Spring
Weather: There's always a chance of rain, but even if the heavens open up, don't worry -- the showers don't last long. Daytime highs reach between 70 and 80 degrees while nighttime lows drop only to the 60s. March through May are some of the best months for a beach wedding.
Best time of day to take photos: Avoiding the high, bright sun, the prime time for photos (in the late-afternoon light) is between 3 and 6 p.m. That's the biggest window compared to other seasons!
Look out for: Tourists -- March is a big time for spring breakers, traveling boat shows and Northern snowbirds. So if you were hoping to hold part of your celebration at a young hot spot, such as the Elbo Room, you may need to reconsider. Book your hotel room blocks, rehearsal dinner spot and brunch venue as early as possible.
Must-have photos: Most brides hope for a sunny, gorgeous day, but a cloud-filled sky can make everything (including you!) look more beautiful -- we promise. Clouds this time of year come in unique shapes, which look great when photographed. They also help filter the light, making the final photo look unique and elegant. Get wide shots standing under a funky cloud. Then take notes on what you think it looks like.
Summer
Weather: Hot, hot, humid, wet and more hot. Average temperatures are in the 80- to 90-degree range and the moisture in the air will make it feel even hotter. Expect brief afternoon thunderstorms on a daily basis.
Best time of day to take photos:The sun sets at 7:30 or 8 p.m. so aim to do photos by 6 or 6:30 p.m., when the natural light is at its best.
Look out for: The days are hot and humid, which tends to make faces puffy and complexions red. Plus, squinting is a natural reaction to the high sun but not so pretty in photographs. At night, mosquitoes and no-see-ums come out to play -- and bite you and your guests.
Must-have photos: The best summer shots are captured off the beach. Head for grassy areas in parks with lots of trees. The shade will help keep squinting and sweating to a minimum, which you and your blazer-wearing groom will appreciate.
Fall
Weather: Rainy season is ending, humidity starts to subside and the temperatures begin to cool off in mid to late October. But beware of hurricanes: Tropical cyclone occurrences often peak in South Florida during early fall.
Best time of day to take photos: The clocks get set back in October so it gets darker earlier. Plan your shoot around 4 to 4:30 p.m., and take advantage of the soft, late afternoon sun.
Look out for: Gusts of wind -- Natural weather disasters aside, East Coast beaches still tend to get very windy so plan accordingly when it comes to hairstyles for you and your bridesmaids. Opt for something up (with lots of hairspray!), and leave the loose, flowing curls for the rehearsal dinner -- or have someone on standby for touch ups during the shoot and right before you walk down the aisle.
Must-have photos: The summer sky in Florida can be milky and pale, but in the fall it takes on a crisp, rich shade of blue. Ask for shots to be framed with the dreamy skyline above.
Winter
Weather: This region of Florida can actually get chilly. Cold fronts can hit the city (and last for a few days!), causing highs to max out in the mid '60s. Normal temperatures, however, are a good 10 degrees warmer. Still, consider putting out a basket of pashminas for your female guests. Remember, whether your wedding is an indoor or outdoor affair, your guests' comfort takes priority.
Best time of day to take photos: Like in the summer, it's important to pay attention to the time the sun sets. The early evening sun offers ideal natural light, so plan to head out around 5 to 5:30 p.m.
Look out for: Other weddings -- Late October marks the beginning of wedding season in Fort Lauderdale. Pick your date and start planning early. Book vendors and hotel rooms before another bride can beat you to it.
Must-have photos: You in your gown bundled in a jacket offers a nice contrast between wedding day dressy and every day casual. If there's time, head into town for a photo-op with a palm tree decked out with Christmas lights.
Special thanks to Janine Stone of Janine Stone Photography, South Florida, and Jonathan Scott of JSP Studio, Boca Raton
-- Lisa Freedman