5 Rules for the Wedding of your dreams - If Florida is Your Destination
What do you see when you close your eyes and picture your special day? Are you barefoot on the beach? Holding hands under an old oak tree in a historic courtyard? Saying "I do" as the sun sets over the water?
Florida is a dream wedding destination — and for good reason. From coastal beauty to timeless charm, this state invites couples to create weddings as unforgettable as their love stories. But before you pack your bags or book your venue, there are a few important rules you need to know.
1. You Can Get Your Marriage License in Any Florida County
You don’t need to apply for your marriage license in the same county where your ceremony will take place. All Florida-issued marriage licenses are valid statewide. So if your wedding is in Siesta Key but you're staying in Orlando or Jacksonville — no problem.
Just be sure to bring valid ID, check for current hours and requirements, and allow time for the license to be issued.
2. Out-of-State Couples Can Marry Right Away — Florida Residents Must Wait
Florida makes destination weddings easy! Couples visiting from out of state can marry the same day they receive their license. Florida residents, however, must wait three days unless they complete a state-approved premarital course. That’s a detail many locals miss when planning their timeline.
3. No Witnesses Required
Unlike many other states, Florida does not require witnesses to sign your marriage license. This is especially helpful for couples planning elopements or intimate weddings — no need to track down last-minute guests to make it official.
4. Florida Weather Is Beautiful — and Unpredictable
While Florida is famous for sunshine, it also comes with sudden rain showers, high humidity, and hurricane season. It’s important to be strategic when choosing your wedding date and to always have a backup plan.
The best months for weddings in Florida are November through April — when temperatures are mild, humidity is low, and rainfall is limited (source: Jaegerhaus Photography). January through March are especially popular for destination weddings thanks to crisp, clear skies and lower crowds.
Hurricane season runs from June 1 through November 30 (source: NOAA), with the highest risk between August and October. Many couples still wed during these months — but it’s essential to have a solid Plan B in place.
5. Choose an Officiant Who Gets You
In Florida, weddings can be officiated by notaries public or ordained ministers — which means you have more freedom to choose someone who truly reflects your values and style.
Notary Near Me Florida offers professional, heartfelt ceremonies that are fully personalized — whether your vision is elegant, spiritual, romantic, joyful, or all of the above. From simple elopements to full destination celebrations, we work with you to create a wedding experience that reflects your love story.
We’re legally authorized to officiate weddings anywhere in Florida and would be honored to be part of your big day.
The wedding of your dreams starts with knowing the rules — and choosing a team that supports your vision. With the right preparation, the right officiant, and the right season, your Florida wedding can be more than a beautiful day… ✨ It can be the joyful beginning of your Forever. That’s what we call a Joy for a Lifetime.
