alys beach wedding
your guide to crafting your dream
where architectural beauty and ocean breeze create the perfect canvas for a wedding that’s equal parts modern and timeless
If you're dreaming of an Alys Beach wedding that blends modern sophistication with effortless coastal luxury, this iconic 30A destination is the perfect canvas. Known for its striking white architecture, palm-lined streets, and exclusive seaside charm, Alys Beach offers a wedding experience that’s both refined and unforgettable. Whether you're planning an intimate courtyard ceremony or a chic garden celebration, every detail feels elevated against the backdrop of the Gulf. Alys Beach weddings are where high design meets coastal romance—ideal for couples seeking a timeless, design-forward destination wedding on Florida’s Emerald Coast.
This guide covers:
As a destination wedding photographer, I’ve had the joy of capturing love stories in some of the most beautiful places—and Alys Beach is truly one of the most enchanting. With its whitewashed architecture, pristine shoreline, and timeless elegance, it offers an unforgettable backdrop for couples who value design, intimacy, and meaningful celebration. This guide is here to help you plan your dream Alys Beach wedding, while making sure every sun-soaked, joy-filled moment is documented with care.
1. What Makes Alys Beach Special
2. When to Get Married in Alys Beach
3. Luxurious Experiences to Elevate Your Alys Beach Wedding
4. Where to Get Married in Alys Beach
5. Traveling to Alys Beach
6. Example Timeline for a Long Weekend Wedding
7. Finding Your Alys Beach Wedding Vendors
8. Finding Your Alys Wedding Photographer
9. 30A Galleries
Hi, I'm Jayla!
I’m a luxury destination wedding photographer specializing in intimate, high-end celebrations—crafted with intention, captured with heart. While I grew up in the mountains of Colorado, I’ve fallen deeply in love with the coastal elegance of Alys Beach, Florida. With its iconic white architecture, serene Gulf views, and refined charm, Alys Beach offers a wedding experience unlike anywhere else.
From soft, golden light reflecting off stucco walls to romantic courtyard ceremonies framed by palms, Alys Beach weddings are the perfect blend of modern design and timeless coastal beauty. Whether you’re planning a chic garden celebration or an intimate seaside gathering, I’m here to document your day with an editorial eye and a deep appreciation for the emotion and beauty that make it uniquely yours.
As your photographer, I bring a calm presence, a love for intentional details, and a passion for storytelling. My goal is to create imagery that feels as luxurious and effortless as your Alys Beach wedding—capturing every elegant moment and the emotion woven between them.
Where luxury meets adventure
about me
"You have really outdone yourself - these pictures are incredible. There are so many shots that captured this feeling of intimacy and, wow, they really took my breath away. Devin and I literally gasped, “wooow,” out loud a few times. Anyways, you’re a genius - just had to tell you."
- Katie & Devin
Devin and I literally gasped...
Distinctive Architecture & Design
Alys Beach is known for its stunning whitewashed Bermudan-inspired architecture, creating a cohesive, clean, and timeless aesthetic that feels like a modern Mediterranean paradise right on the Gulf Coast.
01.
what makes
Alys Beach Special
Exclusive, Private Community
Unlike many beach towns, Alys Beach is a gated, planned community focused on privacy and tranquility, giving couples an intimate and luxurious setting for their wedding celebration away from crowds.
02.
Breathtaking Natural Beauty
With pristine sugar-white sand beaches, crystal-clear turquoise waters, and scenic coastal dunes, Alys Beach offers an unparalleled natural backdrop that combines relaxation with striking photo opportunities.
03.
when to get married in Alys Beach
Choosing the perfect season for your Alys Beach wedding is key to creating the atmosphere and experience you envision. Each season offers something unique—from the warm, breezy days of spring to the lively energy of summer and the peaceful charm of fall and winter. Understanding the weather, crowd levels, and natural beauty throughout the year will help you plan a celebration that feels just right for you and your guests. Here’s a closer look at what to expect during each season in Alys Beach.
