Kayla knew exactly what she wanted as far as décor goes, and her style with neutral and natural colors looked incredible at OBYC,” says Cheyenne. “Malia Floral Design did a great job on the arrangements, including those on either side of the four-post pergola from Luxe Party Rentals.” That’s where Kayla and Corey tied the knot, just the two of them, before a crowd of 60 loved ones in early February this year. Confidence Photography captured the memories on film, including the room-reveal and the first look for the bride’s father. “You don’t expect it to be as emotional and sweet as it is,” says Kayla, as she reminisces on the day and precious moments like that with her dad. Speaking of dad, he and Kayla had a reveal of their own to make at the reception, after their guests had enjoyed their Southern-inspired meal of Fried Chicken, Shrimp n’ Grits, Collard Greens, Mac n’ Cheese, and Cornbread, along with a wedding cake from Publix. “The two surprised everyone with a wardrobe change and choreographed dance. Instead of your typical slow father/ daughter waltz, they mixed it up with a remix of songs performed in Converse, a jean jacket, and a sparkly dress! And instead of a speech, Kayla’s sister ‘rapped’ her toast! “It was a night to remember,” says Cheyenne. As guests left, Kayla and Corey sent them off with a parting gift for their four-legged family members prepared by Redbones Dog Bakery, symbolizing their love for their dog. To celebrate their “I dos,” Kayla and Corey set out for one more three-day cruise to the Bahamas—this time as husband and wife! AMELIA ISLAND WEDDINGS 21
Katie & Rob
FLORIDA HOUSE INN By Karen Miller Photography by Meg Parmenter, Southern Gem Photobooth
There were no sparks flying for Katie Mihalik when she met Rob Duane. In fact, it was just the opposite. “Rob picked on me,” laughs Katie. “I wasn’t too fond of him at first.” Katie and Rob met through a mutual friend in Jacksonville, when they all went out for drinks one night. It took Katie a while to warm up to Rob, but once they started dating, she realized what a kind and generous soul he really was. Katie was raised by her grandparents, and in 2016, they were having some serious health problems. When Katie traveled to Spain for work, her grandfather passed away, and Rob stepped in to help. “Rob took care of everything for me until I could get back,” says Katie. “My grandmother loved him, and I knew then that he was committed to me and my family.” In March 2018, the couple traveled to Boston, where Rob proposed to Katie on Boston Common, America’s oldest public park. “There was snow on the ground,” says Katie. “It was very romantic!” When the couple began planning their wedding, they knew they wanted to get married on Amelia Island. “We went to downtown Fernandina Beach for “Dickens on Centre” at Christmas time,” says Rob. “We loved the historic district and started looking at places to hold our reception.” The two settled on the Florida House Inn because of its charm and historical significance, and its ability to house their 60 guests. The Florida House is the only hotel in Fernandina Beach to offer a private courtyard for weddings that includes an iron mermaid fountain, string lighting, and a 350-year-old live oak tree. Katie and Rob began their weekend destination wedding with a rehearsal dinner on Friday night at Cafe Karibo. The wedding ceremony began on Saturday at 5:30 p.m., officiated by Justin Brown, a long-time friend. Their wedding party was made up of family and friends, including Rob’s brother John, his best man, and Jessica, his sister-in-law. “Our wedding was a labor of love for the whole family,” says Katie. “Everyone in the family contributed 22 AMELIA ISLAND WEDDINGS
to the decorating, including three women I call ‘my three moms.’ It couldn’t have been more perfect, with the exception of the heat!” It was unusually warm for late October, but by the time the ceremony ended and dinner was served, everyone was enjoying the party. “Chef Matt’s food was amazing,” says Rob. “Everybody at the reception raved about the menu!” Guests feasted on prime rib, shrimp and grits, macaroni and cheese, and an enormous charcuterie board before getting on the dance floor to music provided by Rob’s friend, Matt Maio, a DJ from Ocala. Rob works in law enforcement supply, and with the couple’s sense of humor, they decided to have a donut wall in addition to a traditional wedding cake from Nana Teresa’s Bake Shop. “We decided not to have our reception go on too late, since many of our guests were older, so we ended with a sparkler exit about 9:30
p.m.,” says Katie. “Then we headed next door to the Green Turtle Tavern. We didn’t realize that October 26 was a big wedding day on Amelia Island. There were three other brides and grooms there with their wedding parties! We had so much fun!” Rob’s parents honeymooned in St. Kitts in the Caribbean when they were married, so Rob and Katie decided to continue the tradition. “We took a cruise there in 2017, and we fell in love with the island,” says Katie. “We had a great honeymoon!” Today Katie and Rob live with their three cats in Jacksonville, where Rob works in law enforcement supply and Katie works for an ocean conservancy non-profit. They spend their spare time looking for sharks’ teeth on Ponte Vedra Beach, one of their favorite hobbies. “We’re very good at it,” laughs Katie. “And very competitive, as well!” AMELIA ISLAND WEDDINGS 23
Zoe & Jeremy T H E R I B A U LT C L U B By Karen Miller Photography by She Exposure Photography Zoe Billings and Jeremy Harlas met after a football game while they were students at New Mexico State University. It was their destiny to finally meet, after having lived less than two miles from each other and attending the same elementary, middle, and high schools together. Perhaps their similar backgrounds and neighborhoods are what made the new couple so comfortable with each other, because within a very short amount of time, Zoe and Jeremy knew they were going to be married. “I kept expecting Jeremy to propose. In fact, I was sure he would when we made a trip to Disneyland,” laughs Zoe. “But then he didn’t! He was trying to throw me off. And then when he finally did propose, I missed it!” Jeremy had planned to pop the question in New Mexico at the base of a mountain at sunset. His sister, Lindsey, was hiding nearby with a camera to document their engagement. Jeremy brought along Zoe’s dog, who was wearing a pink tag on its collar that read, “Will you marry me?” But Zoe never noticed the tag and had no idea what was going on, until Jeremy got down on one knee and asked her to marry him. Of course, she said “Yes!” and soon the couple was planning their wedding. After graduation, Jeremy became an engineer and a first lieutenant in the U.S. Army. He is now stationed at Ft. Stewart in Georgia, and the couple lives in Hinesville. Their plan was to have a small wedding somewhere near the ocean, and while they were searching online for just the right venue, they came upon The Ribault Club on Fort George Island, just south of Amelia Island. “We visited the Ribault Club and fell in love all over again,” says Zoe. “The live oaks and marsh views were so beautiful that we didn’t have to look at any other venues. And we really liked their wedding planner, Angie Martino.” “Zoe was a bride with a vision,” says Angie. “We put a plan together and booked vendors that brought to life the style and atmosphere that made their wedding perfect. It was a joy for me to work with such a beautiful couple!” Angie helped Zoe and Jeremy with all the details, including their photographers from She Exposure Photography, wedding cake by The Little 24 AMELIA ISLAND WEDDINGS
