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^{Photo Credit: Love Letters; @lovelettersco_fl}

Destination weddings are magical, truly - and we’ve seen them all, from Amalfi Coast affairs to Palm Springs soirees. But from what we’ve learned about weddings on The Beaches of Fort Myers & Sanibel, there is something so special about the ‘I dos’ that happen here. Not only do they bring wedding dreams to life for newlyweds, they also make Fort Myers and Sanibel believers and lifelong vacationers out of their wedding guests. We caught up with two recently-married brides who chose The Beaches of Fort Myers & Sanibel for their nuptials, and their biggest takeaway was this: marry the love of your life in a place that brings you and your favorite people together for the best few days of your collective lives.

If you’re already a fan of Southwest Florida, having your wedding there will be icing on the wedding cake 

Both Laurin and Natalia were loyalists to the Fort Myers area long before rings were on those fingers, so when it came time to decide where they’d seal the deal with their vows, it was a total no brainer. 

Laurin grew up with Fort Myers and Sanibel as her family’s favorite vacation spot. She had incredible memories of the Marriott Sanibel Harbour Resort & Spa, but for her wedding, she wanted to experience the beach in a new way - she picked Pink Shell Beach Resort & Marina on Fort Myers Beach to marry her soulmate. Natalia chose the Hyatt Regency Coconut Point Resort and Spa in Bonita Springs, because when she was young, she’d visit her uncle (who worked there) on weekends and spend hours - if not days - playing in the sand and surf and lounging by the pool. 

While their weddings were different, a polished party in the Hyatt Regency’s ballroom and a boho beach wedding with an open-air reception at Pink Shell, both brides recall their favorite part of the experience: sharing a few days in paradise with the most important people in their lives. Read on to hear more.

Pink Shell Beach Resort & Marina

^{Photo Credit: Love Letters; @lovelettersco_fl}

^{Photo Credit: Love Letters; @lovelettersco_fl}

“On 5/1/21 I married the absolute love of my life at my favorite place on earth surrounded by the people who mean the most to me. Feeling like I’m in a fairytale, because this day was so much more than I had prepared myself for. All of the things I was stressing about didn’t matter at all. All that mattered was us, together with our favorite people.” ~ Laurin

^{Photo Credit: Love Letters; @lovelettersco_fl}

^{Photo Credit: Love Letters; @lovelettersco_fl}

^{Photo Credit: Love Letters; @lovelettersco_fl}

“We have gone on vacation to Fort Myers with my family ever since I was a kid, it’s my favorite place in the world! I usually stay at the Marriott Sanibel Harbour Resort & Spa when we stay in Fort Myers, but I’ve always wanted to go to Pink Shell and they have a lot of things included in their wedding package. It was a perfect fit for us!” ~ Laurin

^{Photo Credit: Love Letters; @lovelettersco_fl}

Some other special things that make Pink Shell Beach Resort & Marina major marriage material

• Their dedicated wedding team provides unmatched personal attention to every couple. And not only to the guests of honor, but to their extended friends and family. The resort staff members brim with hospitality to ensure you and the best people in your life enjoy your stay and won't come close to forgetting the wedding day. 
• The resort truly lives up to its name - i.e. a little pink piece of paradise. With its fun and refreshing retro vibe, endlessly-warm and comforting breeze in the air, beyond-blue water, and white sandy beaches, it's like you're exchanging vows in a scene that's only been spotted on postcards. 
• No matter the formality of your wedding day - be it black-tie or laid-back, relaxed, and beachy - Pink Shell is prepared to be your canvas. The property is kept in infinitely pristine condition, and it boasts multiple ceremony and reception options to accommodate your greatest wishes and desires.
• Your guests will never want for activities (which is a concern with wedding weekends, in general). They can hang out at the pool, head to the beach, go for a paddle, nibble at the beachside bar, and explore the shore. In between your celebrations, they'll be making their own memories.

