Advice Column / Ask Anna

Dear Anna,

I've always dreamed about the perfect beach wedding, but what happens if it rains on my wedding day?

- Weather Worried in Indiana

Dear Weather Worried,

I'm a big believer in if you bring an umbrella with you it won't rain. What I mean by that is if you have a weather backup plan, you will have more time to dedicate to the joy of planning your wedding and less time stressing out to the Weather Channel. Your coordinator can suggest a backup site, or your reception venue might have a space for your ceremony in the case of inclement weather. If it is a small wedding and a passing storm, wait fifteen minutes, and the rain will likely pass. You can also choose to embrace the raindrops while protected by a clear umbrella that also makes for a great photo op!

XO Love, Anna

Love & Style Photography

Dear Anna,

I'm overwhelmed with the choices and prices for flowers. What is the best advice you have for me as a destination bride coming to Anna Maria Island?

- Indecisive in Texas

Dear Indecisive,

For this one, we reached out to Mark from Flowers by Edie to gain some expert advice. He suggests, "Look at magazines and Pinterest for photos you like, but don't get discouraged with the price of recreating the exact floral combination. Many times a very similar look and feel is achieved with more budget-friendly florals."

He also suggested picking a style and color and being more flexible with the actual blooms. Market conditions and seasonal plantings determine the stock and pricing of individual flowers. If you give your florist flexibility, you may even find their buyer could source a typically expensive stem at significant savings, and they will pass that onto you.

Thanks Mark!

XO Love, Anna

Sandhill Photography

Dear Anna,

My fiancée thinks the cake smash is a fun surprise, but I think it is definitely a no. What should I do?

- Frosting-Free Face in Ohio

Dear Frosting-Free,

A cake smash can be cute for a one-year-old birthday party, but cake on your dress, in your hair, and on your face could make your wedding day memorable for the wrong reasons. Be firm for the wedding day, but can you have a cake smash at home with a real cake for the two of you? For more shenanigans, add in an adult beverage and clean up with a bubble bath. Now that sounds like a sweet surprise!

XO Love, Anna

Sandhill Photography

Dear Anna,

I need to relax before the big day! Do you have any suggestions for my partner and me?

- Stressed Out in Seattle

Dear Stressed Out,

We do! Picture yourself and your fiance in a tiki hut directly on the beach, enjoying a couple’s massage. Book with a local favorite, Sea-renity Spa, which offers the Island’s only open-air tiki hut right on the beach.

Next, enlist the services of the Island’s own “Director of Contagious Enthusiasm,” Susanne Arbanas, and her company AMI Concierge. Susanne knows all the hidden gems on the Island and can craft your perfect day to capture the true spirit of island time.

XO Love, Anna

Photo courtesy of Sea-Renity Spa