Cake Shop, flowers by The Wild Thistle, and catering by Davoli’s Catering Company. Their wedding weekend began with a rehearsal dinner held at a home the couple rented, which featured a shrimp boil, fire pit, and panoramic marsh views. Their 65 guests came from all over the country, staying at various locations on Amelia Island. The wedding was held on a beautiful October evening as the sun began to dip behind the trees, casting a warm glow over their ceremony. The marriage was performed by their friends, Roy and Emily Guerard, and the couple was attended by a small wedding party of groomsmen, bridesmaids, flower girls, and a very special ring bearer, Zoe’s nephew, who insisted he be allowed to wear rainboots for the occasion. The ceremony was bittersweet for Zoe, who lost her grandfather in 2016. “I was so very close to him, and I was sad that he couldn’t be there with us,” says Zoe. But in his memory, Zoe had a piece of his shirt sewed into her wedding dress, and she carried his favorite handkerchief. Even his cowboy hat found a place at the wedding, and that brought Zoe a great deal of comfort. After the ceremony, photos were taken beneath the trees while guests were treated to cocktails and hors d’oeuvres, then it was on to dinner and dancing. “Our DJ, Neal Whitt, was great,” says Zoe. “He got everyone on the dance floor and really kept things moving.” When the party ended shortly before midnight, guests retired to their respective hotel rooms. The next morning, Zoe and Jeremy held a family breakfast and goodbye brunch at The Patio Place, although the couple wasn’t heading on their honeymoon just yet. That would happen in December, when the couple enjoyed a special cruise to San Juan, St. Thomas, and the Bahamas. Today, Zoe and Jeremy are settling into their roles as husband and wife, as Zoe attends pharmacy school in Savannah and Jeremy continues his military career. They look forward to coming back to Amelia Island many times in the future and visiting the Ribault Club again, where they exchanged their wedding vows against a backdrop of ancient oaks and breathtaking marsh views. AMELIA ISLAND WEDDINGS 25
wedding scrapbook
GLADYS & JOSEPH
BURROUGHS MAY 23, 2019
ERIN & JOHN
& THOMAS
FEBRUARY 5, 2020
MARCH 7, 2020
WILLIAMS
BETH
SEIDEL
ANDY ROBINSON, BLACK BOX IMAGERY
JENSEN BELL PHOTOGRAPHY
PAM BELL PHOTOGRAPHY
MICHELE & WILLIAM
APRIL & DOUG
PAULA & JAY
DECEMBER 14, 2018
SEPTEMBER 7, 2019
LOGAN
PAM BELL PHOTOGRAPHY
26 AMELIA ISLAND WEDDINGS
SHOOK
TONI BENNETT PHOTOGRAPHY
BUTTERFIELD
JANUARY 1, 2020
PAM BELL PHOTOGRAPHY
Let the Beach Be Your Something Blue If you’re dreaming of an Amelia Island wedding, let Amelia Hotel at the Beach help you make a lasting memory for you and your guests.
Call Us Today at or visit www.ameliahotel.com
~ Oceanfront Roof Terrace ~ ~ Complimentary Daily “Hot & Tasty” Southern Home-Style Breakfast ~ ~ Complimentary Beach Chairs and Umbrellas ~ ~ Outdoor Pool ~ Free Wi-Fi Internet ~ ~ Located at Main Beach ~
2900 Atlantic Avenue ~ (904) 206-5300 www.SeasideAmeliaInn.com
Celebrating
Years The Crab Trap Restaurant, located in downtown Fernandina Beach on Amelia Island, oŲers fresh local seafood and land-lover entrées including awesome steaks that are sure to satisfy everyone’s tastes. • Open Daily at 4:30pm for Dinner (and seasonally for lunch) • Happy Hour every day until 7pm. Gorgeous view of the Fernandina Beach Marina and Intracoastal Waterway—not to mention, picturesque sunsets!
Our dedicated staff can accomodate any event! Café Karibo has the amenities to ensure that every guest has a memorable experience. Email us today!
Fernandina Beach’s favorite for an unforgettable rehearsal dinner!! Call Us Today at
T.meredith@cafekaribo.com CafeKaribo.com
or visit www.AmeliaCrabTrap.com m
27 N. 3rd Street Downtown Fernandina Beach 904.277.5269
904.261-4749
e
FUN HISTORIC CASUAL e
AMELIA ISLAND WEDDINGS 27
VENUE SPOTLGHT
Oyster Bay Yacht Club By Karen Miller
Photography courtesy of Oyster Bay Yacht Club
So you’ve just said “I do” to your favorite person in the world, and now it’s time to plan your wedding! Happily, Amelia Island is brimming with beautiful wedding venues, and one of the favorites is Oyster Bay Yacht Club, located at the northern tip of Oyster Bay Harbour, exquisitely situated within a maritime forest. The club features expansive views of meandering waterways and Cumberland Island, a full-service bar with dining room, a swimming pool, and wide, covered verandas. Wedding planner Cheyenne Nichols and her assistant Barbara Camp lead a team of talented chefs and staff who will make sure that your upcoming wedding is everything you’ve dreamed of, and more. “One of the things that sets us apart from other venues is that couples don’t need to hire a wedding planner,” says Nichols. 28 AMELIA ISLAND WEDDINGS
“We do everything! Our staff works as a whole. They are warm and welcoming, and that’s what allows us to offer the quality of service that we do.” Oyster Bay Yacht Club can hold 150 to 175 guests comfortably, and it offers many options for couples, from hors d’oeuvres and cocktails to a full sit-down dinner, dancing, and even finding and booking transportation to and from the wedding reception. Ceremony options include their Marsh Canopy for up to 175 guests, Front Lawn for up to 130 guests, and The Portico for up to 60 guests, which features a dose of Southern charm with a perfect arch and expansive views of the Front Lawn. “No matter what time of the day or evening, Oyster Bay’s property is exquisite,” says Nichols. “Our photographers tell us that
SARAHDIPITY PHOTOS
J. MOSLEY PHOTOGRAPHY
Oyster Bay is one of their favorite places to photograph a wedding.” Catering options are very flexible, and Oyster Bay’s chefs are able to accommodate special requests and dietary restrictions. Couples can choose from various hors d’oeuvres, entrees, accompaniments, serving stations, and bar service. Some of their specialties include poached shrimp, colossal crab meat, and half shell oysters, along with a chef-attended carving station featuring roast prime rib with horseradish cream and fresh asparagus. Nichols and Camp offer couples a preferred vendor list, which includes businesses they work with all the time, the very best on Amelia Island and the surrounding area. “We’ll help the bride and groom with much more than just their wedding,” says Nichols. “We make suggestions for their rehearsal dinner, bridal luncheons, welcome party, and more. We have vendor suggestions for flowers, wedding cakes, photographers, music, and transportation.”