^{Photo Credit: Love Letters; @lovelettersco_fl}

^{Photo Credit: Love Letters; @lovelettersco_fl}

Activities surrounding
the PINK SHELL BEACH RESORT & MARINA

Times Square

Times Square is considered the heart of Fort Myers Beach. It's full of shops and restaurants, with features like outdoor dining, street performers, and plenty of spots to sit down and relax. There's even a trolley that can run guests from the Pink Shell to the Times Square area and beyond.

Boat charters

Fort Myers Beach has countless boat charters that offer dolphin tours, fishing charters, shelling, and sunset cruises. You'll see dolphins and other types of wildlife on these exciting nature excursions. You might even spot a gentle manatee. 

Lovers Key State Park

Lovers Key State Park is an amazing and romantic location that boasts an untarnished two-mile stretch of white sandy beach. Hop in a kayak or just enjoy the views and lounge under an umbrella on the shore. You can explore spectacular canals and lagoons that happen to be a favorite grazing spot for manatees and shorebirds. You might even spot a dolphin’s dorsal fin in the calm, warm waters.

MOUND HOUSE

Mound House is the oldest standing structure on Fort Myers Beach. Choose from guided tours and beach walks to kayak eco-tours. There's even a unique archaeological experience option to explore the history of the 2,000-year-old Calusa Indian Shell Mound and the surrounding natural environment.

^{Photo Credit: Love Letters; @lovelettersco_fl}

Hyatt Regency Coconut Point Resort and Spa

^{Photo Credit: Courtney Garbow; @courtneygarbowphotography}

“When we lived there, we used to go there for the weekend just to see my uncle and spend the day at the pool and beach. We’ve had family reunions, weekend trips with Kyle and me, and so many other special events that happened at the Hyatt Regency in Coconut Point. There was no doubt in our mind that we would get married there!" ~ Natalia 

^{Photo Credit: Courtney Garbow; @courtneygarbowphotography}

^{Photo Credit: Courtney Garbow; @courtneygarbowphotography}

^{PHOTO CREDIT: Courtney Garbow; @courtneygarbowphotography}

^{Photo Credit: Courtney Garbow; @courtneygarbowphotography}

“Being able to do our rehearsal dinner, wedding, and day after brunch at the Hyatt, and having all of our friends and family stay at the same place, that was the best! ” ~ Natalia

^{Photo Credit: Courtney Garbow; @courtneygarbowphotography}

SOME OTHER SPECIAL THINGS ABOUT THE HYATT REGENCY COCONUT POINT REsort AND SPA THAT SPEAK TO ITS TAKE-THE-PLUNGE-HERE POTENTIAL 

• This is a grand resort, and when you're deciding on a place to say 'I do,' isn't that what you want? A grand locale for the grandest occasion? Sometimes the details get lost when you're a larger resort, but in no way, shape, or form is that a reality at Hyatt Regency Coconut Point Resort and Spa. 

• Couples get to know their options for an on-site wedding within minutes of arriving to the resort (if they haven't already covered off on it in conversations with the planning staff, prior to their arrival). There are so many gorgeous outposts to host your ceremony and reception here - and, admittedly, the vibe is reminiscent of Palm Springs, with all of its charm and mod, and none of its kitsch. 

• The resort takes exceptional care to light the entire property, which lends some moodiness and marquee importance to your wedding backdrop.

• And as for guests? Well, they never have to say 'eh, the wedding was fine - as weddings go,' again. While they're staying in the Fort Myers area, and at the Hyatt Regency, specifically, they'll have time and motivation to do things they may never have thought of before: spontaneously hopping on a boat to check out the various islands that dot the coast and dolphin watch, for one... 

