Couples looking to say “I do” in Florida and who want to avoid the crowds of wedding hotspots like Miami or Key West, should consider Fort Lauderdale. Known for its beaches and boating canals, it’s 40 minutes north of Miami on Florida’s southeastern coast. Casually chic couples who want oceanfront accommodations, lush public gardens and boutique shopping will feel right at home here. When it comes to choosing your destination wedding venue, the Pelican Grand Beach Resort will more than meet your expectations.

You and your guests will instantly feel at home after entering the lobby with its sweeping veranda, complete with rocking chairs and ocean views. The Pelican Grand Beach Resort’s style was inspired by old Florida grandeur, but with a dusting of coastal chic. Think intricately paneled ceilings in the common areas and rooms with light and airy décor. After completing a renovation in 2016, the 156 rooms at the Pelican Grand feature pale color palettes and contemporary furnishings. Treat yourself and book the Sky Suite, the hotel’s 12th floor penthouse. Nothing says VIP quite like a private elevator, massive marble master bath and 1,100 square-foot terrace with an outdoor shower and soaking tub.

This boutique hotel is known for weddings of up to 100 people. They have recently expanded their event area to a whopping 10,000 square-feet of sun-drenched space. Whether you opt for a ceremony on the sand or in one of Pelican Grand’s two ballrooms, you’re guaranteed a view to remember. Both the Atlantic Ballroom on the first floor and the Ocean View Ballroom on the 11th floor offer a neutral backdrop for your event and grand, private terraces to-boot. The Ocean View Ballroom is especially spectacular with its floor-to-ceiling windows with sights as far south as Miami.

Beyond treating yourself and your wedding guests to swanky accommodations, you won’t go hungry at the Pelican Grand Beach Resort. In addition to its revamped rooms and event space, the dining options also underwent an overhaul. A sunset dinner and Sunday brunch at OCEAN2000 restaurant are a must with a seafood-centric menu and spectacular service.

While Fort Lauderdale might not seem an obvious choice for your destination “I do’s,” it’s well worth considering for a laid-back, coastal wedding.

This article first appeared in Destination I Do’s Spring/Summer 2017 issue. You can order a copy here.