We are hopeful that Sarasota in January will offer most of our guests a break from the winter cold. The average temperatures in January are 71 high/52 low. Most hotels have heated pools. And we will have heat lamps at the outdoor events if the weather requires it.
Yes, we will have trolleys to take our guests from The Ritz-Carlton to the Beach Club for the wedding ceremony, the cocktail hour, and dinner to follow on the Sunset Terrace. The trolleys will then bring everyone back to the hotel for dancing and dessert in the Ca' d'Zan room. Note that parking for private cars is not available at the Beach Club.
We don't think a car rental is necessary. If you are staying in downtown Sarasota, you will be close enough to walk to the hotel or a short Uber/Lift ride away. Check with your hotel to see what local shuttle service they offer. Like many other places, there are fewer Uber and Lyft drivers post-pandemic in Sarasota, so wait times are longer than expected.