Couples at The Cloister at Sea Island fall under a spell of semitropical enchantment from the moment of arrival. The romance begins with the location on a five-mile beach off the coast of Georgia. Ocean tides, salt marshes and sunsets over the Black Banks River add to the magic of historic architecture and gardens designed in 1928 by the legendary Addison Mizner. President Calvin Coolidge planted the lawn’s first oak, and its spreading boughs link arms with oaks planted by five other presidents. For 80 years, newlyweds have begun their lives together at the resort and returned with generations in tow.

With a nature program, horseback riding on the beach, brand new spa, nearby golf and tons of family activities, wedding guests inevitably share extraordinary moments. Their choice of 175 accommodations ranges from royally appointed riverside suites, replete with butler service, to casually elegant rooms at the beach.

The resort’s many wedding venues include the Cloister Chapel, the Beach Club, a ballroom, gardens and lawns, or couples can say “I do” directly on the sand. Custom details distinguish everything from the wedding flowers and white-glove service to the linens, food, drink, wedding cake and entertainment.