“Oyster Bay Yacht Club is the perfect setting for wedding receptions,” says Nichols. “The views are incredible, and the architecture is the epitome of Southern coastal casual elegance. Utilizing the covered verandah and main dining room, we can seat up to 150 guests. The main dining room will accommodate up to 60 guests; it is enclosed with glass windows and doors that open and flow nicely onto a covered verandah that provides additional seating for up to 90. The views from the main dining room and verandah are spectacular, overlooking the pool, marsh, and Intracoastal Waterway!” If you’re interested in holding your wedding at Oyster Bay Yacht Club, contact Cheyenne Nichols at (904) 261-4773. You may also email her at events@oysterbayyachtclub.com or visit their website for more information on their services at www.oysterbayyachtclub.com. AMELIA ISLAND WEDDINGS 29
JORDANN FAZIO
the power of jewelry By Lindy Kavanaugh Photo by Jordann Fazio
Jewelry has meaning. It evokes feelings, creates important symbolism, and helps express your personal style, among other things. Gifts of jewelry are given often as a symbol of personal accomplishments. They act as a constant reminder of these significant occasions when worn, as for example, when someone receives a class ring from their high school or college. Such a ring is attached to an important period in that person’s life, and it perfectly captures a sense of accomplishment in a milestone reached and a host of happy memories. In the same way, when I wear a piece of jewelry that belonged to my mother, it reminds me of my love for her and my connection to her. In these and many other examples, jewelry has become an important part of our human culture, reminding us of people and events that are significant to us and making us feel special. 30 AMELIA ISLAND WEDDINGS
A piece of jewelry can be so personal to the wearer. Although it is sometimes thought to be a symbol of prestige or wealth, I like to think that jewelry is sentimental, symbolic, and spiritual. It has so much to do with how it makes us feel. And let’s not forget the practical uses of jewelry; watches, tie pins, and cufflinks are all pieces that were born out of necessity. And with most practical things, if they are also attractive, they are much more appealing. When we put on a piece of jewelry, we tend to focus on how it looks with a particular outfit or how it fits our personal style. Jewelry is a way to express oneself, complete an outfit, or make a statement. Can anyone imagine Mr. T of The A-Team and Rocky III without his loads of signature gold chain? Wearing talisman jewelry has been a longstanding way to spread good vibes and channel positive energy. It is also a popular trend to layer these pieces that suggest a sense of protection, provide connection with others, and have spiritual or religious meanings. The most intimate accessory that is owned by so many is the wedding ring. A wedding ring is worn as a symbol of love and commitment. In ancient times, it was believed that the vein in the fourth finger of the left hand lead directly to the heart. By wearing a wedding ring, couples acknowledge their marital commitment in a continual way. In the same way, the wedding band is created as a perfect circle that has no end in order to signify that the love of the husband and wife for each other is infinite. In this way, a simple ring can express powerful feelings of love, eternity, marriage, and fidelity. Whether the jewelry you wear and enjoy is expensive or inexpensive, has real gemstones or artificial ones, it really doesn’t matter. Whatever you choose, your jewelry has the ability to act as an important symbol and to communicate genuine sentiment to everyone you encounter.
9900 Amelia Island Pkwy, Suite 200 Just over the bridge on Amelia Island (904) 491-1550 • ScottAndSons.com
Need some direction? AMELIA
110 Centre Street Historic Downtown Fernandina Beach
LAND IS MAP & GUIDE
(904) 277-4880 | www.lindysjewelry.com
A Special Place for Your Special Day Nestled among beautiful gardens, oak hammocks, and lake views, the Amelia Plantation Chapel provides a beautiful setting for your Special Day. For planning details, and availability visit www.ameliachapel.com.
Amelia
ISLANDER
Pick up the Amelia Island Map & Guide for information on great food, fun things to do, and fabulous places to rest. www.ameliaislandfloridamap.com
Pam Bell Photography
M A G A Z I N E
36 Bowman Road Amelia Island, Fl 32034
AMELIA ISLAND WEDDINGS 31
Rosa Clara Bridal encourages you to show off your curves in their Cedric gown, a mermaidstyle dress for brides who love a bold take on tradition. Simple, delicate straps hold up an intricate beaded lace body that is fitted at the waist. A lace skirt overlay hugs the hips before falling neatly into a long mermaid train.
