A Beach Wedding at the Hilton Clearwater Beach Resort in Clearwater Beach, Florida

Audrey Boesen (31 and a consultant) and Brad Hoffman (34 and a data analyst) became engaged about three years after they met through mutual friends. Brad popped the question during dinner at one of their favorite Italian restaurants in New York City. Over the next year, the couple worked to plan a fall wedding on the beach. “With both of our families spread throughout the East Coast and Midwest, we wanted to choose a location with a fun and laid back vibe that would be convenient for our close friends and family,” says Audrey. They decided on the Hilton Clearwater Beach Resort in Clearwater Beach, Florida, as their venue. Since they both love the color blue, Audrey and Brad chose a color palette of white, neutral and blue hues. A navy ribbon was set at the opening of their beach ceremony as palm fronds, white hydrangea and green hypericum berries lined the aisle. The couple said “I do,” under a bamboo wedding arch draped in white fabric. White and green hydrangea was placed at the top of each post. After the ceremony, Audrey, Brad and their 125 guests enjoyed a cocktail hour and reception at the resort’s covered deck. Round reception tables were accented with white linens, burlap overlays and low floral centerpieces in shades of white and green. After a seated meal, the couple served a four-tiered ivory wedding cake accented with fresh white peonies and green hypericum berries. The couple had expected to make their exit with wish lanterns but the wind led them to have a bonfire on the beach instead. “All of our guests were able to gather around the bonfire for more drinks, toasts and laughs. It was the perfect ending to our beach wedding,” says Audrey.