Spring is one of the most popular and picturesque times to have an Alys Beach wedding. The weather is warm but comfortable, with daytime temperatures typically ranging from the mid-60s to mid-80s °F. Humidity is moderate, and the gentle ocean breezes help keep things fresh. Spring also brings vibrant coastal blooms and soft natural light—ideal for outdoor ceremonies and stunning photos. Plus, the tourist crowds haven’t yet peaked, so you and your guests can enjoy a more private and relaxed atmosphere.
Spring
Summer in Alys Beach means embracing the Gulf Coast’s hottest and most humid months. Temperatures often climb into the high 80s and 90s °F, and afternoon thunderstorms are common, so it’s important to plan for shade, hydration, and rain contingencies. Summer is also the busiest time, with lots of vacationers and a lively energy throughout the town. If you love the buzz of the season and don’t mind the heat, a summer wedding can be vibrant and fun—but it’s essential to work with vendors who know how to handle the weather and timing.
Summer
Fall and winter bring cooler, more temperate weather to Alys Beach, with daytime highs usually in the 60s to 70s °F range. These months offer a quieter, off-season experience with fewer tourists, making it a great choice for couples who want a more intimate celebration. Evenings can be chilly, so layering is key for sunset ceremonies or beachside receptions. Rainfall is a bit more frequent, but the crisp air and peaceful surroundings create a beautiful, calm backdrop for your wedding day.
Fall & Winter
Luxurious Experiences to Elevate Your Alys Beach Wedding
Alys Beach is more than just a stunning wedding destination—it’s a playground for luxury, relaxation, and curated coastal adventures that you and your guests will cherish. Whether you’re planning an extended wedding weekend or simply want to savor the best this exclusive community has to offer, Alys Beach provides an elegant backdrop for unforgettable experiences. As a destination wedding photographer, I’m inspired by the town’s blend of serene beauty and refined style, perfect for creating memories that last a lifetime.
Private Beach Experiences: Enjoy exclusive access to pristine, sugar-white beaches perfect for sunrise yoga sessions, bespoke beachside picnics, or a private bonfire gathering with your closest family and friends. Many luxury rentals offer seamless beach access for your convenience. Learn more about the Alys Beach private beach experience here.
Golf at Nearby World-Class Courses: Tee off at one of the nearby premier golf courses like Camp Creek Golf Club, designed by Tom Fazio, offering impeccably maintained greens with stunning coastal views—a perfect activity for wedding parties and guests seeking elegance and leisure.
Spa and Wellness Retreats: Unwind with luxurious spa treatments and wellness experiences at the ZUMA Wellness Center and Racquets Facility, offering massage therapy, fitness classes, and rejuvenating amenities to prepare you for your big day or relax afterward.
Gourmet Dining & Private Chef Experiences: Alys Beach and the surrounding 30A area are known for exceptional dining. Host a private chef dinner in your luxury rental or dine at acclaimed local restaurants. Services like Eclat 30a provide tailored gourmet meals perfect for rehearsal dinners or post-wedding brunches.
Scenic Bike Rides & Coastal Walks: Take advantage of miles of paved trails and scenic paths that wind through Alys Beach and neighboring towns. Rent high-end bikes with complimentary delivery and pick-up through the Alys Beach Bike Shop for a leisurely ride, stopping at charming boutiques and cafés along the way.
Chartered Yacht or Sailing Trips: For the ultimate luxury experience, book a private charter with 30a Yacht Charters for a sailing or yacht excursion along the Gulf Coast—ideal for an elegant sunset cruise or a day of celebration on the water with your wedding party.
where to get married in Alys Beach, Florida
- Gulf Green – A picture-perfect oceanside lawn with unobstructed views of the Gulf, ideal for wedding ceremonies, sunset cocktail hours, or even a romantic first look.