Say “Yes!” to natural beauty with this organicinspired gown from Essence Designs called “Lively.” Its vine-like laces are the focal point of this feminine A-line silhouette, featuring off-shoulder sleeves and a subtle sweetheart neckline.
classics with a modern flair
On the runways this season, wedding gowns are showcasing style favorites and classic looks, but reinvigorating them with a new flair, offering pleats, headbands, and belts. By Julie Simmons Madeleine Vionnet, a legend in French fashion design, once said, “When a woman smiles, the dress must smile with her.” If you are planning your wedding for this year and looking for the perfect gown, what dresses will have you smiling? For 2020, designers are utilizing style favorites, but reframing them with a modern flair, incorporating pleats, tiered skirts, and headbands into their designs. When it comes to folding pleats into the collection, designers are trying it with fabrics from silk and tulle to sheer and solid, in all lengths, making the trend appropriate for any degree of wedding formality. While not crimping the style of pleats, tiered skirts also have a place on the runway this season. Whether you wear them big 32 AMELIA ISLAND WEDDINGS
like a lampshade or skinny from a defined waist, you will see this style spinning across collections this year in almost any fabric you can imagine. And we are all smiles about headbands! This trending wedding hair trend for this year is sort of an updated variation on the sparkly bridal tiara, as some commentators have noted. With padded headbands already popular, brides are beginning to include these retro accessories in their hairstyles for the wedding day, whether as a classic velvet or a more refined bedazzled band. Headbands are one of the more intriguing trends right now, as they can be incorporated whether your hair is up or down, and you can even add a veil if the spirit moves you!
Left: Monique Lhullier’s gown called “Wish” is perfectly named. This lace wedding dress with an illusion neckline is nothing short of a dream, with its sophisticated sleeves and floral lace appliques. Below: Allure Birdal does it again with this sassy statement-making beauty. Sheer, tiered ruffles adorn this ballgown’s skirt with fluidity and structure. The floral belt finishes the gown, making a fashion-forward statement.
Elsewhere, florals are still blooming this year. Floral gowns are beautiful, trendy, and fashion-forward, whether as bold, handpainted florals, all-over watercolor patterns, or even the 3-D blossoms we’ve seen the past couple of seasons. And fluttering above the flowers are butterflies! A natural addition to the floral trends, these gowns add painted or embroidered butterflies. If you choose to finish these fashions with a sheer, flowing veil, the entire presentation is airy and organic. If you’re looking towards a Fall 2020 wedding, florals are even sprouting as large budding earrings. If you’re intrigued by the trends but floral isn’t for you, think about pink gowns, which are vivacious in most every collection today. When it comes to the shape of your gown, this season offers several options. Sleeves are still on the runway, and they are big and puffing up dramatically when worn off the shoulder. For necklines, go modern with a squared style accentuating your collarbone or choose from the abundant halter gowns available to AMELIA ISLAND WEDDINGS 33
Above left: This is one of our favorite gowns this season, in platinum ivory by, Allure Bridal, offering a delicate off-the-shoulder neckline giving way to a timeless ballgown. The waistline features a bow that will make you smile with cascading drapes and netting for a gorgeous presentation. Above: “Wandering” from Pronovias is an exquisite A-line gown with a frothy tulle skirt and V-neck bodice. The hand-embroidered beadwork emits streams of light from waist to shoulders, all the way down the illusion long sleeves. Finishing the look is a pleated train. Stunning! Left: Essence Designs presents a vision for the classic bride. The A-line skirt falls gracefully to the floor, while a wider-cut tulle overlay features floral appliques. The thin, floating lace straps form to an open, lacy v-back detail. This is the perfect garden statement for your spring nuptials.
showcase your shoulders and draw eyes upwards. Cowl necklines are also prominent, and they work well with the flowing gowns floating down the runways this season. On the flipside, bare-back gowns are barer than ever, creating an extremely delicate and sexy presentation, along with the mermaid-style gowns that are prominent this season. For a strong statement, designers suggest you buckle up – with a belt that is. Be it large or delicate, metallic or muted, the wedding belt accentuates the waistline and can highlight the smallest part of the bride’s waist, creating the illusion of an hourglass figure. Pockets also have us grinning from ear to ear! Brilliant this season is the addition of pockets to gowns, perfect for your lip gloss or a tissue to wipe a happy tear from your smiling cheek. We wish every bride plenty of smiles this season as they search for their perfect gown, with hearts full of joy for the wedding day that awaits. 34 AMELIA ISLAND WEDDINGS
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AMELIA ISLAND WEDDINGS 35
virtual wedding planning By Lisa Presnell, PWC
Planning a wedding is no easy task, just ask a wedding planner! That’s me, of course. Organizing a wedding can be a full-time job, and if your real job doesn’t allow you much free time or if you aren’t particularly experienced in planning events, then it only makes sense to hire an expert. Are you planning your own wedding, but perhaps need a little advice from a pro to ensure that you’re on track? Do you need just budget planning assistance? Or maybe you have a firm handle on the planning, but you could use some assistance with design aspects or invitation etiquette? Are you planning a destination wedding and need vendor referrals? Hiring a wedding planner to oversee all aspects of your event can be expensive, especially if you hire a professional. Nonetheless, consulting with 36 AMELIA ISLAND WEDDINGS
a professional can be very important, since trying to manage some things on your own can end up costing you a lot more in the end. Every couple deserves to have a beautifully planned wedding. Don’t worry, help is on the way! Virtual wedding planning can be a cost-effective way to hire an expert to assist you with the details. A virtual wedding planner will ensure that you don’t miss any key components. It is the perfect solution for the couple who is planning a wedding themselves. You get the support and guidance that you need from an expert wedding planner, all from the comfort of your own home or office, poolside, at the beach.... well, you get the idea. It’s wedding planning at your leisure! I didn’t invent virtual wedding planning; versions of it are being offered from wedding planners across the country. Many will offer their expertise over conference calls and video chats. In 2019, I began offering Virtual Wedding Planning services at Lisa Presnell Productions, but I do it a little differently. I want you to enjoy each and every moment leading up to your wedding day, as you should. By using my interactive online planning tool, you can stay organized, enjoy the planning process, and have peace of mind. The professional online planning portal at my website will track your wedding details for you. You will have access to it 24 hours a day! That means you can work on your wedding details at your convenience. It is customized to your wedding, and it includes the following: Customized Planning Checklist, Calendar for your appointments that sync with your Google Calendar, Wedding Weekend Timeline, Design Studio (much like the beloved Pinterest), Guest List and Tracking, Seating Assignments and Diagraming Tool, Vendor Contacts and Payment Tracking, Budget Planning, and a Free Website & Partner Collaboration. It’s every detail in one tidy spot! A virtual wedding planner can’t replace an amazing full-service wedding planner, but couples need options, and virtual wedding planning is a cost-effective option for getting the guidance that you need. Whatever you decide, Happy Planning! Lisa Presnell of Lisa Presnell Productions is one of the top wedding & event planning companies on Amelia Island in the WeddingWire network. For the past SEVEN consecutive years, Lisa Presnell Productions has been named WeddingWire’s Couple’s Choice Awards and recognizes us as amongst the top 5% of wedding professionals nationwide for Excellence in Quality, Service, Responsiveness and Professionalism.
