Aug 20, 2007

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE                                              
August 2007

CONTACTS: Nancy Hamilton, Lee Rose (239)338-3500

Say ´I do' to a paradise wedding along The Beaches of Fort Myers & Sanibel

LEE COUNTY, FL – Balmy breezes, endless Gulf beaches and year-round sunshine make southwest Florida's Beaches of Fort Myers & Sanibel one of the world's most romantic destinations. For those seeking a secluded spot for a wedding in paradise, the area offers every accommodation and setting to make your special day unforgettable.

In addition to an abundance of natural beauty and recreational opportunities, there is an endless array of world-class resorts, restaurants, services and facilities that cater to weddings of all sizes and types.  From a simple ceremony on the beach to a formal wedding with a reception in a luxury resort, the area is a popular destination for memorable weddings.

Award-winning beaches and spectacular sunsets are the main attraction in the area which includes Sanibel & Captiva islands, Fort Myers Beach, Fort Myers, Bonita Springs, Estero,   Cape Coral, Pine Island, Boca Grande & Outer Islands, North Fort Myers, and Lehigh Acres.

Weddings in paradise:  location, location, location!

Lovers Key

Just south of Fort Myers Beach, Lovers Key is Florida's most romantic state park.  Overlooking the Gulf of Mexico, the recreation area includes more than 1,900 acres of breathtaking natural habitat and 2.5 miles of beaches.  This provides a dramatic backdrop for a unique, turn-of-the-century gazebo which is available for weddings. The picturesque, open-air structure and the park's secluded Gulf-front setting, have bolstered Lovers Key's recognition as
Florida's most romantic state park and made it a preferred site for beachside weddings and the party after.  For information call (239)463-4588 or visit www.floridastateparks.org.

Bowditch Point

Located on the northern tip of Estero Island, this 17-acre park offers a beautiful setting with a courtyard pavilion for weddings and receptions.  For information call (239)-463-1116 or visit www.leeparks.org.

Henry Ford Winter Estate

For an outdoor wedding to remember, the historic winter residence of legendary automobile maker Henry Ford, friend and neighbor of inventor Thomas Alva Edison, is a magical location. This beautiful, two-story home with large porches was built in 1911 and purchased by Ford in 1916. The home is situated on 3 acres of waterfront property with a beautiful view of the Caloosahatchee River. Mature trees including a citrus grove, a natural aisle of Royal Palm trees and an assortment of bamboo, pine, oak and many others provide a beautiful old southwest Florida tropical paradise. Wedding guests are invited to walk the estate grounds and see where history was made.  For information on wedding packages, call (239)461-2687 or visit www.edison-ford-estate.com.

Island weddings

The area is famous for its stretches of pristine beaches and storybook settings ideal for private ceremonies. Captiva Island has been ranked as one of the country's most romantic beaches by Stephen Leatherman, Ph.D., recognized as the nation's foremost beach authority and a professor at Florida International University of Miami.

To make it easy for out-of-town visitors to tie the knot, there are wedding planners and consultants throughout the area who can assist with everything from site selection and hotel reservations to flowers and photography. Matlacha-based Extraordinary Eventz plans all aspects of the wedding with customized packages available for any size wedding.  For information call (239)282-9526 or visit www.extraordinary.com.  For a list of wedding planners, go to www.fortmyers-sanibel.com. 

Casa Ybel Resort, Sanibel Island

Ranked by Conde Nast Traveler as one of the Best Places to stay in the World, Florida's Sanibel Island provides an unspoiled natural backdrop for any romantic occasion.  Casa Ybel Resort is situated on 23 acres of beachfront property, setting the stage for a secluded romantic getaway. 