- Central Park – A lush grassy space framed by white stucco buildings, Mediterranean-inspired details, and glowing string lights—perfect for outdoor receptions or al fresco dinners under the stars.
- Caliza Pool – A show-stopping venue for ultra-luxurious events, the Caliza Pool area combines bold architecture, ambient lighting, and water reflections for a dramatic and sophisticated evening celebration.
- Private Residences – Many couples choose to rent one of Alys Beach’s architectural gems for hosting events, welcome cocktails, or getting-ready moments in a serene, design-forward environment. Some homes even feature rooftops, courtyards, or balconies perfect for micro-events.
How to Get to Alys Beach
The closest airport to Alys Beach is Northwest Florida Beaches International Airport (ECP), located just 30 minutes away with direct flights from major cities like Atlanta, Dallas, Nashville, Chicago, and Charlotte. Destin–Fort Walton Beach Airport (VPS) is another convenient option about 40–45 minutes from Alys Beach, with service from Delta, American, Southwest, and others. For private charters, Destin Executive Airport (DTS) offers a seamless luxury arrival experience just a short drive from 30A.
Ground Transportation
Once you land, you can reach Alys Beach by private car service, luxury shuttle, or rental car—all of which are readily available at both ECP and VPS. If you're planning to explore the 30A area or want flexibility during your stay, renting a car is a great option. However, Alys Beach is highly walkable and bike-friendly, so many couples opt to arrive by private transfer and enjoy the area car-free. Be sure to arrange transportation in advance, especially during peak wedding seasons.
Where to Stay in Alys Beach
Alys Beach is known for its stunning, whitewashed architecture and upscale private homes—many of which are available for short-term rental exclusively to guests staying within the community. These luxury residences offer a cohesive design aesthetic, high-end amenities, and walkable access to the beach, shops, and event spaces. Booking a home directly through Alys Beach Vacation Rentals ensures access to private community amenities, including the beach club, ZUMA Wellness Center, and exclusive pools. For overflow guests or larger groups, nearby towns like Rosemary Beach and Seaside also offer boutique hotels and vacation rentals with easy access to Alys Beach via bike or car.
How to Get to Alys Beach: Travel Logistics & Airport Options
Planning travel for your Alys Beach wedding ensures your guests arrive relaxed, refreshed, and ready to celebrate. Nestled along Florida’s scenic 30A, Alys Beach feels like a private coastal escape—yet it's surprisingly accessible. Whether guests are flying in or road-tripping along the Gulf Coast, travel is straightforward with nearby regional airports, car rentals, and scenic drives. Its walkable luxury and serene atmosphere make it an ideal setting for a destination wedding, blending ease of access with an elevated experience.
How to Plan a Multi-Day Destination Wedding in alys beach
Planning a multi-day destination wedding in Alys Beach transforms your celebration into an immersive, unforgettable experience. Instead of a single-day event, a thoughtfully curated weekend allows you to slow down, savor time with your favorite people, and fully embrace the beauty of this iconic coastal destination. Nestled along Florida’s 30A, Alys Beach offers whitewashed architecture, serene Gulf views, and elevated amenities that set the stage for a wedding weekend that feels both luxurious and effortlessly relaxed. From sunset welcome parties and intimate gatherings to farewell yoga and beachfront brunches, every moment becomes a meaningful extension of your love story. A multi-day celebration at Alys Beach isn’t just a wedding—it’s a refined experience your guests will remember forever.
