To get married in Florida, you need an officiant and a marriage license.

The marriage license will need to be obtained from any County Clerk of Court's office in Florida. Here are the key requirements:

Marriage License Application

• Appear in Person: Both applicants must apply together in person at a Clerk of Court's office in any county in Florida.
  

• Alternative option for Out-of-State residents: You may choose to use a third-party “Marriage by Mail” service to have the marriage license application sent to you. If you select this option, you must complete and have the application notarized in your home state, then you must remember to bring the notarized document with you when you travel to Florida. A ceremony will not be legally binding if you do not have your marriage license with you. Please be aware that this process may require additional time, extra fees, and requires you to share personal information with a third-party provider.

• Identification: Each person must present a valid, non-expired, government-issued photo ID (Driver's license from any state, passport, U.S. military ID, or State ID card).
  

• Social Security Number: U.S. citizens must provide their Social Security number (you don't need to bring the card, just the number). Non-U.S. citizens may provide an Alien Registration Card or passport number if they don't have a Social Security number.
  

• Previous Marriages: If either party has been married before, you must provide the exact date (month, day, and year) and manner in which the last marriage ended (divorce, death, or annulment). You do not need to provide copies of divorce decrees or death certificates.
  

• Family Law Handbook: Both parties must read the Florida Family Law Handbook and sign an affidavit stating they have done so. You will also be required to swear under oath that all information provided is true and correct to the best of your knowledge.
  

• Age: Both parties must be at least 18 years old. (There are very specific and limited exceptions for 17-year-olds.)
  

• Residency: You do not need to be a resident of Florida to apply.
  

Fees and Waiting Period

• Fee: The standard fee for a marriage license is approximately $86.00 (this can vary slightly by county).
  

• Reduced Fee: The fee is reduced to about $61.00 for couples who provide proof of completing a registered four-hour premarital preparation course.
  

• Waiting Period: There is a (consecutive) three-day waiting period (the ceremony may occur on the fourth day) between the time the license is issued and when the ceremony can take place if one or both parties are Florida residents. This waiting period is waived if:
  

  1. Both applicants are non-Florida residents.
     

  2. The couple provides a certificate of completion for a registered premarital preparation course.

The Marriage Ceremony

• Validity: The marriage license is valid for 60 days from the issue date, and the ceremony must be performed within that time.
  

• Officiant: The ceremony must be performed by an authorized person, such as:

  • An ordained minister, priest, rabbi, or other ordained clergy.

  • A judicial officer (judge, retired judge).

  • A Clerk of the Circuit Court or a deputy clerk.

  • A public notary of the State of Florida.

• Return of License: After the ceremony, the person who performed the marriage (the officiant) is responsible for returning the signed marriage license to the Clerk of Court's office within 10 days to be recorded.

• The couple also has the option to file on their own behalf if they wish. However, please note that if you choose to file yourselves, the county must receive your signed marriage license within 10 days of the ceremony. This can be a great option for out-of-state couples, as you may be able to receive your official marriage certificate on the spot if filing it in person, rather than waiting 2–3 weeks for it to arrive by mail. However, filing the license with the county on your behalf is included in our services, so the choice is entirely yours. Key Details on Returning Your Marriage License: Time Limit: 10 days post-ceremony, not 10 business days. Method: It can be mailed or delivered in person. Consequences: If not returned within the 10-day period, the marriage may not be officially recorded in a timely manner, and the license could be rejected.

Rings

• Wedding rings are optional; however, it is customary for the couple to present them at the ceremony so they may be formally exchanged as part of the ritual.

It is always a good idea to check the specific requirements with the Clerk of Court's office in the county where you plan to apply, as minor procedural details can sometimes vary. Here is a link to the Sarasota County Clerk's office for more information on marriage licenses: https://www.sarasotaclerk.com/Marriage

In Sarasota, no permit is required to get married or renew your vows on most public beaches and parks. However, certain locations, including Bay Preserve at Osprey and Phillippi Estate Park, do require permits. A permit is also required if you plan to set up wedding-related items such as an arch, chairs, aisle décor, or similar equipment, or if your event will have 25 or more guests.

