Say “I Do” To A Micro Wedding At Parrot Key
Big events may be cancelled this year, but celebrating love is certainly not. Key West’s premier wedding planner, Ana Aguilar, shares her insight for planning the perfect micro wedding at Parrot Key.
In the face of a new normal, many couples are reimagining their big day with “micro weddings,” intimate ceremonies featuring all of the beloved traditions that make a wedding, but on a much smaller scale. The micro wedding guest list is typically capped at 20-50 guests, but that doesn’t mean the party is off! On the contrary, micro weddings offer brides- and grooms-to-be an opportunity to spend more quality time with their nearest and dearest, and also save money to splurge elsewhere.
Naturally, 2020 has introduced new must-haves for celebrations of every kind, micro weddings included. Spacious outdoor venues are in high demand. And gone are the days of buffet-style catering and conga lines (actually, that one we’re okay to part ways with…) To make sense of it all, we reached out Key West’s premier wedding planner, Ana Aguilar, to share her expertise and what she loves most about micro weddings at Parrot Key.
DREAM BIG, PLAN SMALL
Trimming down your guest list is arguably one of the most challenging aspects of micro weddings. But Ana assures couples there are plenty of perks that come with it. “Don’t stress the guest list,” she says. “With fewer guests comes more opportunity! Since micro weddings entail less planning and more money saved, couples can splurge on experiences they may not have considered otherwise like a live band, personalized welcome bags for guests, and decadent multi-course menus.”
Another splurge-worthy item Ana suggests? Live streaming your micro wedding. “Even though they aren’t there in person, your friends and family can still take part in your special day through a professional live stream.” You can also save the recording as a second wedding video, a keepsake you’ll cherish forever.
If you’re feeling overwhelmed by planning and pivots, you’re not alone. Luckily you can leave the logistics to the pros. Ana’s “Simple, Tropical & Elegant Micro Wedding” package takes care of all the must-haves for your event, including your marriage license, photography, bridal bouquet, and even an ordained minister or notary public for your ceremony.
LOCATION IS KEY
Spacious, outdoor venues offer peace of mind for micro weddings in today’s age. At Parrot Key, couples have their pick of beautiful on-site locations framed by turquoise waters and lush greenery.
“The multi-pool cocktail party is a must,” says Ana. With four separate pools and five acres of tropical gardens to wander, your guests will feel like they’ve arrived in their own private paradise.
On your big day, say “I do” on a secluded dock overlooking the Gulf of Mexico or embrace the island life with a barefoot ceremony on our white sand waterfront. With Mother Nature as your backdrop, every moment will feel like a fairytale.
Ready to celebrate? Of course you are! Our dedicated team is standing by with bubbly and delicious catering from The Grove to keep the merriment going. After you’ve (safely!) partied the night away with your closest friends and family, retreat to one of Parrot Key’s award-winning villas or suites, located just steps away from your reception.
“Gorgeous venues, waterfront accommodations, on-site experiences. Parrot Key has everything under one roof,” explains Ana. “You never need to leave…and why would you want to?!”
CELEBRATE WITH FLAIR
What’s a Key West wedding without some fun in the sun? Whatever the interests of you and your guests, Key West offers something unique and exciting for everyone.
Thrill seekers will love Parrot Key’s watersports packages. Jet ski across endless miles of ocean, snorkel up-close to marvelous coral reef, or try your hand at parasailing. Best of all, our watersports can be accessed directly on site for maximum adventure time.
There are plenty of laid back activities to enjoy on the island too. “The Key West Butterfly Conservatory and Dry Tortugas tours are fantastic!” Ana says. Guests of Parrot Key can also hop on a complimentary shuttle to the heart of the action, located just minutes away.
Though technically part of Florida, Key West marches to the beat of its own drum. Discover the island’s vibrant, quirky way of life at Duval Street, where local bars and restaurants welcome guests with live music, boozy cocktails and cheeky humor. In historic Old Town, take a tour through Ernest Hemingway’s Home, or visit Harry S. Truman’s famous Little White House. Don’t forget a group photo at Southernmost Point, an iconic Key West landmark just 90 miles north of Cuba!
PLAN YOUR MICRO WEDDING AT PARROT KEY
Whether you’re planning a micro wedding in the coming months or years ahead, Parrot Key is ready to bring your island dreams to life.
For more information on Parrot Key’s venues, accommodations, and our enhanced health and safety protocols, please contact us at (866) 984-1519. To contact Ana Aguilar, please email keywestweddingday@gmail.com or call 305-294-9440.
Written by: Caitlin Driscoll