Day 1: Arrival & Welcome Party
Morning
• Guests arrive and check into their Alys Beach rentals
• Welcome gift delivery with custom itineraries + local treats
• Leisure time to explore the beach or stroll through town
Afternoon
• Optional group bike ride along 30A or beach walk
• Sip + Shop: Boutique browsing and juice from Raw & Juicy
• Lounge by the pool or unwind at ZUMA wellness center
Evening
• Sunset Welcome Party at Gulf Green or a private courtyard
• Signature cocktails, live music, and coastal-inspired bites
• Toasts + mingling under the stars with candlelit ambiance
Day 2: Adventure + Rehearsal Dinner
Morning
• Sunrise yoga or beach meditation session
• Coffee + pastry bar from Fonville Press
• Free time to relax or explore Seaside or Rosemary Beach nearby
Afternoon
• Optional excursions: paddleboarding, spa, or private boat cruise
• Light lunch at NEAT Bottle Shop or George’s at Alys Beach
• Down time before the evening festivities
Evening
• Rehearsal at your ceremony location
• Elegant Rehearsal Dinner at Caliza Pool or a private residence
• Nightcap cocktails and dessert lounge with family + wedding party
Day 3: Wedding Day
Morning
• Bridal beauty prep and detail photography at your private home
• Groomsmen brunch + relaxed portraits around town
• Final venue walkthrough and vendor touch-ups
Afternoon
• First look + couple portraits on the beach or cobblestone streets
• Guest arrivals and pre-ceremony refreshments
• Wedding ceremony at Gulf Green or Central Park
Evening
• Cocktail hour with champagne + live acoustic music
• Al fresco reception dinner with glowing string lights + luxe tablescape
• Dancing, dessert, and a dramatic sparkler or cold spark exit
Day 4: Farewell Brunch & Departure
Morning
• Beachside Farewell Yoga or Sound Bath session
• Casual farewell brunch with coffee, waffles, and mimosas
• Guest send-off with custom thank-you notes
Afternoon
• Optional beach day or pool lounging for extended stay guests
• Final portraits or newlywed content shoot
• Couples massage or quiet time to unwind
Evening
• Private chef dinner or cozy evening in your rental
• Champagne toast on the rooftop or by the fire pit
• Begin your honeymoon or jet off to your next destination
Example Timeline for a Long Weekend Wedding
finding your wedding vendors
When planning a wedding in Alys Beach, choosing the right vendors is essential to bringing your vision to life with beauty, ease, and intention. This exclusive coastal town is known for its elevated design, refined atmosphere, and unparalleled charm—so it’s only fitting that your vendor team reflects that same level of excellence. From luxury planners and talented florists to top-tier hair and makeup artists, here are some of the best wedding professionals who know Alys Beach inside and out and will help you create a celebration as stunning and seamless as the setting itself.
alys beach wedding Planners
Because of its exclusivity, Alys Beach weddings require thoughtful planning and coordination. The town’s events team will be your first point of contact for securing venue access and dates. You’ll also need to work with vendors familiar with the area or those approved by Alys Beach.
Many couples choose to hire a local wedding planner who specializes in 30A weddings to help navigate logistics, permits, and vendor coordination. A few favorites include:
Alys Beach
hair & makeup artist
Your wedding day beauty should reflect your natural elegance while enhancing your unique style. Whether you’re dreaming of soft, sun-kissed waves, a glowing bridal complexion, or a chic, polished look fit for a coastal celebration, these top Alys Beach hair and makeup artists specialize in luxury bridal beauty. With expertise in humidity-resistant products and beach-friendly techniques, they ensure you look and feel radiant from your first look to your sunset sendoff. Here are my top recommendations for talented HMUAs serving Alys Beach and the surrounding 30A area.
alys beach
wedding florist
The right florist can transform your Alys Beach wedding into a breathtaking, floral-filled experience that feels both intentional and effortlessly elegant. Whether you're envisioning sculptural arrangements with coastal textures, soft romantic blooms that mirror the whitewashed architecture, or a modern, minimalist floral aesthetic, these top 30A florists specialize in luxurious, one-of-a-kind designs tailored to your vision. Here are my top recommendations for floral designers who will elevate your Alys Beach celebration with artistry and intention.
finding your
wedding photographer
As a luxury wedding photographer, I provide an elevated experience that artfully documents your unique love story while allowing you to be fully present on your wedding day. Specializing in intimate destination weddings and grand luxury affairs, I ensure a seamless, stress-free journey from the moment you inquire. Whether you’re planning an Alys Beach wedding or celebrating in another breathtaking location, my goal is to serve you with intentional care, capturing every beautiful detail while you focus on cherishing the moments that matter most.
