The summer months are some of the most popular times of the year for weddings, with many couples seeking tropical destinations to host their event. Aruba, the Bahamas, and Florida are favorite wedding venues, with the latter two being among the most prized. Unfortunately, both locations are smack in the middle of hurricane territory, increasing the risks of wedding plans being canceled should a storm hit. Are you thinking of a tropical wedding? If so, don’t let your choice of venue ruin your day; instead, consider taking a few important steps to make sure your wedding plans go ahead no matter what the weather conditions.
Before making plans to host your wedding away from home, especially in an area prone to hurricane activity, there are a few things to consider first:
Location Is Everything. Sugar-white sand beaches are an enticing and unforgettable location for a tropical wedding. Just before sunset, you and your fiancé gather with your guests to exchange vows as the fiery red sun slowly sets in the west. A cool, calm breeze and the breath of fresh ocean air will delight you and your wedding party, who are captivated by your choice of setting. Then you move indoors or to a nearby outdoor pavilion for a celebration that lasts into the early hours of the morning.
That gentle breeze can quickly turn into a gale as storm clouds roll in and waves pick up. Soon, their outdoor wedding plans are threatened. If you’re determined to hold your wedding during hurricane season, your entire event could be canceled, especially if it’s taking place in an evacuation zone. These evacuation zones, which include the beach and its surroundings, are always the first to close when a major storm threatens and the last to reopen when everything calms down. Can you afford the delay? Will your facility be up and running when you return?
Preparation is the key. Even if your place is not evacuated, do you have a backup generator on hand in case you lose power? Will each of your suppliers stay or leave at the first sign of trouble? Remember, their minds may be on protecting their personal belongings and ensuring the safety of family members first. Who could blame them? However, it is important that you know if things can continue as planned despite the adverse weather conditions.
Contingency plans are necessary. Out-of-town guests may have trouble getting there if airports are closed, roads and hotels fill with people fleeing the affected area. Fort Lauderdale could be the target, but your Pensacola Beach wedding plans may still be threatened if the area becomes inundated with evacuees. Make sure your guests are financially protected in case your wedding plans are canceled or you move to another location. Encourage everyone to purchase travel insurance to cover worst case scenarios.
Of course, by now you may be completely rethinking your idea of a Florida wedding. Some of the other destinations are likely to be attractive, but might be too expensive by comparison. However, if you choose to get married in Florida during the January to April period, the chances of an unseasonable hurricane derailing your plans are slim to none. Plus, you and your guests may appreciate the off-season getaway, especially after enduring a long, cold winter!