(904) 277-4851 www.elizabethpointelodge.com 98 South Fletcher Ave. @elizabethpointe
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restaurant guide, the best resource for visitors and residents alike to enjoy Amelia Island’s dynamic restaurant scene!
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COMPLIMENTARY DINNER For the Bride-to-be and one guest during our Friday Night Dinner events. Alcoholic beverages, tax and gratuity not included. Offer subject to change.
SCHEDULE YOUR TOUR TODAY! annmarie@gcnorthhampton.com (904) 548-0000 | GCNORTHHAMPTON.com AMELIA ISLAND WEDDINGS 37
AT THE RECEPTION Style of service: American (guests served from plates brought from kitchen), French (guests served individually from platters), Buffet (selfserve at buffet table), family-style ■ Soup? ■ Appetizer? ■ Salad and/or vegetable platter? ■ Will there be a choice of entrees? ■ Any menu substitutions, specially priced children’s meals? ■ Side dishes? ■ Assorted relishes? ■ Bread, rolls, condiments, dressings? ■ Beverages (at the table, open bar, by consumption at the bar, rolling, juice bar) ■ Dessert/Viennese table? ■ After dinner drinks? ■ Wedding cake (included in price? Additional cake cutting fee?) ■ Ideas on how to decorate the table?
FU ZHICHAO
■
catering
FOR THE OCCASION
FIRST THINGS ■ Date of the wedding, approximate number of guests, wedding venue ■ Discuss options: sit down, buffet, food stations, or cocktail reception ■ Price per person: make sure caterer’s price range fits your budget ■ Start and end times for each phase of event ■ Does caterer share your vision of the event? FOOD AND PREPARATION Opportunity for food tasting (Cost for tasting? Can cost be deducted from eventual catering bill?) ■ Any food previously frozen or all fresh? ■ Wedding cake included? ■ Special menus such as vegetarian, vegan, special recipes or restrictions? ■
BEFORE RECEPTION Hors d’oeuvres (Hot, cold, stationary, or served? How many and what kind?) ■ Timing of cocktail hour to coincide with formal photos? ■ Beverages (Punch, cocktails, soft drinks?) ■ Children’s table? ■
38 AMELIA ISLAND WEDDINGS
WAIT STAFF Number of servers and bartenders Ratio of servers to guests (1 server to 16 at a sit-down meal, 1 to 25 or so at a buffet is one guideline) ■ Cost of servers ■ Dress code ■ Gratuities included? ■ ■
MISCELLANEOUS What rooms will be used? Is the caterer familiar with the kitchen facilities and the reception room? ■ What items, if any, will caterer provide (chairs, tables, flatware, dishes, glasses, linens)? ■ Discuss price of above, and request samples ■ Does the caterer have photos of previous events to show? ■ Tables, chairs, utensils, dishes, paper goods ■ Other party items (e.g religious items, place cards, table numbers, candles, matches, guest towels in restrooms?) ■ Can the caterer recommend other weddingservice professionals? (Is the caterer acquainted with wedding planner, florist, or other professionals to be used?) ■ Don’t forget to clarify details (e.g. cheese plate: what kind of cheeses included? portion size?) ■ References are always a good idea ■ Check for insurance coverage ■ ■
AFTER THE PARTY What happens to leftovers? Ask the caterer to prepare a “take-away basket” for the couple
■ ■
904-206-3115 LisaPresnellProductions.com
the perfect pair... Pick up your copies of Amelia Islander Magazine and Amelia Island Weddings at local merchants to keep up with everything Amelia. Visit www.ameliaislander.com to read both magazines online.
AMELIA ISLAND WEDDINGS 39
As wedding flowers trend towards seasonal and tropical, the color palette this season turns bold, with classic blues and brightly colored tropicals. By Julie Simmons Roses are red, violets are blue, wow, are this year’s wedding trends looking up for you! From vibrant colors to new statements in floral design and textures, this wedding season brings a host of new ideas to add some pizazz to your special day. Maybe today’s biggest wedding trend is really no trend at all. How can you make your wedding day a signature event for you and your beloved? Your flowers and wedding décor are the perfect place to lay the foundation for your plan. Looking for inspiration, many brides are thinking back to their childhood and incorporating flowers from their hometowns. Other brides are introducing dried flowers like lavender, baby’s breath, and daisies, which bring unique texture. Dried flowers can also add personality to the celebration, since they can come with stories of the first time the flowers were 40 AMELIA ISLAND WEDDINGS
COURTESY OF WEDIDEAS/ETSY
© ELVIRA SHAMILOVA
bright and tropical
in the bride’s life, perhaps from the engagement, a family tradition, or another special event. If you like bright colors, this wedding season is for you. The “green” we’ve seen in past seasons is fading, and bold, vibrant hues are taking center stage. Jump-starting this shift in tone is Pantone’s color of the year—classic blue. If you want to build it into your wedding day, it’s perfect for your “something blue!” Think about your shoes, bridesmaids’ gowns, groomsmen’s ties, linens, and paper. A natural progression of the color comeback is the move toward modern tropicals with lively palates. This shift is fantastic for our coastal community, with its beautiful natural backdrop. Central to this bohemian movement are sun palms, those fan-shaped palms that make a big statement. Fan-shaped palms are available in almost any color imaginable, including their natural grayish-green hue, which allows them to be utilized in a range of wedding styles and color palettes. Also in line with the modern tropical style are bougainvillas, which burst with red, pink, purple, yellow, or orange hues. In contrast, designers this season are also highlighting monochromatic palates, a tonal trend leveraging three of four shades of the same color in the design. You can incorporate this look for your bouquets, linens, and even bridesmaids’ gowns! For a more muted feel, think about mauve, blush, and dusty rose; for dominant, try it in reds, purples, or even ombre options with this year’s classic blue! For all types of design this year, designers and consumers are opting for sustainability. For your wedding day, that can mean choosing in-season flowers, which also come with a gentler price tag. Or
