A Florida Dream Wedding — Avoid These 5 Common Pitfalls
Planning a wedding in Florida? It’s one of the most romantic places in the world to say “I do.” I may be a bit biased—I live in Florida—but with our sunshine, palm trees, and coastal charm, it’s hard to beat.
Still, as dreamy as it can be, there are a few Florida-specific pitfalls that could turn your perfect day into a paperwork problem—or worse.
Let’s make sure your Florida wedding is the wedding you always dreamed of—not a nightmare that haunts you for years to come.
The Reality Behind the Romance
Just this week, I got a call from a bride who wanted to get married—simply, quietly, and without much fanfare. From our conversation, it sounded like this may not have been her first marriage. She wasn't looking for a ceremony with all the trimmings. She just needed it to be legal.
After we spoke, we agreed the courthouse was the most cost-effective option for her. And sometimes, it really is.
But for couples who want something just as simple, yet more intimate and personal, a Sign and Go ceremony may be the perfect solution. I’ll explain more below—but first, here are five common pitfalls Florida couples can easily avoid with a little planning and the right guidance.
1. Misunderstanding Florida’s Marriage License Rules
Here’s what you need to know:
- You must get your license from a Florida Clerk of Court, but it’s valid in any county once issued.
- Out-of-state residents can marry the same day the license is issued.
- Florida residents must wait 3 days unless they complete a state-approved premarital course.
Where to get a license: Visit any Florida Clerk of Court office. In Hillsborough County (Tampa area), for example, couples can apply online or in person.
Typical cost: $86
Discount for premarital course completion: Reduces fee to around $61
Where to find approved courses: Visit MyFloridaCounty.com or your county Clerk's website.
Some providers offer online courses for $15–$30.
Valid IDs include: A current driver’s license, a passport, military ID, or a state-issued photo ID card.
2. Assuming the Weather Will Cooperate
Florida is famous for sunshine—but we’re also the lightning capital of the U.S. and home to hurricane season, which runs June 1 through November 30. The most active months are August to October.
Even outside of hurricane season, Florida can surprise you with pop-up showers and intense humidity. That dreamy beach wedding could become a soggy mess without a solid Plan B.
Ask the venue about their weather policy: Will your deposit be refunded or rescheduled if it rains? What’s the backup plan for lightning or heat advisories?
Best months for outdoor weddings in Florida: November through April—when temps are milder and the skies are clearer.
3. Skipping the Permit Process for Public Venues
Want to get married in a park, garden, or on the beach? You may need a permit, even for small ceremonies.
Who to contact: Start with the city or county parks and recreation department where the site is located.
How far in advance to apply: At least 30–60 days ahead is recommended—especially during peak wedding seasons.
Is there a fee? Yes, often there is. Permit costs range from $25 to $300+ depending on the location and guest count.
Avoid the heartbreak of being asked to leave a public space mid-ceremony by doing your homework upfront.
4. Choosing the Wrong Officiant
Your officiant does more than say a few words—they set the tone for your entire ceremony and ensure it’s legally binding.
In Florida, weddings can be performed by a notary public or an ordained minister. But not all officiants are created equal.
Choose someone who is:
- Experienced with Florida marriage laws
- Professional and dependable
- Aligned with your values and your vision
Notary Near Me Florida brings all of the above—with a personal touch and deep respect for your unique story. Whether you’re planning an intimate elopement or a custom spiritual ceremony, I’d be honored to help you say “I do.”
5. Forgetting What the Law Requires to Make It Legal
A pretty location and a photographer are wonderful—but to make your marriage official in Florida, your ceremony must include two things:
- A verbal statement of intent (like “I do” or “Yes, I will”)
- A pronouncement by the officiant (“I now pronounce you husband and wife”)
Skip either one, and the marriage may not be legally valid—no matter how beautiful the setting.
Is a Sign and Go Ceremony Right for You?
If you're not interested in a big ceremony, a Sign and Go may be just what you need.
This option is ideal for couples who:
- Want to be legally married—without a full ceremony
- Prefer a quick and simple process
- Need to marry before a future celebration or trip
- Want to avoid courthouse delays or scheduling
You provide the marriage license, and Notary Near Me Florida will handle the rest—including the required verbal statement and legal pronouncement. And yes, you can say “I do” in your living room, a quiet park, a scenic overlook, or just about anywhere your love feels at home. Simple. Intimate. Legal.
📱 Call or text 813-239-4117 to schedule your Sign and Go.
Make Your Florida Dream Wedding a Reality
With the right guidance, your wedding can be joyful, stress-free, and everything you hoped it would be.
Avoiding these five pitfalls is the first step toward making your dream wedding a reality—whether you're planning a grand celebration or keeping it short and sweet.
✨ Let’s make your wedding day the joyful beginning of your Forever.
That’s what we call a Joy for a Lifetime.
Whether you're envisioning a simple license signing, an intimate elopement, or a fully personalized ceremony with spiritual or romantic elements, Notary Near Me Florida is here to make it legal—and the wedding of your dreams. I offer a full range of officiant services designed to reflect your values, your story, and your style.
📱 Call or text 813-239-4117 to explore your options or schedule a consultation.