It's always best to confirm directly with Sarasota County Parks and Recreation as they will have current and up-to-date information. They can be reached at: 941-861-7275 or 941-861-9930.

Regarding Public Beaches Only:

Why a permit is usually required:

• Public Safety and Environmental Protection: Permits help local authorities manage beach usage, ensure public safety, and protect the natural environment.
  

• Regulations on Setup: Even a small elopement often involves a photographer with equipment, and some beaches regulate any kind of "setup" (like an arch, chairs, or even just professional photography equipment) that might impact public access or use of the beach.
  

• Commercial Activity: A professional photographer and officiant could be considered commercial activity on public property, which often requires a permit.

Specific to Sarasota County (which includes Siesta Key and Lido Key):

• Siesta Key and Lido Key: These popular beaches in Sarasota County definitely require permits for weddings. The fees vary ($195-$250 for Lido Key Beach and $400-$475 for a wedding at Siesta Key Beach).
  

• Even without an arch or chairs: Even if you don't set up an arch or chairs, a permit might still be required if you have professional vendors (like a photographer) or if the ceremony is considered an "event" on the beach. However, no permit is required for your simple elopement or vow renewal ceremony, but a permit is required to set up a wedding arch, chairs & aisle decor. It's best to confirm directly with Sarasota County Parks and Recreation.
  

• Sarasota County Parks and Recreation: This is the authority to contact for permits (including public beach and public park ceremonies) in Sarasota County. Their number is: 941-861-7275 or 941-861-9930. You can often obtain permits over the phone with a credit card.
  

General Florida Beach Wedding Permit Information:

• Vary by County/City: The rules are determined by the specific county or city where the beach is located, it's not a "blanket state law".

• Attendance Thresholds: Many places have a threshold (e.g., over 25 people) where a permit becomes explicitly required, but even below that, if you have any "set up" or commercial vendors, a permit is often necessary.

• No Blocking Public Access: Regardless of a permit, you generally cannot block off any public areas of the beach.

• Check with the Specific Beach: Always, always, always contact the local county or city parks and recreation department for the specific beach you plan to use. They will have the most accurate and up-to-date information on permit requirements, fees, and any restrictions (like amplified sound or specific decorations).

***Some parks, including Bay Preserve at Osprey, may require permits.***

We recommend couples reach out to the county directly, as they can best answer questions with the details the couple provides.

Nope! Florida does not currently require witnesses for your marriage to be legal.

As long as you have a valid Florida marriage license and your ceremony is performed by an authorized officiant (such as a notary, judge, or ordained minister), your marriage is fully legal — even without any witnesses present.

However, you are always welcome to invite friends or family to share in your special moment if you’d like.

But if you're planning an intimate, just-the-two-of-you elopement in Sarasota, you can absolutely keep it simple.

So don't worry— you won’t need to recruit random strangers for your elopement... unless you want to 😄

Absolutely! In Florida, your marriage license is valid statewide. This means you may obtain your marriage license from any Florida county and legally marry in any other Florida county.

For example, if you receive your marriage license in Hillsborough County, you may absolutely use it to get married in Sarasota County, Miami-Dade County, Orange County, or anywhere else within the state of Florida.

Many couples—especially those getting married for the first time—find the process and terminology a bit confusing, so we’re here to simplify it for you.

To get married in Florida, you’ll need:

• A marriage license from any Florida county courthouse. The marriage license is also known as marriage license application. It is most commonly known as simply "marriage license".

• An officiant (such as an ordained minister, notary public, or another legally authorized individual)

In Florida, witnesses are not required. Your officiant can serve as the witness if you don’t have guests or anyone else present.

