How to Have a Disney World Wedding
Soon-to-be-married couples hoping for a fairy tale wedding may consider hosting their wedding and reception at Disney World. From the background of the Magic Kingdom to nightly firework displays, the internationally phenomenal theme park Disney World is the perfect setting for exchanging wedding vows. Here are a few tips to help you plan a memorable Disney World wedding.
1. Type of Wedding
When hosting and planning a wedding, the first order of business is deciding how many people to include on your special day. Because Disney World weddings may require travel, some bride and grooms choose to keep the affair intimate. This usually involves inviting parents, siblings, grandparents, and close friends. However, if cost is not an issue, the theme park is large enough to accommodate a huge gala up to 250 people.
2. Contact and Arrange a Visit to Disney World
Disney weddings are common. Thus, the theme park has a pavilion which is intended to host special events. Before contacting the pavilion center, research the facility online. Upon contacting a special events coordinator, this person can provide answers to additional questions. If the wedding packages fit into your wedding budget, the coordinator will likely arrange a visit to the facility.
3. Discuss Wedding Packages
Unfortunately, Disney World weddings are not inexpensive. If planning a private wedding for two, without additional guests, couples can expect to pay something like $3,000. This price includes accommodations at a Disney resort and tickets to Disney attractions.
Disney weddings for up to 20 guests are priced around $8,000. For huge galas, in which a large number of family and friends are invited, anticipate spending between $19,000 and $25,000.
4. Wedding Coordinator vs. Making Own Arrangements
Disney wedding packages do not include the fee for a wedding coordinator. Couples must pay extra for this service. If hoping to cut down the wedding expense, forgo the coordinator. Of course, coordinators serve a useful purpose. Because of their experience, a wedding coordinator will not forget minor details that are often overlooked. However, it is possible to coordinate your own wedding and reception. To avoid forgetting an important detail, obtain a copy of a wedding checklist. These offer timely reminders for flowers, photographer, videographer, decorations, entertainment, etc.
5. Choose a Disney Theme
If hosting a Disney wedding, it's only appropriate to choose a Disney theme. Suitable weddings might include a Cinderella theme wedding, Aladdin, or Beauty and the Beast. For an additional fee, it may be possible to get a special appearance from one of the above Disney characters.
6. Pick an Off-Season Date
Although Disney is a world renown theme park, certain months throughout the year are considered off-season. When inquiring about wedding packages, ask about off-season prices. If there is a significant price difference, consider altering the wedding date.
7. Requirements for Marriage License in Florida
• Do not have to be a resident of Florida
• Apply with picture ID (driver's license, passport photo, military ID, etc) and Social Security card.
• If applicable, supply copy of divorce decree or death certificate for previous spouse.
• Complete state sanction marriage preparation course.
• Pay a fee of $93.50 to a local country clerk
• Florida marriage licenses are valid for 60 days.