An on-site wedding planner is available and a variety of options are available for food and beverage needs. Romantic locations from beachfront and ocean view to garden and indoors are available.  The resort is a great location for a combination destination wedding and honeymoon.  Casa Ybel Resort has recently welcomed Executive Chef Mark Davidson, a graduate of the Culinary Institute of America with more than 20 years experience as an executive chef. 
The Island Romance Package includes two nights' accommodations in a one-bedroom beachfront suite; exclusive resort amenities; and voucher for a dinner for two at the hotel's beachfront Thistle Lodge.  Rates begin at $690 per couple on weekdays and $750 on weekends.  Valid through Dec. 13.  For information call (800)276-4753 or visit www.casaybelresort/packages.

West Wind Inn Resort, Sanibel Island 

A casual island resort with miles of beach to explore, this is an ideal setting for beach weddings.  The resort specializes in small weddings up to 40 guests in a private room or larger weddings in outdoor settings such as a butterfly garden.  Special honeymoon packages are available.  For information call (800)824-0476 or visit www.westwindinn.com.

Song of the Sea,  Sanibel Island

Nestled beside the warm waters of the Gulf of Mexico, Song of the Sea is Sanibel Island's intimate seaside retreat offers a charming, romantic getaway in a quaint setting.   A complimentary bottle of wine greets every guest staying in one of the 30 fully renovated, cozy
rooms with private-screened porches, Bermuda shutters and lazy ceiling fans to circulate calm  Gulf breezes.  For information on wedding planning and rates for a romantic getaway, call (800)522-5552 or visit www.sanibelcollection.com.
Captiva Island Inn, Captiva Island
 
Located in the historic Captiva Village, the pastel painted cottages with gingerbread and white picket fences give this inn the charm that appeals to many wedding planners.  With gentle breezes and a relaxed island style atmosphere, the inn has done everything from pool parties with guests in flip flops to formal weddings on the beach.  A wedding planner is on staff to assist with florists, photographers, bakers, ministers and justice of the peace and to help create a romantic wedding for up to 150 people.  

Accommodations include individual one-and two- bedroom cottages, a loft and a villa, some with kitchens.  A traditional bed and breakfast inn with a honeymoon suite is also available.  Guests may rent by room or rent the entire five-bedroom house.  A pool and spa, along with complimentary bikes and beach chairs are included along with a full breakfast each day. The inn has been acclaimed in Southern Living and Coastal Living magazines.
 Rates:  As low as $99 per night for a room; up to $190 - $450 per night for the honeymoon suite.  Rates include full breakfast.  For details call (239)395-0882 / (800)454-9898 or visit www.captivaislandinn.com.  

'Tween Waters Inn, Captiva Island

With award-winning sunsets over the Gulf, 'Tween Waters Inn offers the facilities and amenities to ensure a memorable wedding and honeymoon. The inn hosts small intimate ceremonies up to 150 people on site. In addition to providing various banquet facilities and settings for the ceremony and reception, the legendary inn has food and beverage packages tailored to suit almost any taste. Charming, spacious accommodations, from seaside cottages to
guest rooms and suites, all with water views, combine with miles of pristine beaches. In addition to the luxurious day spa with wedding services, the resort includes a marina for fishing, kayaking, shelling and dolphin watching. Three pools, tennis and a fitness center are available along with fine dining at the historic, sunset-view Old Captiva House restaurant. A wedding planner is available.  For more information and a list of wedding and honeymoon packages, call (866)893-3646 or visit www.tween-waters.com.

South Seas Island Resort, Captiva Island

At the tip of Captiva Island, South Seas Island Resort provides the backdrop for the perfect tropical island wedding. With the ultimate outdoor settings that include locations on the beach or a lawn ceremony beneath swaying palms, every moment is a beautiful one when it takes place here. With the stunning Gulf of Mexico as a backdrop, select from an elegant yacht harbor and marina, lawn areas, or the Captiva Ballroom for wedding locations.  Over two miles of quiet spots, beautiful beaches, and private banquet facilities, as well as excursion boats, create an unspoiled refuge with an intimate feel, worthy of an once-in-a-lifetime event.  A stunning sunset over the Gulf of Mexico will provide the picture-perfect ending to the special day.  A personal wedding consultant will assist with the planning process.  For information and wedding/ honeymoon packages, call (800)524-7601 or visit "weddings" at www.southseas.com.
 
