What does Seaside Setups actually do? Do you provide the décor or just set it up?

A: We specialize in the setup and breakdown of decor that you provide. That means we don’t stock our own rental items – instead, we take all the wonderful decorations you’ve gathered (DIY projects, purchased items, rentals from other companies, etc.) and we professionally set them up at your venue. We’ll follow your vision to a T – whether you have a mock-up, a Pinterest board, or a detailed list, we make sure every piece is placed perfectly. After the event, we’ll carefully pack everything back up for you. (In short: you bring the decor, we bring the muscle and know-how!) If you do need help sourcing certain items, we’re happy to recommend local rental companies, but our core service is executing your decor plan.

Will you coordinate with our planner or venue?

Absolutely. We often work side-by-side with wedding planners, day-of coordinators, and venue managers. Our goal is to be a seamless part of your vendor team. Prior to the wedding, we’re happy to connect with your planner or venue to understand the day’s timeline, layout, and any venue rules (for example, some venues have specific setup times or restrictions – we’re used to that). On the day, we’ll arrive on schedule (usually when the venue opens for setup) and coordinate on things like where to put items, timing of setup completion, and any flips between ceremony and reception. If you don’t have a planner, no worries – we’re experienced in managing the decor timeline ourselves and will ensure everything is done on time for your guests’ arrival.

How far in advance should we book your services?

As soon as you know you’ll need us! We serve the entire Upper Keys and handle a limited number of events per day (we never overbook, so we can give full attention to your wedding). Popular dates in the Keys (like spring and fall weekends) can book up 6–12 months in advance. If your wedding is on a weekday or in the off-season, we might have availability closer in. Ideally, reach out at least 3-6 months before your wedding to secure your date. That said, if your wedding is sooner, please check with us – if we’re free, we’d be happy to jump in and help.

Can you help design or plan how things should look?

Our primary role is the “execution” – physically setting up your decor per your plan. However, with our experience, we’re always happy to offer tips or minor design suggestions if asked. For example, if you’re unsure how something will hold up outdoors (like candles in the wind), we can recommend solutions from past weddings. We can also do a venue walkthrough with you (or virtually via photos) beforehand to plan the layout. But we’re not full-service wedding designers or planners – we won’t, for instance, create a design scheme from scratch or provide floral design (those are typically done by planners or florists). Think of us as your expert “stage crew” – you set the vision, and we’ll set the stage!

What if the weather is bad or something unexpected happens?

We always have a plan (or three!) in our back pocket. The Florida Keys are beautiful, but we know weather can surprise us. If rain is in the forecast or winds pick up, we’ll work with your venue or planner on a backup setup plan – for example, moving the ceremony under a shelter or adjusting outdoor decor so it’s secure. We come prepared with emergency supplies (like tarps, towels to dry things, extra zip ties, etc.). Similarly, if an unexpected issue arises (say, more tables needed last-minute, or a décor piece breaks), our experience kicks in: we’ll improvise a solution or fix it if possible. Our whole mission is for you not to be bothered with these things on your day. Rest assured, we’ll handle curveballs calmly and competently – and keep you informed as needed.

Are you insured?

We customize teardown to your event’s needs. Typically, we’ll discuss the timeline in advance – some couples want everything removed the same night, others prefer next-morning retrieval (depending on venue rules). We’re willing to come back late at night when the reception ends to pack up decor, so you don’t have to worry about a thing as you head off to after-parties or rest. We carefully pack items into whatever containers you provide or we can bring extra bins. Everything will be organized and placed in a pre-designated spot (or loaded into a vehicle you arrange) so it’s ready to go. If the venue allows overnight leave and next-day pickup, we can also return the next morning to strike the decor. We’ll iron out these details in advance so it’s all taken care of.