Frequently Asked Questions for Weddings
May I put a hold on a specific date while I visit other venues?
How far in advance do I need to obtain a Marriage License?
To obtain a marriage license in Pinellas County, Florida, both persons must be present when applying for a marriage license, to sign the application Form and take an oath of truthfulness of the information provided. In addition, both must provide proof that each person is at least 18 years of age, has proof of identification, Social Security numbers or Alien Registration Number, and complete the application form.
The marriage license is valid for 60 days from the issue date and the ceremony must be performed between the effective date and the expiration date. Blood tests are not required in the state of Florida. For more information visit the Clerk of the Circuit Court.
What should I expect about the location and privacy of having a beach ceremony?
We cannot guarantee locations, the location selected may be modified to accommodate changes in event size, duration, activities and amenities or to minimize scheduling conflicts. Honeymoon Island is a State Park with public beaches. There are no private areas however, we do reserve a private area based on your guest count. There are no guarantee of privacy at your assigned location. Honeymoon Island is open to the public and public event organizers who utilize the location as well.
Where should my guests park and do they have to pay?
You and your guests are welcome to use the available public beach parking areas. It is at the option of the host to pay for their guest’s entrance fee prior to the event. Special group pricing is available upon request.
What is your catering & cake policy?
No outside caterers are permitted on Honeymoon Island, with the exception of wedding cake or specialty desserts purchased through a licensed vendor. Honeymoon Island Events House Policy states that there will be a required service fee of $4 per person applied to any cakes brought to the event that have not been purchased from us.
What is your role as a venue coordinator?
We are dedicated to helping you plan the event of your dreams and are available to answer questions and offer any guidance you may need. Our venue coordinators are your point of contact leading up to the day of your event. For additional coordination on the day of your wedding, a ‘Day Of’ coordinator can be added to your ceremony package and if you are hosting your reception with us, our banquet captain will ensure your reception stays on schedule and everything goes smoothly.
Is the menu customizable?
Of course! We are always happy to create a custom menu for your event. Our pre-made menus are simply a sample of what we have to offer. We work with you and our executive chef to create a menu to fit your needs. Honeymoon Island can also accommodate any dietary restrictions. Please note that changes and substitutions may alter the menu price.
What are the linen colors and sizes? Are they included?
Honeymoon Island Events provides white square table linens at no additional cost to you. The client, at additional cost, may rent floor length linens, table runners, overlays & more. Your coordinator will be happy to assist you in ordering & renting costs.
Is there a park fee?
Yes, there are park service and entrance fees. In addition, we are permitted to host events after hours. For after hour events, we hire security. The security fee is $125 cash.
Can I have a bonfire during my wedding/party?
Unfortunately, no. Open flame is not allowed on Honeymoon Island because of the risk it poses to the wildlife on the beach.
Can I fly a drone?
Unfortunately, no. Launching and/or landing a drone is prohibited within Florida State Parks.
What's not permitted on the beach/park?
- Fires
- Tiki Torches
- Sparklers or fireworks
- Gas generators
- Bird Seed
- Flowers Seeds
- Confetti/balloons
- Floating lanterns (air or sea)
- Artificial flower petals
House Policies and Guidelines
Deposits & Cancellation Policy
Payment Terms
Your initial deposit is required prior to the signing of the event contract. Remaining event balances will be paid as follows:
- Due 90 days prior to event date – 50% of your Banquet Event Order Minimum
- Due 60 days prior to event date – 100% of your Banquet Event Order Minimum
- Due two (2) weeks prior to your event – Final payment (100%) of the balance for your event
Payments can be made by credit card, cash or check. Personal checks can not be accepted for payment less than 14 days prior to the event and must be made out to Florida Beach Services.
Event Time & Duration
Private events taking place with Honeymoon Island Events or a portion thereof have maximum duration of four hours, not including set-up and takedown of the space. Set-Up for each event begins approximately two hours prior to the contracted event start time. If the event exceeds the contracted event time, a $500 per hour overtime charge will be added to your final bill for the rental space. Additional hours securing use of the rental space may also be purchased ahead of time for $500. In compliance with Florida State Parks, all events must have a scheduled end time no later than 11pm.
Food & Beverage Minimums
Alcohol Policy
No outside alcohol is allowed onto the Honeymoon Island Events property. Florida law requires that guests be a minimum of 21 years old to consume alcoholic beverages. Honeymoon Island Events reserves the right to refuse service of alcohol to anyone including the host(s) of the event. Honeymoon Island Events also reserves the right to request proper identification should the age of a guest be in question.
Decor
You are allowed to decorate for your event two hours prior. In keeping our wildlife island inhabitants safe, no inorganic decor is to be used. I.e. Fake flower petals, loose glitter, confetti, birdseed, rice, or similar decorations are not allowed. It is the client’s responsibility at the end of the night to take down any decor they have brought into the park. Our staff is happy to assist you in any way we can.
Guaranteed Guest Counts
Your guaranteed guest count as well as your final payment is due two weeks prior to your event. If a guaranteed guest count is not received within two weeks of your event, Honeymoon Island Events reserves the right to use the contracted number as your guaranteed number. Any changes made after the two week mark will incur a $75 fee for each occurrence.
Gratuity, Service Charge and Sales Tax (“gratuity” added)
All ceremony charges are subject to a 25% service charge, 7% sales tax and 15% park service fee. Tax and service charge are subject to change without notice. Service charge is taxable in the state of Florida. Additional gratuity is always appreciated, however it is never expected since this is built into the service charge.
Contracted vendors
The event host is required to provide Honeymoon Island Events with the name and contact information for all outside vendors contracted for your event. Honeymoon Island Events provides a preferred vendor list for your convenience. Honeymoon Island Events is not responsible for any damages or injury caused due to the negligence of vendors or guests
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