Fort Lauderdale's Atlantic coastline and intricate canal system create a wedding destination unlike any other. You'll find gorgeous ceremony options stretching from pristine beaches to elegant venues that overlook the Intracoastal Waterway, all bathed in abundant Florida sunshine year-round.

Fort Lauderdale earned its nickname "Venice of America" thanks to its navigable waterways that add nautical charm to your special day. February tops the list as the most popular month for couples searching for their perfect venue, with most smart couples locking in their location about 12 months before the big day to ensure they get their first choice.

Wedding venues in Fort Lauderdale average around $8,532 which typically accounts for 16% of your total wedding budget. This compares to the national range of $6,500-$12,000 so you're getting good value even in this premium location. Local venues start from about $7,700 on the lower end while premium waterfront spots reach around $9,400.

For a small wedding with 50 guests you'll spend approximately $23,213 total. Medium celebrations with 100 guests average $38,449 while 150-guest weddings typically run $52,770. Larger affairs naturally cost more with 200 guests at $65,567, 250 guests at $78,364 and those grand 300-guest celebrations reaching $91,161.

Fort Lauderdale's signature oceanfront venues showcase the Atlantic's stunning turquoise waters as your ceremony backdrop. The Hilton Fort Lauderdale Beach Resort offers gorgeous oceanfront ceremonies complemented by contemporary architecture that photographs beautifully. B Ocean Resort gives you private beach access for your ceremony then welcomes your guests to their iconic Promenade Ballroom which accommodates up to 200 people at about $104 per person.

Riverside Hotel sits on the famous Las Olas Boulevard and perfectly blends historic charm with modern amenities you'll appreciate. You can host a riverfront ceremony with the Fort Lauderdale skyline creating a dramatic backdrop for your vows. Receptions start at $160 per guest which includes many of the essentials you'll need.

B Ocean Resort offers complete accessibility with ramps and elevators connecting all areas so everyone can enjoy your celebration. Sonesta Fort Lauderdale Beach features wheelchair-accessible elevators and clear pathways throughout. Riverside Hotel provides accessible entrances elevators and pathways across its riverfront spaces ensuring all your guests can participate comfortably.

The Venue Fort Lauderdale offers cutting-edge technology that creates truly immersive remote experiences beyond basic streaming for guests who can't attend in person. You'll have 42,000 square feet of customizable space that can accommodate advanced remote participation elements while still creating an incredible experience for your in-person guests.

Mai Kai Restaurant has been a Fort Lauderdale institution since 1956 and combines amazing Polynesian cuisine with cultural performances your guests will talk about for years. Chima Brazilian Steakhouse on Las Olas Boulevard offers traditional rodizio service in elegant private dining rooms. Timpano Las Olas provides a decadent menu in both indoor and outdoor spaces so you can choose the perfect setting for your taste.

Beyond venue costs at 16% of your budget other major expenses include catering at $6,826 florals also running $6,826 bar services at $5,461 photography at $4,479 videography at $4,437 and planning assistance at $4,095.

Fort Lauderdale's unique waterways create wedding opportunities you simply won't find elsewhere. You can arrange water taxi transportation for your wedding party use chartered yachts for unforgettable celebrations or schedule sunset photo sessions that capture the city's iconic waterfront. These distinctive touches will make your wedding truly memorable.