COURTESY OF BRIDALWISHDESIGN/ETSY
COURTESY OF EMILY WREN PHOTOGRAPHY
perhaps try using a higher-quality bloom in smaller quantities, or design your bouquets to transition to a vase and double as a centerpiece for the reception tables. And for the creative in the crowd, you can also DIY! Brides today are finding their own flowers and taking them straight from the field to the aisle. Sustainability brings us to minimalism, which transitions naturally to modern, and for this season, geometric and acrylic are in. A unique presentation of this trend is encased arrangements—think about an enclosure you’d see in a gallery. Leverage this look for some of the crowning moments of your event, like the cake display or within the altar design. Additionally, use acrylic! The metallics of seasons past are clearing the way for acrylic as a texture for almost any detail you can imagine, from tables and chairs to signs and vases with LED lights illuminating the stems. And lastly, if you don’t want a big display of florals—wear them! Blooming jewelry is here, including necklaces, bracelets, and even earrings. Whichever way you decide to carry it, display it, or wear it this season, brides, it’s all about you, so have fun planning how to share your love story at your special wedding celebration. AMELIA ISLAND WEDDINGS 41
ASAD PHOTO
honeymoon
ON AMELIA ISLAND
By Karen Miller “Happily ever after” begins with the perfect honeymoon getaway on Amelia Island. Embark on your life together as husband and wife by creating cherished memories on this exquisite and unspoiled barrier island. Your honeymoon is the most romantic part of your wedding event! After your vows are said, the cake is cut, and you’ve danced the night away, it’s time for romance and relaxation on one of Florida’s favorite vacation destinations. From a dreamy carriage ride through the Historic District to a romantic candlelit dinner to his and hers spa treatments or a game of golf, Amelia Island has a multitude of activities and events to keep a honeymooning couple busy, that is, if they want to be busy! Still one of Florida’s best kept secrets, honeymooning couples can bask serenely in Amelia Island’s intimate spaces, enjoying tranquil beaches or cozy bistros for quiet times together. Or let one of our local charter captains take you for a lovely sunset cruise or sail. And if you’re up for some lively adventure, try your hand at jet skiing, fishing, or surfing. 42 AMELIA ISLAND WEDDINGS
There’s always something happening on Amelia Island, from the Concours d’Elegance and the Amelia Island Chamber Music Festival to the swingin’ Amelia Island Jazz Festival, just to name a few, which will make your honeymoon a memorable experience. And this enchanting island paradise is abounding in comfortable accommodations, whether you’re looking for a sumptuous hotel, an historic bed-and-breakfast inn, or a friendly hotel by the beach. You’ll find Southern hospitality is a way of life in Fernandina Beach, with everyone eager to make your honeymoon the trip of a lifetime. Amelia Island is beckoning… come join us! In the center of Fernandina Beach, The Fairbanks House has been recognized as one of the most beautiful bed and breakfast inns in the country. Recently named the “Best Place to Elope” by WhereToElope.com, the inn boasts striking Italianate architecture, along with rooms that are charming and comfortable, many with Jacuzzis and private porches. Innkeeper and owner Theresa Hamilton provides wine and chocolatecovered strawberries upon your arrival, as well as spa robes, upscale amenities, and free WiFi in the rooms. “We cater to romance,” says Hamilton. “We are all about quiet, romantic getaways, and we can accommodate every need.” Several of the oversized rooms even have small kitchens and all rooms have coffee makers. A two-course breakfast, complimentary use of bikes, a pool and beach equipment, along with evening beverages and hors d’oeuvres, round out the carefree pampering that couples will remember for a lifetime. Located just steps from the Atlantic Ocean is the Amelia Hotel at the Beach. This locally owned and operated hotel is convenient to area attractions, dining and shopping. “Our hotel offers spacious guest rooms with a location designed to leave guests with great memories at affordable prices,” says Holly Germano, General Manager. “Guests love the comfortable rooms with abundant
Luxury honeymoon packages filled with romance, pampering, history & fun.
Fairbanks FHHouse ~ Offering Elopement Packages ~
Named the “Best Place to Elope” by WhereToElope.com. In the charming Historic District of Fernandina Beach on Amelia Island
904-277-0500 • fairbankshouse.com
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Congr@ul@ions to all the couples featured JENSEN BELL PHOTOGRAPHY
amenities, Hot & Healthy Breakfast, as well as our evening refreshments—and our Lobby Lounge is the perfect place to enjoy a night cap.” Elizabeth Pointe offers newleyweds oceanfront relaxation with refined Southern hospitality. Wrap-around porches, beautifully decorated rooms, seaside dining at The Pointe Restaurant, 24/7 room service and staff to exceed your expectations will all be a part of your stay at Elizabeth Pointe. Relax in a rocking chair with a glass of sweet tea and ocean views from the broad porch and you will see why this Inn received the 2017 Conde Nast Best Service Award and is featured as one of Southern Living Magazine’s Great Inns of the South. Suites located on the Elizabeth Pointe property just next to the main Inn offer more secluded options for honeymoon couples, with private sundecks and balcony options, all with the amenities the Inn offers. Add the honeymoon package to any stay to make your oceanfront romantic getaway on Amelia Island complete. Amelia Island is also a great jumping off place for other destinations. Wallace Pierson Travel, a local, full-service travel source, offers a network of contacts and experienced and well-traveled agents who can provide honeymoon packages with VIP status worldwide. Honeymooning couples are known to return again and again to Amelia Island, to recreate their special day. It’s an extraordinary place where new lives begin, and memories are made to last a lifetime.
in this issue of Amelia Island Weddings!