Sanibel Harbour Resort & Spa, Fort Myers

Captivating island views, spectacular sunsets and a romantic setting in a tropical paradise all combine for the perfect wedding and honeymoon location at Sanibel Harbour Resort & Spa.  This 85-acre bayside resort, situated on a private peninsula overlooking Sanibel and Captiva islands, creates storybook weddings.

For the wedding ceremony, couples may choose a poolside terrace surrounded by lush foliage and fountains, a magnificent 100-foot private luxury yacht, an elegant ballroom or a secluded cove on the beach with swaying palms. Luxurious receptions for 10 to 800 people are created by the resort's award-winning chefs and catering staff.  An in-house pastry chef creates             customized wedding cakes for any theme. A favorite location is the Island Room which provides floor-to-ceiling views of the tropical setting. 

Sanibel Harbour Resort & Spa provides the perfect location for a honeymoon with sparkling Gulf waters, island views, romantic restaurants and an award-winning spa with more than 60 services for world-class pampering.   For out of town guests and the wedding party, arrangements may be made for services in the luxurious spa, as well as for golfing, kayaking and nature tours to nearby barrier islands. Ideal for a honeymoon, the resort's "Celebration Package"  includes a two-night/three-day stay in a water view guestroom, champagne and strawberries, breakfast for two each day, dinner for two one evening in the Tarpon House Restaurant or Courtside Steakhouse, valet parking, gratuities and exclusive guest benefits.  

Rates for the "Celebration Package" begin at $299 per person depending upon the time of year . The package is subject to availability. Rates are based on double occupancy. Rates may vary based on day of week and do not include room tax (currently at 11 percent).  For information call (800)767-7777 or visit www.sanibel-resort.com.

Hilton Garden Inn, Fort Myers

Centrally located in Fort Myers, the Hilton Garden Inn Fort Myers offers spacious  accommodations. Mini-Suites (upgrade) have garden-tub-for two and separate seating area.  A restaurant offers breakfast, lunch, dinner and evening room service, with outdoor dining and full bar services.  Enjoy the day poolside in a tropical setting and a relaxing soak in the heated
whirlpool. Facilities available for rehearsal dinner and other functions. 

Romance Package includes:
• Early check-in & pre-registration upon request
• In-room sparkling wine (where permitted by law) or cider upon arrival
• Access to hotel fitness center, pool and whirlpool
• Full breakfast for two in the restaurant
• On additional nights, buy one entre and get a second one of equal or
    lesser value free. (Choose from either lunch or dinner in the restaurant)
• Late check-out available upon request
For prices and additional information, call (239)790-3500 or visit www.fortmyers.stayhgi.com

Residence Inn by Marriott, Fort Myers

Conveniently located near I-75, Residence Inn by Marriott features 78 beautifully-appointed suites with living areas and full kitchens.  The property offers a complimentary breakfast buffet and evening socials Monday through Thursday with beer, wine and light snacks.  Enjoy outdoor pool and spa, as well as workout facility.  Free high speed Internet access is also available.  A romantic getaway package featuring two-night accommodations in a one-bedroom suite, dinner for two at a local restaurant, two tickets to Regal Cinemas, and a bottle of champagne.  Packages begin at $334.  Hot breakfast buffet included daily.  Valid for weekend stays only, based on availability, through Dec. 31.  For information call (239)936-0110 or visit www.marriott.com/rswri.

Pink Shell Beach Resort & Spa, Fort Myers Beach  

Located on Estero Island, the 12-acre Pink Shell Beach Resort & Spa features a white, sandy beach and perfect sunsets for weddings and receptions.  Destination wedding packages are available as well as spa packages for the bridal party.  For complete information and rates, 
call (888)222-7465 or visit www.pinkshell.com.

