A Complete Guide to Eloping in Florida
Hello lovely people! If you are getting eloped in Florida and have questions about any part of this process … you are in the right place! In this guide I will go through everything that you would need to know to say “I do” in the state of Florida.
STEPS TO GET YOUR FLORIDA MARRIAGE LICENSE
Step 01: Figure out what county your marriage ceremony will be taking place in
Once you and your fiancé decide where you want your ceremony to take place, look through that county auditor office’s website to look over their rules, specific steps, and everything you will need to know! Here is a list of county offices in the state of Florida.
Step 02: Fill out the marriage application
You can either fill this out in person at the county’s clerk of court office, and/or fill out the pre-application online to make your visit to the office quicker. Please note, you cannot finish the application process online. In order to get your marriage license approved you must finish your application at the county’s clerk of court office. For Florida residents, there is a three day waiting period between receiving the license and being allowed to perform the ceremony (unless you participate in the pre-marital course). For out of state and international couples, you may perform the ceremony on the same day that you get your marriage license (although I would recommend going in to get it at least a day before your planned ceremony date)!
Please refer to your specific county’s website to ensure that you complete their required steps (as certain things differ by county).
Step 03: Wait the 3-day waiting period or perform your ceremony!
Florida residents must wait 3 (or more) days prior to applying and being administered their marriage license to perform the ceremony, but out-of-state and international couples are allowed to perform their marriage the same day as they apply. Please keep in mind that this license is only valid for 60 days following the application, so don’t get it too early!
Step 04: Return the Certificate of Marriage to the County Clerks Office
After saying “I do” the officiant will complete the Certificate of Marriage and will need to return the entire document to the issuing Clerk’s office within 10 days after the date of the marriage ceremony.
PLANNING YOUR ELOPEMENT
When to Plan Your Florida Elopement
If you’re wondering when the best time to elope in Florida is, you’re in the right place.
The short and sweet version: December through March is the dream. The weather is mild, the skies are clear, and the threat of a hurricane is not so daunting. The downside is that it’s also the busiest time of year with tourists filling the beaches, and venues tend to booking out a year or more in advance.
However, October, November, and April (the “shoulder months”) are also amazing if you don’t mind a bit more warmth and the possibility of an afternoon sprinkle. These months have the befit of bringing fewer crowds, more availability, and quieter beaches which is definitely perfect if you’re dreaming of something relaxed, adventurous, or more private.
On my “not recommended” list is May through September. The weather is hot, humid, and full of unpredictable afternoon storms (and the occasional hurricane threat). Not to mention the BUGS. Buttttt if you’re all about warm ocean water and cannot give up the June wedding dream, sunrise elopements this time of year can be incredible. I’ll happily wake up before the sun is up to catch a beautiful Florida sunrise.
The Best Time of Day to Elope
Light changes everything from your photos to your mood to the experience of the elopement.
The most beautiful lighting happens twice a day: early morning or late afternoon/ evening, when the sun is low and soft.
On Florida’s East Coast, the mornings are unbeatable. You’ll catch the sunrise over the Atlantic which creates soft pastels and creates a sense of peace before the world wakes up. The sunset, although it doesn’t compare to the Gulf Coast, still paints the sky in beautiful dark blues and purples!
On the Gulf Coast, sunsets are hard to beat, painting everything in golden light… but mornings can be just as dreamy with pink and light blue skies!
If you’re eloping in a public spot like a beach or park, mornings will definitely be your best friend. Fewer people, fewer distractions, and a more intimate vibe. The sunset, unfortunately, brings out the crowds (and parking chaos).
If you’re renting a venue, daytime or weekday rates are often lower since most couples book evenings or weekends… another win for elopements!
Where to Elope in Florida
The hardest part often of any elopement planning is choosing where. Florida has so many options, from white sand beaches to tropical gardens and hidden springs. The options may seem endless, but in the meantime here is an overview to get your wheels turning:
The Beach: A classic, and always stunning. Some public beaches don’t require permits for very small ceremonies. But if you’re setting up decor or inviting more people, you’ll likely need a city or county permit. Just two great options are Anna Maria Island and Bahia Honda State Park.
An Airbnb or Private Rental: Perfect for a cozy, private experience. Just make sure your host is okay with a ceremony and knows your guest count!
Wedding Venues: More and more venues across Florida are offering weekday or daytime elopement packages! It’s a great option if you want a beautiful ceremony space without all the fuss of a traditional wedding. Villa Tosacana in Miami is just one example of a venue where you can elope!
Inland Florida: Think lush state parks, crystal blue springs, rivers, and hiking trails. Some locations offer small, inexpensive reservations if you want total privacy. Others you can just walk into and say your vows surrounded by nature. Some examples include Ocala National forest/ Silver Springs, Ichetucknee Springs, and Blackwater River State Forest.
