Advice Column / Ask Anna

Dear Anna,

I long for a destination wedding, but several family members cannot make the trip. Grandparents are hesitant to fly, and my sister has a newborn and a toddler, making traveling more than she can handle right now. How do I include them if they can’t be here in person?

-Longing in Lexington

Dear Longing,

We reached out to Casey Hoffman Promotes for advice. Owner Casey recommends live-streaming the ceremony by hiring a professional sound engineer for your big day. Live-streaming gives the virtual guests what they really want, an opportunity to interact directly with the happy couple. This format allows the couple to read comments from guests who were not there in person on the wedding day but participating in real-time. After the ceremony, the recorded live-stream video remains accessible to other guests and the newlyweds for viewing.

XO Love, Anna

Photo by Love and Style Photography

Dear Anna,

Can we get married on Anna Maria Island at the house where we are staying and have our reception there? Do we need a permit for the beach ceremony? I’ve asked on social media, but everyone gives me a different answer.

-Confused in Cleveland

Dear Confused,

There are strict rules on parking, noise, and events to help our local community live in harmony with our visitors. If you are having a small ceremony, it is possible with the home owner’s permission. Most of the time, it is not an option. One of the island’s charms is that rental homes are on residential streets instead of imposing high-rises in commercial districts.

There are three cities on Anna Maria’s seven-mile island. Each of them has different rules for permitting beach ceremonies. We are cautious with the regulations because having your wedding shut down would be our worst nightmare (and yours too!) This is where a local wedding planner comes in. They have relationships with local businesses, keep up with the permitting process, and can help with the ceremony, reception site, and lodging so you can have the wedding of your dreams.

XO Love, Anna

Photo by Love and Style Photography

Dear Anna,

I want a water view for my wedding, but I’d rather wear my fabulous heels than walk in the sand. What should I do?

- Stiletto Lover in St. Louis

Dear Stiletto Lover,

Manatee County has many options for an event held on the water but without sand. A favorite is the Powel Crosley Estate, a treasured part of Florida history. The historic estate, built in 1929, sits directly on the sparkling water of Sarasota Bay and features a circular tower, gorgeous interiors, and a large Bayside lawn.

XO Love, Anna

Dear Anna,

What is a fun way to add a personalized touch to our wedding? I want something unique and tropical. Extra bonus if it is sustainable too!

- All Out of Ideas in Albany

Dear Out of Ideas,

We have just the solution that checks all your boxes. Our wedding guests go coco-nuts for branded drinks from AMI Coconuts. Fresh coconuts are custom imprinted with your wedding logo, which can include a personalized design or simply your names and wedding date. More fun than a traditional signature drink, the coconuts are opened fresh for each guest, adding a fun interactive element. They can either be served as a refreshment for the ceremony or turned into a wedding cocktail.

AMI Coconuts additionally serves up Coco Colada (fresh pineapple juice), a Coco Melon (freshly squeezed watermelon), and a Cocohito (lime and mint leaves), all mixed with coconut water and local cane simple syrup and served right in the coconut. Add some local AMI Rum to the mix for an island time groove. Fresh, fun, photoworthy, and sustainable, all in a nutshell!

XO Love, Anna