DiamondHead Beach Resort, Fort Myers Beach

The relaxing blue waters of the Gulf of Mexico and made-to-order sunsets over Fort Myers Beach set the perfect wedding scene at this full-service, all-suite resort.  DiamondHead has a number of picture-perfect spots for wedding parties with its 10,000 square feet of function space, including the outdoor terrace, popular for bridal couples as it offers breathtaking views overlooking the Gulf.  Beachside services are also an option with receptions from 10 - 400 guests.  For package and rate information call (888)7657654 or go to www.diamondheadfl.com.

Lovers Key Beach Club & Resort, Fort Myers Beach

Tropical breezes, beautiful scenery, pristine gulf water and abundant wildlife are part of the ambiance of this dream destination. Lovers Key Beach Club & Resort features luxuriously appointed one-bedroom suites with a king-sized bed and private bathroom, most of which have spa baths.  The living room has a queen-size sofa sleeper, fully-equipped kitchens with  refrigerator, dishwasher, microwave oven, range, and coffee maker.  Each suite has two televisions with Internet access, pay-per-view movies and games.  Located adjacent to the resort is Lovers Key State Park with secluded beaches, nature trails, canoe and kayak rentals.            

Lovers Key Beach Club & Resort specializes in small weddings with full-service packages.  Wedding ceremonies can be planned in various locations including the patio area overlooking the bay where the dolphins frolic, a beach ceremony at Lovers Key State Park or for those who love the water, a ceremony on a boat.  An onsite wedding planner is dedicated to helping couples plan their whole day from flowers to cake and more.  For information call (877)798-4879 or visit www.LoversKey.com.                                                                              

Best Western Beach Resort, Fort Myers Beach 

A popular wedding location because of it tropical landscaping and beautiful sunsets, the Best Western Beach Resort features direct beachfront rooms with private balconies.  For packages and information call (239)463-6000 / (800)336-4045 or visit www.bwbeachresort.com.

Hyatt Regency Coconut Point Resort and Spa, Bonita Springs

The Hyatt Regency Coconut Point Resort and Spa presents a tropical paradise surrounded by lavish gardens, sparkling water and the green golf course fairways.  The resort also features an Asian-inspired spa, access to a secluded beach, three pools, six restaurants and lounges.  With impeccable service and attention to detail, the resort provides locations including the wedding pavilion, the pool, courtyards, the terrace, and the beach.  Dream weddings are planned by an on-site wedding coordinator who handles everything from start to finish.  For the ceremony, couples may choose from two magnificent ballrooms as well as poolside, beachside or lakeside settings.  For packages and information call (239)444-1234 or (800)233-1234 or visit www.coconutpoint.hyatt.com.

Fairy-tale getaway to exclusive Useppa Island

Escape to Useppa Island for a historic retreat at the 100-year-old Collier Inn.  Catering to honeymooners, the Centennial Suite is filled with period antiques, a jacuzzi tub and waterfront views from a large deck overlook the sparkling bay.  Fishing, kayaking, great dining and beachcombing are the main activities in this unforgettable setting.  For information on wedding accommodations and staying at the Collier Inn, call (239)283-1061 or (888)735-6335 or visit www.useppa.com.

Getting married in paradise

Getting married in Florida is easy.  Visit the Office of the Clerk of the Circuit Court in any Florida county to apply for a marriage license. Both parties must have valid photo identification, such as a driver's license, and a Social Security number. International visitors who wish to tie the knot in Florida must have a valid passport and a translator, if necessary, who has a valid U.S. driver's license. No blood tests are required for a marriage license, and there is no waiting period unless you are already a Florida resident -- then you must wait three days. Once you have the license, you can get married at any time within the next 60 days.

For more information on planning a wedding, honeymoon or a romantic getaway in paradise, call the Lee County Visitor & Convention Bureau at (888)231-6933 or access www.fortmyers-sanibel.com. 

EDITOR'S NOTE: The Beaches of Fort Myers & Sanibel in southwest Florida includes: Sanibel & Captiva islands, Fort Myers Beach, Fort Myers, Bonita Springs, Estero, Cape Coral, Pine Island, Boca Grande & Outer islands, North Fort Myers, Lehigh Acres. Wedding- and romantic-themed images available upon request.

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