• The beauty of a destination wedding is in its simplicity - there can be no pressure or stress in paradise, arewerite? So, for a second, imagine your guests arriving for their long weekend away. They can check in and then promptly check out by unplugging. Start by walking the nature trail to the resort’s marina and hop on board the ferry for a 15 minute crossing of Estero Bay. Along the way, you'll peep pods of dolphins and do a little birdwatching. Once you arrive on Big Hickory Island, you'll soak up the sun at the area’s most pristine beach with spectacular shelling, beach chairs & umbrellas, a covered picnic pavilion, and boardwalk. 

• Might we also recommend heading to the pool, and sipping on a tropical cocktail? Since everything is on-site, there's also no huge rush to get ready and make it anywhere. They can towel off, go upstairs to get ready (no directions needed, no driving or searching for beach parking, etc.), and then amble over to the first of probably many pre-wedding mini events. A drink on the way? No problem!  

^{PHOTO CREDIT: Courtney Garbow; @courtneygarbowphotography}

AND A WELL-ROUNDED VACATION EXPERIENCE FOR THEIR GUESTS MADE IT EVEN BETTER FOR NATALIA AND LAURIN

Check out their real weddings to get the full picture on all the fun things that Natalia and Laurin got to do with their friends and family - but if you’re planning your wedding, maybe take note of these particular points of interest:

CHOCOLATTÉS COFFEE & ROASTING

Located roughly 30 minutes outside of the Hyatt Regency Coconut Point Resort and Spa, this family-owned, in-house-roasting coffee shop is worth the drive (especially if your guests will be out and about in the greater Fort Myers area). They have peanut butter and honey toast that’s TDF, but what we love even more? Their mobile choco-cart, to bring their signature coffee and caffeinated vibe to your event. Custom designed for you and your guests, their simple cart - offering freshly-brewed drip coffee, cold brew on tap, mocktails and more - brings a ton of energy, without taking up much space at all. 

Sunset Beach Portraits

Like we said, come for the wedding - stay for the memories. If you’ll be tying the knot at Pink Shell, your guests will jump at the opportunity to have a photoshoot on the beach (holiday card-worthiness guaranteed). One and two-hour sessions are available!

Dine-In Movies

We get it, some friends and family members have kids (me! I do!), so it really puts a crimp in their capacity to do much, let alone a destination wedding. Well, Pink Shell has plenty for the kiddos to do, including a plethora of family fun activities like movies and munchies at their Octopool.

All Water Excursions

The Hyatt Regency Coconut Point Resort and Spa watersports partner All Water Excursions is located at the lobby level. Plan a day on the water with WaveRunner Tours, guided kayak excursions, sunset cruises, fishing trips, private beach charters, and many more activities.

Coconut Point

Coconut Point Mall is just 1.5 miles from the Hyatt Regency Coconut Point Resort and Spa with more than 140 stores including the Apple Store and Sephora plus cinemas, restaurants and a children's play area. Scheduled shuttle service from the resort is available.

Raptor Bay Golf Club

Raptor Bay is the first Audubon Certified golf course in the USA, with a design that's respectful to the environment. You'll experience the beauty of nature and tournament quality course conditions that give every player an exemplary golfing experience. Located adjacent to the Hyatt Regency Coconut Point Resort and Spa, hourly trolley transportation to the clubhouse is provided.

Miromar Outlets

Located in Estero, the Miromar Outlets feature 140 name brand outlets and factory stores.

Luminary Hotel & Co.

^{Photo Credit: Love Letters; @lovelettersco_fl}

At Luminary Hotel & Co. in downtown Fort Myers, dreams and aspirations are right at home - so you can let your wildest imaginations spark your ultimate heart’s desire. Guests will be recounting this memorable moment for years to come, while you happily bask in the afterglow. Their wedding specialists, including day-of coordinator, Kristin Bean, will flawlessly execute all the events surrounding your big day, including and not limited to your rehearsal dinner, bridal brunch, ceremony, reception and after-party.

