Known as Florida’s Paradise Coast, Naples, Marco Island and the Everglades are increasingly popular locations for destination weddings, honeymoons and even vow renewals. Located along the Gulf Coast of southwest Florida, Paradise Coast is hallmarked by stunning sunsets, gentle waves and soft sand beaches that provide the perfect backdrop for milestone celebrations.

We spoke with Michelle Pirre, who works in specialty markets for the Naples, Marco Island, Everglades Convention & Visitors Bureau, about this LGBTQ+ inclusive and affirming destination.

An aerial view of the Florida coastline.

Two people walk down a road lined with palm trees.

EQUALLY WED: Tell us about Paradise Coast.

PIRRE: Our spectacular destination offers an unparalleled 30-mile coastline of white sand beaches, luxury resorts and an impressive selection of distinctive outdoor and indoor venues. We are known for our spectacular sunset ceremonies, 5-star service, luxurious surroundings and sophisticated weddings.

Wedding planners are attracted to the area’s excellent hotel and resort-based facilities, and the area’s small city charm is enhanced by world-class amenities. From waterside luxury beach resorts and boutique locations in downtown Naples to art galleries and fine dining on the marina, Paradise Coast has everything you need for a relaxing and luxurious holiday.

For those with a more adventurous spirit, the Everglades offer natural wonders through nature tours, or you can enjoy a safari-style affair at the NGALA Wildlife Preserve.

What are three tips you could give the reader for planning their engagement, wedding or honeymoon?

Choosing dates can be overwhelming, some of the best months for weddings are April/May and October/November. Those months offer some of the best weather of the year and hotel rates are more reasonable.

To enhance your guests’ experience, be sure to plan some optional activities that your friends and family can participate in before and after your actual wedding day. Adding special touches such as sharing information about events or festivals that will be taking place during their visit is helpful.

If you are unfamiliar with the area, contact a local planner or resort who can assist with arrangements!

What else should engaged LGBTQ+ couples and marriers know about Paradise Coast?

Many hotels and resorts offer different packages for your special event, from ceremony options to proposals and intimate vow renewals. Be sure to check individual sites for current offerings and information specific to their resort.

Florida’s Paradise Coast looks forward to welcoming you to our beautiful destination!

A car-lined street with palm trees and a blue sky.

Two white people in front of the ocean, one on a bended knee proposing.

Two people with long hair sit under a beach cabana and enjoy a candlelit dinner.

Two people stand, holding hands, against a sunset overlooking the ocean.

NAPLES, MARCO ISLAND AND THE EVERGLADES: FLORIDA’S PARADISE COAST
Naples, FL, USA
Marco Island, Florida
Everglades, Florida
(239) 252-5380
paradisecoast.com

Paradise Coast is a member of the Equally Wed community of LGBTQ+ inclusive and affirming wedding pros who celebrate LGBTQ+ love and marriage. Visit their page on our site.

This is a sponsored post paid for by Paradise Coast. Market your LGBTQ+ inclusive and affirming business to our audience of LGBTQ+ people planning their engagements, weddings and honeymoons, please reach out to us at advertising@equallywed.com.

All photos courtesy of Paradise Coast.