With a blend of candid storytelling and artistic elegance, I create timeless images that celebrate your love and reflect the natural beauty and refined style of your wedding day. Alys Beach’s iconic whitewashed architecture and pristine coastal landscapes provide the perfect backdrop for heartfelt, romantic photography that tells your story with authenticity and depth. As your luxury wedding photographer, I make the process effortless, allowing you to relax and fully embrace the magic of your celebration. Average wedding photography investments begin at $9,300
Starting at $7,600
Weddings
Learn more!
we're a good fit if...
connection
artistry
present
A genuine connection with your wedding photographer is essential to feeling relaxed and fully present on your special day. If you value trust, comfort, and a photographer who truly sees and celebrates your unique love story, we’ll be the perfect fit to work together.
If you’re looking for a wedding photographer who values artistry and storytelling, we might be the perfect fit. I approach each wedding with a creative eye, blending candid moments with thoughtfully composed portraits to craft images that feel both authentic and timeless. Your wedding day is a work of art, and my goal is to document it in a way that reflects your unique love story with beauty and intention.
If you believe your wedding day is about being fully present and celebrating your love—not just about the photos—we might be the perfect fit. I prioritize capturing the moments as they naturally unfold, so you can focus on what truly matters: the joy, connection, and meaning of your day.
02.
01.
03.
I think we'd be a great fit, let's talk!
"We had the BEST time working with Jayla! From the start, she was super easy to communicate with and made the whole process incredibly easy. She had great suggestions for locations and was quick to respond for any questions. The turnaround time was so fast, and we were obsessed with how the photos turned out! This was an elopement for us, so the day was already incredibly special—and Jayla only added to that magic. She made us feel so comfortable and relaxed during the shoot, like we were just hanging out with a friend, not a photographer. She truly captured the essence of the day, and we couldn’t be more grateful. We 100% recommend Jayla to anyone looking for an amazing photographer who’s fun, professional, and knows how to make your day even more unforgettable."
- Callie & Robby
the day was already incredibly special—and Jayla only added to that magic
The Alys beach Experience
As a wedding photographer, my role goes far beyond simply taking beautiful images—it's about building a genuine connection that allows you to feel seen, heard, and truly celebrated. That connection begins the moment you inquire. Whether you're planning a luxurious seaside ceremony at Gulf Green or an intimate celebration tucked away in one of Alys Beach’s stunning courtyards, we’ll start with a call to get to know each other, dive into your vision, and dream together about how to bring it to life. My goal is to make you feel completely comfortable and cared for, creating a photography experience that’s as intentional and elevated as your Alys Beach wedding day.
01 | Connection
a step-by-step guide to what it really looks like to work with me
As a wedding photographer, my role goes far beyond capturing beautiful images—it's about creating a meaningful connection that makes you feel truly seen, heard, and celebrated. That connection begins the moment you inquire. Whether you're envisioning a chic oceanside ceremony at Gulf Green or an intimate gathering in one of Alys Beach’s serene courtyards, we’ll begin with a call to get to know one another, talk through your vision, and start shaping a day that feels entirely your own. My goal is to offer more than just photography—I provide a seamless, elevated experience that allows you to feel completely at ease and fully present as your Alys Beach wedding unfolds.
02 | the Engagement Session
Two months before your Alys Beach wedding, I’ll send you a detailed photography questionnaire designed to capture the essence of your vision. This thoughtfully curated guide covers everything from your timeline and key moments to the subtle details that make your day uniquely yours. You’ll have ample time to complete it as the excitement builds, allowing me to prepare with intention and clarity. With Alys Beach’s pristine architecture and coastal charm as our backdrop, this ensures your wedding photos reflect not only the beauty of your day—but the heart of your story.