ELOPEMENT PHOTOGRAPHY
Hiring a photographer to capture this important day is no easy task! You will need to consider things like style, budget, travel distance, and package options when you are shopping for a photographer.
Prices for elopement photographer can vary a lot. Some elopement photographers start around $500, but you would most likely only be getting an hour of coverage during and shortly after the ceremony, with little to no planning help.
Higher-end photographers can be upwards of $3,000-$4,000 and some.
My name is Sofia modica, and I am a St. Petersburg FL based elopement photographer who offers elopement packages starting at $900 for up to 2 hours of coverage. I would also love to create a custom package based on your vision, location, and must-haves for your big day! My packages are meant to strike a balace between affordability and high quality results!
My goal is to tell your story as authentically as possible and help create a day that is perfect for you !
FLORIDA MARRIAGE FAQs
How do we get a marriage license in Florida?
You can apply for a marriage license at any county clerk’s office in Florida and it doesn’t have to be the same county you’re getting married in. Most offices allow walk-ins or online appointments.
How much does a marriage license cost in Florida?
Marriage licenses cost $93.50 but can be reduced by up to $32.50 if Florida residents complete a licensed Florida pre-marital course.
Do we need to be Florida residents to get married there?
No! Out-of-state and international couples can legally marry in Florida with the same license.
Is there a waiting period?
Florida residents have a 3-day waiting period unless they complete a premarital course. Out-of-state and international couples have no waiting period and can marry the same day they get their license.
How long is the marriage license valid for?
The license is valid for 60 days from the date it’s issued.
Can we apply for the license online?
You may start your application process online but the application must be finished in person at the county clerk office. The marriage license will be administered the same day you apply in person – but keep in mind that Florida residents have a 3-day waiting period before they can perform the ceremony.
Do we need an officiant or witnesses?
Yes, you’ll need an officiant who is authorized to perform marriages in Florida. Witnesses aren’t required by law, but it’s common to have one or two sign for sentimental reasons.
Can a friend or family member officiate our elopement?
Yes! They can get ordained online through a ministry, which is recognized in Florida. As an elopement photographer, I am legally ordained so I can perform ceremonies for my couples if they choose to add that!
Do we need a permit to elope on the beach or in a park?
Some public beaches and state parks do require a permit, especially if you’re setting up décor, arches, or any large equipment. Each county or park has its own rules so be sure to check out the website of wherever you are planning to have your ceremony. As part of my packages for photography, I take care of the legal organizing part!
What are the best places to elope in Florida?
Popular spots include St. Pete Beach, the Florida Keys, Bok Tower Gardens, Vizcaya Museum, Villa Toscan and state parks like Honeymoon Island or Bahia Honda. Check below for a detailed list of some of my personal recommendations!
Can we elope at sunrise or sunset?
Yes! Florida’s beaches are stunning at both times. Sunrise tends to be quieter and more private, while sunset brings warm, golden light. In Florida, you can experience the full beauty of a sunset on the Gulf Coast and the sunrise on the East (Atlantic) Coast!
How far in advance should we plan our elopement?
Even a simple elopement benefits from a few weeks or months of planning, especially if you’re booking a photographer, officiant, and travel accommodations. Inquire with me if you are curious about how to make your timeline work!
What should we wear for a Florida elopement?
Think lightweight, breathable fabrics (it can be hot and humid!) and comfortable shoes or barefoot if you’re on the sand.
What’s the best time of year to elope in Florida?
Fall through spring (October–April) usually has the most pleasant weather and fewer summer storms. These months tend to give the best chance of having the perfect sunny day!
What happens if it rains?
Florida weather can change quickly and having a backup indoor or covered spot is always smart. Alternatively, leaning into the rain can lead to some gorgeous, cinematic photos.
Is Florida a good spot for destination elopements?
Absolutely. With beaches, tropical gardens, and magical moss draped forests, Florida has so much diversity to offer for your elopement day (and maybe even your honeymoon)!
What airports are best for flying in?
That depends on your final destination, but Tampa, Orlando, Miami, or Key West are common choices depending on where you’re eloping.
BOOKING YOUR ELOPEMENT
Elopements are not the same as traditional weddings in many ways, but one of the main benefits is that the planning and booking process is so much easier! Unless you are booking a venue or want catering of some sort, the only thing you will need to worry about booking is your officiant, and of course, your photographer!
Thankfully, I am an elopement photographer in Southwest Florida that would LOVE to help you plan and capture your perfect day! I am also legally ordained and can officiate the ceremony if you wish to have one more thing off your plate!
You can read more about weddings and elopements I have had the pleasure to be a part of here, if you are interested.
Or, feel free to jump straight to my inquiry page so that we can get talking about building your dream elopement!!