^{Photo Credit: Love Letters; @lovelettersco_fl}

This real wedding was a case study on classic, yet modern and sophisticated wedding styling. Captured by Love Letters, with florals by Fort Myers Florist, a posh party vibe set by Curate Entertainment, and modern neon provided by Hey! Let's Party!

^{Photo Credit: Love Letters; @lovelettersco_fl}

^{Photo Credit: Love Letters; @lovelettersco_fl}

SOME OTHER SPECIAL THINGS THAT GIVE THE LUMINARY HOTEL & CO. AN AISLE-WORTHY ADVANTAGE 

• Cool couples hyped about an ultra-hip wedding? Look no further than the newly-opened, riverfront Luminary - located in downtown Fort Myers. 

• As any Autograph Collection Hotel (Marriott's specially-curated edit of hotels that are "exactly like nothing else"), the Luminary prides itself on customer experience. Hand-selected for its inherent craft and distinct perspectives on design and hospitality, the stead offers incredibly-rich, immersive moments that leave a lasting imprint on couples getting married and their MVPs. 

• The property speaks for itself with expansive water views (that frame both the ceremony and reception, and your pre-and post-wedding wake-ups, beautifully), a rooftop ceremony option, and a very in-vogue fourth floor outdoor pool and bar. Coupled with the Luminary's ultimate rooftop restaurant and bar, Beacon Social Drinkery, Luminary makes for an unreal after party, if you ask us! 

• Overlooking the park and the hypnotizingly-calm Caloosahatchee river, the pool is complete with lounge chairs, umbrellas, and an expansive sundeck to graciously host your wedding morning getting-ready routine with the guys and girls. 

^{Photo Credit: Love Letters; @lovelettersco_fl}

With so many things to do at the hotel and just a short stroll away from its perimeter, the Luminary is a perfect wedding destination that will also give your guests their own vacation.

Oxbow Bar & Grill

This Riverfront cool restaurant is a casual dining retreat with indoor and outdoor seating with views for days. The food, the views and the service give an elevated feel that goes above and beyond their self-description of casual dining. They even have an unexpectedly cool retail section that encourages urban adventure with sportswear, gear, accessories and that souvenir or gift you never knew you couldn’t live without.

Millennial Brewing Co

Millennial Brewing Co is the first craft brewery in downtown Fort Myers. It's pet and family friendly! This is close walking distance to the hotel and we highly recommend getting a beer flight and let your bartender surprise you. Hungry? Just pop outside to the food trucks! There's a different truck there Tuesday through Sunday and all trucks have vegan and kid-friendly options. 

Celsius Night Club

Want to get your dance on? Celsius Night Club, Southwest Florida's premiere nightlife venue, is situated right behind the hotel. Though we didn't personally go, we did walk by the line to get in and it looked like fun!

Walk Around Downtown

Just take a stroll around downtown Fort Myers (aka The Historic River District), it's impossibly cute! You'll find coffee shops, cafes, art galleries, tons of restaurants & bars and plenty of shopping.  

and Wanna know a secret? There’s a diner on-site. 

^{Photo Credit: Love Letters; @lovelettersco_fl}

That’s right, the Luminary knows what people want on vacation - and that’s comfort food and a relaxed vibe for dayssss. Ella Mae’s is a fun, retro-inspired eatery serving up nostalgia and the best breakfast around. It makes waking up in paradise, once the wedding is over, sort of okay. Bourbon pecan French toast makes everything better...

Thinking of having your dream wedding somewhere on the beaches of Fort Myers & Sanibel? 

Well, you don't have to imagine the day blindly, because we've got real wedding photos from five events that happened IRL at these fabulous venues + more: Casa Ybel Beach Resort, Hyatt Regency Coconut Point Resort and Spa, Marriott Sanibel Harbour Resort & Spa, Pink Shell Beach Resort & Marina, and Lovers Key State Park. Spoiler alert: they're all breathtaking so check them out here.

Learn more about having your wedding on The Beaches of Fort Myers & Sanibel here and request personalized information here.

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