03 | Wedding Questionnaire
2–4 weeks before your Alys Beach wedding, we’ll hop on a final call to review your completed questionnaire and walk through all the key details. From timeline logistics to meaningful moments and special requests, this consultation ensures nothing is overlooked. Whether you're exchanging vows at Gulf Green or celebrating in one of Alys Beach’s serene courtyards, my goal is for you to leave our call feeling completely confident and at ease—knowing every moment will be documented with care, creativity, and intention.
04 | Pre-Event Consult
The day you’ve been dreaming of is finally here—it's time to celebrate your love in the beauty of Alys Beach! As your wedding photographer, I’ll be by your side every step of the way, capturing each meaningful moment with care and intention. From your serene first look along the whitewashed walkways to your sunset ceremony at Gulf Green and every joyful dance that follows, I’ll be there to document your story with artistry and heart. Let’s soak in every moment and create memories you’ll cherish forever.
05 | It’s Time to Celebrate
Whether you're extending your stay in Alys Beach to savor more time with loved ones or heading off on your honeymoon, this is your moment to relax and soak in the joy of it all. While you’re making more unforgettable memories along the coast, you can look forward to receiving a sneak peek of your Alys Beach wedding photos within 24 hours of your celebration. These first images will beautifully reflect the magic of your day—set against the iconic white architecture, palm-lined paths, and serene shoreline of Alys Beach.
06 | Enjoy the Destination
learn more about the experience
Dreamy Gulf Green wedding
Step into the serene elegance of Alys Beach with Blakeley & Connor’s elegant wedding celebration, where coastal refinement met heartfelt romance under the soft glow of a Gulf sunset. Set against the iconic whitewashed architecture and pristine shoreline, their ceremony on Gulf Green unfolded with intentional simplicity, while their reception in Central Park carried an atmosphere of timeless sophistication. From the curated florals that mirrored the pastel Floridian palette to every intimate moment shared beneath the open sky, this celebration was thoughtfully designed to reflect modern luxury and sincere emotion. It’s a story of style, love, and place—captured beautifully within one of Florida’s most artfully composed coastal towns.
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mob-wife romance
Imagine an evening beneath the pastel glow of Rosemary Beach’s iconic white facades, where classic cobblestone streets meet bold feminine flair and cinematic romance. In this session, our couple channeled mob‑wife sophistication—think strong silhouettes, edgy style, and electric chemistry—set against Rosemary Beach’s chic boutiques and European-inspired courtyards. We wandered through the town center, paused for dramatic backdrops at the Pearl Hotel, and wrapped up the shoot with a golden hour stroll along the sand. This engagement session blends bold fashion with effortless coastal charm, creating a visual story that’s as bold and timeless as love itself.
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luxury tented reception
Imagine entering a twilight-soaked Central Park in Alys Beach, where an artfully designed luxury tent awaits—its walls open to soft sea breezes, olive-hued florals hanging overhead, and tables aglow with candlelight. Welcome to a tented wedding reception that blends coastal ease with architectural elegance. With custom cocktails, sweeping purple floral installations, and an ambiance of refined romance, this setting transforms Central Park into the ultimate backdrop for an elevated wedding celebration. It’s polished yet personal, modern yet romantic—the perfect way to celebrate your love under the clear Florida sky.
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Looking for more coastal options?
Step into Alex and Aaron’s wedding day in Cabo, where vibrant energy and heartfelt elegance blend against a backdrop of Baja warmth and ocean views. Their celebration unfolded with bright, personalized touches—sunlit preparations, emotional vows, and joyous laughter streaming across sunsets. Set in a location where every detail reflects the couple’s spirit, their wedding was a seamless narrative of love, family, and fine taste. As their photographer, I captured the day’s authentic moments—from first looks to dancing under the stars—creating a gallery that tells their story as beautifully as the destination itself does.
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