What do you get when you combine one of the world’s most iconic hotel names with the vibrant area of South Beach, Florida? As any visitor will attest, the result is a luxurious property with an idyllic oceanfront location. Weddings at The Ritz-Carlton, South Beach can be as elegant as they are effortless, and as relaxing as they are refined. We asked the team for more details when it comes to hosting a dream wedding celebration at this gorgeous destination.
GO: If you had to describe The Ritz-Carlton, South Beach in three words, what would they be?
TRCSB: Gracious, sophisticated, glamourous.
GO: How far in advance does a couple need to reserve a date for weddings at The Ritz-Carlton, South Beach?
TRCSB: Regardless of a couple’s timeline, we are always able to curate a beautiful, personalized wedding. Whether it is two weeks, two months or two years ahead of their special day, all couples receive the same unparalleled Ritz-Carlton service and attention to detail.
GO: Are onsite wedding planners available for the wedding process?
TRCSB: We have a full team of experts available to ensure that the details of the wedding are executed flawlessly, including our events manager and our culinary team.
Many of our couples choose to work with a wedding planner to help orchestrate the logistics of the entire celebration. We have cultivated relationships with many of the most experienced luxury wedding planners in Miami and work closely to ensure that every part of the day reflects the couples’ vision.
GO: Are accommodations and buyouts available? What is the capacity limit?
TRCSB: The Ritz-Carlton, South Beach completed a top-to-bottom reimagination in January 2020. All 376 guest rooms and suites feature meticulous design that celebrates the city and its culture. I always recommend our Lanai Suites, which are perfectly spacious for entertaining and feature a large terrace overlooking the ocean. For those seeking a private event, hotel buyouts are available upon request, and capacities vary depending on the spaces chosen for the wedding festivities.
GO: What spaces are available for weddings at The Ritz-Carlton, South Beach?
TRCSB: We are fortunate to have a wonderful mix of indoor and outdoor spaces, each of which honors and celebrates our beautiful city in its own unique way. My ideal wedding would begin with a ceremony at Starr Bar overlooking the Atlantic Ocean, transition to a reception at DiLido Beach Club, our lush beach level lounge adorned with palm trees and tropical plants, and end with dinner and dancing in The Ritz-Carlton Ballroom, highlighting the glamour of South Beach and the rich history of our building.
GO: What are some of the amenities, incentives and activities The Ritz-Carlton, South Beach offers a couple?
TRCSB: First and foremost, our resort offers a true experience in the history and glamour of Miami. The historic building was designed by prolific Miami architect Morris Lapidus, and after a full renovation in 2020, upholds the storied past of the space with the conveniences of a modern luxury hotel. We also offer several unique experiences that celebrate our city. For example, at Lapidus Bar, we serve our own unique blend of Havana Club Rum and master mixologists create bespoke cocktails for couples based on their tastes. We’ve partnered with local ice cream company Aubi & Ramsa to create our own 21+ ice cream blend, ‘The South Beach,’ featuring our rum blend. It is so unique to our hotel, absolutely delicious on its own, or can be used to create unique cocktails. The Ritz-Carlton Spa offer holistic journeys that encourage rest and relaxation. Couples’ suites are ideal for pre or post-wedding relaxation.
And finally, I would be remiss if I didn’t mention Miami itself. Put simply, it is just an incredible city, rivaling any other with our arts, culture and vibrancy. We have luxury shopping, world class museums and public art, historical sites, a vibrant culinary scene and of course the wonderful weather and beautiful beaches. It is truly a wonderful place for a wedding because there is something for every guest.
GO: Food is such an important element at a wedding. Tell us about your menu customization.
TRCSB: Through our culinary offerings and really throughout the resort experience, we offer our couples an authentic taste of Miami’s unique culture. As the saying goes, “Miami is a melting pot in which none of the stones melt. They rattle around.” We love to celebrate our unique location in the world through food and beverage that honors the influences that make Miami, Miami. Executive Chef Anthony Le Pape and his experienced team are involved from the very beginning of the planning process. Chef Le Pape’s enthusiasm for learning the preferences of the couple translates into a unique menu designed specifically with them in mind.
GO: Service is imperative in the wedding industry. What does The Ritz-Carlton, South Beach offer couples and their guests that set you apart?
TRCSB: The service provided by the Ladies and Gentlemen of The Ritz-Carlton – the genuine care and comfort they show – is truly legendary and known the world over. Nowhere in our hotel is our service on display more than it is in The Ritz-Carlton Club, South Beach’s only VIP lounge experience. The Ritz-Carlton Club Level is truly a ‘hotel within a hotel,’ offering a private oceanfront lounge, dedicated concierge, bespoke amenities and five complimentary food and beverage presentations throughout the day.