To obtain your marriage license:

• Both partners must appear together at the courthouse

• Bring proper identification, such as a valid photo ID

• Your officiant will sign the license on your wedding day

After your ceremony:

The signed marriage license is filed with the county for processing, typically by the officiant. However, couples may choose to file it themselves if preferred. If filed in person, the official marriage certificate is often issued on the spot. If filed by mail, it is typically delivered within 2–3 weeks after the county receives the paperwork.

The simplest way to explain it:

Before your wedding: Obtain your marriage license.

After your ceremony: The signed license is filed with the county.

Then: The county processes your paperwork and issues your official marriage certificate.

If you’re planning to marry in Sarasota County, you can complete your premarital preparation course through a variety of state-approved providers. Completing this course not only helps you prepare for married life, but it also lets you avoid the Florida 3-day waiting period and get a reduced marriage license fee when you submit your certificate with your application.

Options for Completing Your Course

✔️ Online Premarital Courses

Many couples choose online state-approved courses that you can complete at your own pace. These typically take about 4 hours and provide a certificate once finished. Be sure the course issues a valid certificate for Florida marriage license purposes.

✔️ In-Person or Counselor-Led Courses

Licensed counselors and therapists in Sarasota can also lead premarital education that qualifies under Florida law. These can be personalized and interactive if you prefer an in-person experience.

Examples of Local Sarasota Relationship & Counseling Professionals (may offer premarital counseling or training):

(Tip: Before enrolling or scheduling, confirm with the provider that their premarital course satisfies the Florida premarital preparation requirements for a reduced fee and waiting period.)

Requirements and Process

1. Select a Provider: Ensure the provider is registered with your County Clerk.

2. Complete 4 Hours: Florida law requires the course to be at least four hours long.

3. Get Your Certificate: Upon completion, you will receive a Certificate of Completion, often delivered instantly via email.

4. Apply for License: Present your certificate to the Clerk of Court when applying for your marriage license to receive the fee reduction and skip the 3-day wait.

We’re happy to share a list of premarital counseling services, available both in person and online, to support you as you prepare for your special day. Simply reach out to receive the details.

In Florida, a legal marriage ceremony must include a declaration of consent, also known as a declaration of intent or a declaration of commitment, which is also a core legal requirement in most states.

A Declaration of Consent is a legal requirement that confirms both individuals are entering into this marriage willingly, of their own choice and free will.

This is the part of the ceremony where both people verbally affirm their desire to willingly and freely enter into the marriage contract. While the traditional phrase is "I do," the specific wording can be customized as long as it clearly conveys this intent.

This declaration is a legal necessity, not just a tradition, and is what makes the marriage valid and legally binding. It's important to distinguish it from personal vows, which are promises a couple makes to each other but are not typically a legal requirement.

The wedding officiant's job is to ensure the declaration of consent is made, witness the ceremony and sign the marriage license.

Once your ceremony is complete, our officiant will sign and file your marriage license with the county on the same day (or the next business day if the ceremony is performed after hours), provided you have chosen us to handle the filing for you on your behalf.

The county will process and mail your official marriage certificate, complete with the gold seal, within 2 to 3 weeks of receiving the marriage license application. Processing times may vary depending on the volume of applications, your location and holiday closures, so you may receive it sooner or later than this timeframe.

***PLEASE NOTE***: Your official marriage certificate — the one with the gold seal — comes directly from the county, not your officiant. Once the county files and records your marriage in their system, they will mail the official marriage certificate to you. Your officiant does not issue or send your official certificate.

Absolutely! The couple may choose to file their signed marriage license directly with the county where the license was issued, either by mail or in person.

If filing by mail, the official marriage certificate is typically mailed to the couple within two to three weeks after the county receives the paperwork.

If filing in person, your official marriage certificate is typically issued on the spot. You do not need to go together to file the license; anyone can drop it off or mail it to the courthouse. However, most couples rely on their wedding officiant to handle the filing on their behalf after the ceremony.  

If you prefer to take care of it yourself rather than trusting the mail or your officiant:

• The Steps: Ensure the officiant and witnesses have signed the physical license immediately after the ceremony.

• The Delivery: You can either physically take the signed document to your local Clerk of Court or mail it to them (using certified mail with tracking is highly recommended).