AMELIA ISLAND WEDDINGS 43
island directory CATERERS BAR ZIN BISTRO & WINE BAR 4924 FIRST COAST HIGHWAY AMELIA ISLAND, FL 32034 (904) 310-6620 WWW.BARZIN-BISTRO-WINEBAR.COM
A COMPREHENSIVE GUIDE TO EVERYTHING YOU NEED TO PLAN YOUR WEDDING ON AMELIA ISLAND
FAIRBANKS HOUSE 227 SO. SEVENTH STREET FERNANDINA BEACH, FL 32034 (904) 277-0500 WWW.FAIRBANKSHOUSE.COM
PHOTOGRAPHERS PAM BELL PHOTOGRAPHY AMELIA ISLAND, FLORIDA (904) 277-9681 WWW.PAMBELLPHOTOGRAPHY.COM
HONEYMOONS
FULL-SERVICE WEDDING PHOTOGRAPHY; PORTRAITS; ENGAGEMENT, FAMILY, AND CHILD PHOTOGRAPHY
RECEPTIONS; REHEARSAL DINNERS
PEPPER’S MEXICAN GRILL & CANTINA 530 CENTRE STREET FERNANDINA BEACH, FL 32034 (904) 277-2011 WWW.PEPPERSMEXICAN.COM.COM
OMNI AMELIA ISLAND PLANTATION RESORT 39 BEACH LAGOON ROAD AMELIA ISLAND, FL 32034 (904) 261-6161 (888) 444-OMNI WWW.OMNIHOTELS.COM
REHEARSAL DINNERS
WEDDINGS AND RECEPTIONS; REHEARSAL DINNERS;
PLANTATION PHOTOGRAPHY AMELIA ISLAND, FLORIDA ST. SIMONS ISLAND, GEORGIA (904) 277-5153 - AMELIA ISLAND (912) 996-4310 - ST. SIMONS ISLAND WWW.PHOTOSONTHEBEACH.COM
HONEYMOONS; LODGING; FUNCTION ROOMS
FULL-SERVICE WEDDING PHOTOGRAPHY; PORTRAITS
JEWELRY AMELIA’S FINE JEWELRY 317 CENTRE STREET FERNANDINA BEACH, FL 32034 (904) 277-0665 WWW.AMELIASFINEJEWELRY.COM
PHOTO BOOTHS ISLAND PHOTO BOOTH FERNANDINA BEACH, FL (904) 556-3048 DALLASBRASIER@GMAIL.COM
POGO’S KITCHEN 1408 LEWIS STREET FERNANDINA BEACH, FL 32034 (904) 432-8483 WWW.POGOSKITCHEN.COM WEDDING RECEPTIONS; REHEARSAL DINNERS; BRIDAL LUNCHES; SPECIAL EVENTS
WEDDINGS; SPECIAL EVENTS
JEWELRY; RINGS; GIFTS
CHAPELS/CHURCHES AMELIA PLANTATION CHAPEL 36 BOWMAN ROAD AMELIA ISLAND, FL 32034 (904) 277-4414 WWW.AMELIACHAPEL.COM AN INTERDENOMINATIONAL COMMUNITY CHURCH
DENTAL CARE AMELIA DENTAL GROUP 1947 CITRONA DRIVE FERNANDINA BEACH, FL 32034 (904) 261-7181 WWW.AMELIADENTAL.COM TOOTH WHITENING; SMILE MAKEOVERS; PORCELAIN VENEERS; BONDING FOR CHIPPED AND STAINED TEETH
FINANCIAL SERVICES IRIS FINANCIAL SERVICES 961687 GATEWAY BOULEVARD, STE 201F FERNANDINA BEACH, FL 32034 FINANCIAL SERVICES
HAIR SALON AND MAKEUP THE BEAUTY BAR 2245 SADLER ROAD AMELIA ISLAND, FL 32034 (904) 624-7724 WWW.THEBEAUTYBAR.COM BRIDAL HAIR SALON AND MAKEUP STUDIO
HONEYMOONS AMELIA HOTEL AT THE BEACH 1997 SOUTH FLETCHER AVENUE FERNANDINA BEACH, FL 32034 (904) 206-5600 (800) 263-5428 WWW.AMELIAHOTEL.US WEDDINGS AND RECEPTIONS; HONEYMOONS; LODGING
ELIZABETH POINTE LODGE 98 S. FLETCHER AVENUE AMELIA ISLAND, FL 32034 (904) 277-4851 WWW.ELIZABETHPOINTELODGE.COM HONEYMOONS; LODGING
44 AMELIA ISLAND WEDDINGS
LINDY’S JEWELRY 110 CENTRE STREET FERNANDINA BEACH, FL 32034 (904) 277-4880 JEWELRY; RINGS; GIFTS
SCOTT & SONS FINE JEWELRY 9900 AMELIA ISLAND PARKWAY, STE 200 AMELIA ISLAND, FL 32034 (904) 491-1550 WWW.SCOTTANDSONS.COM JEWELRY; RINGS; GIFTS
LODGING – WEDDING PARTIES AMELIA HOTEL AT THE BEACH 1997 SOUTH FLETCHER AVENUE FERNANDINA BEACH, FL 32034 (904) 206-5600 (800) 263-5428 WWW.AMELIAHOTEL.US WEDDINGS AND RECEPTIONS; HONEYMOONS; LODGING
AMELIA SURF & RACQUET CLUB 4800 AMELIA ISLAND PARKWAY AMELIA ISLAND, FL 32034 (904) 261-0511 (800) 323-2001 WWW.SURFANDRACQUET.COM LODGING; HONEYMOONS
OMNI AMELIA ISLAND PLANTATION RESORT 39 BEACH LAGOON ROAD AMELIA ISLAND, FL 32034 (904) 261-6161 (888) 444-OMNI WWW.OMNIHOTELS.COM WEDDINGS AND RECEPTIONS; REHEARSAL DINNERS; HONEYMOONS; LODGING; FUNCTION ROOMS
SEASIDE AMELIA INN 2900 ATLANTIC AVENUE AMELIA ISLAND, FL 32034 (904) 206-5300 WWW.SEASIDEAMELIAINN.COM WEDDINGS AND RECEPTIONS; REHEARSAL DINNERS; HONEYMOONS; LODGING; FUNCTION ROOMS
RECREATION AMELIA RIVER CRUISES FERNANDINA BEACH MARINA AMELIA ISLAND, FL 32034 (904) 261-9972 WWW.AMELIARIVERCRUISES.COM WEDDINGS AND RECEPTIONS; REHEARSAL DINNERS; AFTER PARTIES
KAYAK AMELIA 13013 HECKSCHER DRIVE JACKSONVILLE, FL 32226 (904) 30-KAYAK WWW.KAYAKAMELIA.COM KAYAK AND BIKE TOURS; CANOE AND KAYAK RENTALS
VENUES AMELIA HOTEL AT THE BEACH 1997 SOUTH FLETCHER AVENUE FERNANDINA BEACH, FL 32034 (904) 206-5600 (800) 263-5428 WWW.AMELIAHOTEL.COM WEDDINGS AND RECEPTIONS; HONEYMOONS; LODGING
BAR ZIN BISTRO & WINE BAR 4924 FIRST COAST HIGHWAY AMELIA ISLAND, FL 32034 (904) 310-6620 WWW.BARZIN-BISTRO-WINEBAR.COM RECEPTIONS; REHEARSAL DINNERS
THE BARN AT COTTONWOOD RANCH 452039 OLD DIXIE HIGHWAY CALLAHAN, FL 32011 WWW.BARNATCOTTONWOODRANCH.COM WEDDINGS AND RECEPTIONS; ANNIVERSARY PARTIES; SPECIAL EVENTS
CAFÉ KARIBO 27 NORTH 3RD STREET FERNANDINA BEACH, FL 32034 (904) 277-5269 CAFEKARIBO.COM WEDDINGS AND RECEPTIONS; REHEARSAL DINNERS; BRIDAL LUNCHES; SPECIAL EVENTS
island directory THE CRAB TRAP 31 NORTH SECOND STREET FERNANDINA BEACH, FL 32034 (904) 261-4749
THE RIBAULT CLUB FORT GEORGE ISLAND, FLORIDA (904) 251-1050 WWW.THERIBAULTCLUB.COM
WEDDINGS AND RECEPTIONS; REHEARSAL DINNERS;
WEDDINGS AND RECEPTIONS; REHEARSAL DINNERS;
PRIVATE PARTIES
FUNCTION ROOMS
FLORIDA HOUSE INN 22 SOUTH THURD STREET FERNANDINA BEACH, FL 32034 (904) 491-3322 WWW.FLORIDAHOUSEINN.COM
SALT LIFE FOOD SHACK 17 N. FLETCHER AVENUE FERNANDINA BEACH, FL 32034 (904) 432-7385 WWW.SALTLIFEFOODSHACK.COM
WEDDINGS AND RECEPTIONS; REHEARSAL DINNERS;
WEDDING RECEPTIONS; REHEARSAL DINNERS;
HONEYMOONS; LODGING
BRIDAL LUNCHES; SPECIAL EVENTS
THE GOLF CLUB OF AMELIA ISLAND 4700 AMELIA ISLAND PARKWAY AMELIA ISLAND, FL 32034 (904) 277-8015 GOLFCLUBOFAMELIA.COM
SEASIDE AMELIA INN 2900 ATLANTIC AVENUE AMELIA ISLAND, FL 32034 (904) 206-5300 WWW.SEASIDEAMELIAINN.COM
WEDDINGS AND RECEPTIONS; REHEARSAL DINNERS;
WEDDINGS AND RECEPTIONS; REHEARSAL DINNERS;
BRIDAL LUNCHES; SPECIAL EVENTS
HONEYMOONS; LODGING; FUNCTION ROOMS
JOE’S 2ND STREET BISTRO 14 SOUTH SECOND STREET AMELIA ISLAND, FL 32034 (904) 321-2558 WWW.JOESBISTRO.COM
SUGAR POINTE ESTATE 88000 SUGAR POINTE LANE YULEE, FL 32034 (904) 310-3687 WWW.SUGARPOINTE.COM
WEDDINGS AND RECEPTIONS; REHEARSAL DINNERS;
WEDDINGS AND RECEPTIONS; REHEARSAL DINNERS;
PRIVATE DINING ROOMS
BRIDAL LUNCHES; SPECIAL EVENTS
THE GOLF CLUB OF NORTH HAMPTON 4700 AMELIA ISLAND PARKWAY AMELIA ISLAND, FL 32034 (904) 277-8015 WWW.GOLFCLUBOFAMELIA.COM
WEDDING CONSULTANTS LISA PRESNELL PRODUCTIONS (904) 206-3155 WWW.LISAPRESNELLPRODUCTIONS.COM
WEDDINGS AND RECEPTIONS; REHEARSAL DINNERS;
ALL-INCLUSIVE TRAVEL COORDINATION
A COMPREHENSIVE GUIDE TO EVERYTHING YOU NEED TO PLAN YOUR WEDDING ON AMELIA ISLAND
WEDDING AND EVENT PLANNING; CRUISE AND
BRIDAL LUNCHES; SPECIAL EVENTS
OMNI AMELIA ISLAND PLANTATION RESORT 39 BEACH LAGOON ROAD AMELIA ISLAND, FL 32034 (904) 261-6161 (888) 444-OMNI WWW.OMNIHOTELS.COM WEDDINGS AND RECEPTIONS; REHEARSAL DINNERS; HONEYMOONS; LODGING; FUNCTION ROOMS
OYSTER BAY YACHT CLUB 96732 BAY VIEW DRIVE FERNANDINA BEACH, FL 32034 (904) 261-4773 WWW.OYSTERBAYYACHTCLUB.COM WEDDINGS AND RECEPTIONS; REHEARSAL DINNERS; FUNCTION ROOMS
PEPPER’S MEXICAN GRILL & CANTINA 530 CENTRE STREET FERNANDINA BEACH, FL 32034 (904) 277-2011 WWW.PEPPERSMEXICAN.COM.COM REHEARSAL DINNERS
POGO’S KITCHEN 1408 LEWIS STREET FERNANDINA BEACH, FL 32034 (904) 432-8483 WWW.POGOSKITCHEN.COM WEDDING RECEPTIONS; REHEARSAL DINNERS; BRIDAL LUNCHES; SPECIAL EVENTS
AMELIA ISLAND WEDDINGS 45
the Life Salt Life Food Shack is the perfect location and catering option for receptions, showers, anniversaries and more. We have stunning beach views and a beautiful rooftop bar and lounge for your most memorable occasion. Contact us today to plan your special Salty event that can accommodate between 20-300 guests.
17 N. Fletcher Ave | Fernandina Beach, FL 32034 | 904-432-7385
SaltLifeFoodShack.com