• The Deadline: Florida law requires the officiant (or couple) to return the completed license to the office within 10 days after the ceremony. If filing on your own behalf, we recommend filing immediately after the ceremony or the very next business day.

For Ceremony locations within Sarasota—such as Siesta Key Beach, Lido Key Beach, Longboat Key Beach, Bay Preserve at Osprey, Phillippi Estate Park, Osprey, Turtle Beach, and other Sarasota locations—will not incur travel fees.

Travel fees apply to ceremonies held outside of Sarasota, Florida, but within a 20-mile radius of Downtown Sarasota. Meaning, we only service the Sarasota and Manatee County area.

Travel fees vary by location.

For example, ceremonies at Nokomis Beach, Coquina Beach, Bradenton Beach and similar locations incur a $25 travel fee, while weddings at Anna Maria Island or Venice Beach incur a $50 travel fee.

Ceremony locations within Sarasota—such as Siesta Key Beach, Lido Key Beach, Longboat Key Beach, Bay Preserve at Osprey, Phillippi Estate Park, Osprey, Turtle Beach, and other Sarasota locations—will not incur travel fees.

We will always inform you of the applicable travel fee and the total cost before you book.

Great question!

Prices do not vary based on whether your ceremony is on a weekday, weekend, holiday or during off-peak wedding season. 

All ceremony packages are offered at the same rate regardless of the day, time or season you choose.

Some couples contact us at the last minute due to last minute changes or emergencies, while others book 6–8 months in advance.

As long as the officiant is available and has enough time to write your personalized ceremony, you are welcome to book whenever you are ready.

We accept credit cards, PayPal, Apple Pay, and Google Pay. If you have a preferred way to pay, just let us know and we’ll help make the process easy for you.

To reserve your date, reach out with your preferred ceremony date, time, and location. We’ll confirm availability, review the details with you, and guide you through the next steps so booking feels simple and clear.

Yes. We specialize in intimate weddings, from simple beach and park elopements to small ceremonies at popular private venues. A typical intimate wedding includes no more than 25 guests.

Our focus is on the unique beauty and personal connection that smaller celebrations offer, typically including the couple and their closest loved ones.

In addition to public elopements, we officiate intimate weddings at a variety of private venues. Some popular choices include: Michael's on East, Marie Selby Botanical Gardens, Mote Marine Laboratory & Aquarium, and The Ringling Museum. We also perform ceremonies at other private locations like the Sarasota Opera House, Sarasota Garden Club, The Van Wezel, The Ritz Carlton, private boats, golf courses, resorts, and ranches.

This is a question we receive quite often and the simple answer is no, because we are not affiliated with or employed by any specific church.

If you would like to be married inside a church, you will typically need to contact that church directly, as their clergy or pastor will be responsible for officiating the ceremony according to their church’s policies.

At Sarasota Elopements, we believe that a church is more than just a physical building—it is a sacred place where the Holy Spirit is present and where believers gather in faith. Believers are the church.

While many couples appreciate the beauty and tradition of a church wedding, a meaningful and Christ-centered marriage ceremony can also take place outside of a church building. In fact, the first marriage recorded in the Bible—between Adam and Eve—did not take place in a physical church.

We also understand the desire for a traditional, faith-based ceremony. Our officiant, Ann, and her husband experienced a similar situation when they were planning their own wedding. They wanted a Christian ceremony but were not members of a church, which meant they were unable to be married in one.

Because of this, Ann is passionate about providing Christian, faith-based wedding ceremonies for couples who want their marriage centered on Christ—even if they are not members of a church. She is currently in the process of obtaining a Pastoral degree and loves helping couples begin their marriage with a meaningful, Christ-focused ceremony.

While we love everyone, our ceremonies are rooted in our faith and in the covenant made between a man, a woman, and God.

We humbly seek the Lord’s guidance in bringing together only those He has called us to unite in marriage, so that each union honors and glorifies His holy name—rather than joining people arbitrarily for the sake of profit.

The key difference is that commitment ceremonies are not legally binding.

A commitment ceremony allows two people to publicly declare their love and dedication without legal obligations.

Unlike a legal marriage, it doesn't require a marriage license, so the couple's marital status remains unchanged. This option is great for those who want to avoid legal complexities or simply prefer a private bond.

Commitment ceremonies offer flexibility and can be personalized fully, often including vows, rings, and celebrations with loved ones.

A Christian commitment ceremony is similar but includes a declaration in the presence of God.

Vow renewals and commitment ceremonies are such meaningful celebrations! We’re delighted to officiate these heartfelt moments for $200, since they’re typically simpler and not legally binding. A $100 deposit is required at the time of booking.

We offer wedding and ceremony officiating services exclusively within Sarasota and Manatee Counties, covering locations within a 20-mile radius of Downtown Sarasota.

Hillsborough, Pinellas, Charlotte, and all other counties are outside of our service area.

Please note: travel fees may apply.

Ceremony locations within Sarasota—such as Siesta Key Beach, Lido Key Beach, Longboat Key Beach, Bay Preserve at Osprey, Phillippi Estate Park, Osprey, Turtle Beach, and other Sarasota locations—will not incur travel fees.

Locations outside of Sarasota but still within a 20-mile radius, including Anna Maria Island, Bradenton, Venice Beach, Nokomis Beach, Coquina Beach, Bradenton Beach, and similar areas, will require a travel fee. Travel fees vary depending on the specific location.

If your ceremony includes a travel fee, you will be notified prior to booking.

If you’re unsure whether your ceremony location falls within our service area, please reach out—we are happy to help!

When selecting an elopement location in the Sarasota area, Siesta Key Beach, Lido Key Beach, and Longboat Key Beach stand out as the top beach destinations.

FYI - Lido Key Beach, Longboat Key Beach and Turtle Beach are more secluded compared to Siesta Key Beach as they are not as well known as Siesta Key Beach.

For couples dreaming of a park or garden-style setting, popular choices include Bay Preserve at Osprey (Big Waters Land Trust), Phillippi Estate Park, Bayfront Park, Bird Key Park, and The Bay Park.

For something a little more unique, downtown Sarasota (SRQ) offers unique elopement spots such as the Unconditional Surrender Statue and the Dolphin Fountain in Bayfront Park, next to Marina Jack.

Lido Beach Resort, Limetree Beach Resort, The Resort at Longboat Key Club, The Zota, The St. Regis Longboat Key Resort, The Ritz Carlton, and many other resorts host elopements and small weddings as well.

If the weather changes, we’ll work with you to keep the ceremony calm and comfortable. Many couples choose a covered spot, a nearby backup location, or a slight time change when possible. We’ll help you keep things simple and stress-free.

We do not provide professional photography services, but we’re happy to recommend local photographers if desired.

If you aren't planning on booking a photographer, after the ceremony is performed, Ann (our officiant) is more than happy to take a few photos of the couple using their phone or camera, if they’d like. Many couples choose this option.

Yes! Since we specialize in à la carte ceremony officiant services, we are delighted to recommend other vendors for your elopement or intimate wedding. Just let us know what you need, and we'll send over a list of our recommendations.

Florida weather can change quickly, so we recommend having a backup plan. We’re always happy to discuss alternate locations or adjust dates and timing if needed and if we have the availability.

Please remember to bring your marriage license, your rings (if exchanging them), your personal vows (if you are writing your own vows) and any personal items you’d like included in the ceremony.

Absolutely! Live‑streaming your ceremony is a wonderful way to include friends and family who can’t be there in person. We’re completely fine with you streaming your ceremony, so feel free to set it up however you’d like.

Yes! Our officiant steps out of the way for the big kiss at the end of the ceremony, so the couple can have a private moment and so the photographer can get a perfect shot of "the kiss".

Additionally, if the couple chooses to exchange personal vows, Ann will step aside to allow them to fully enjoy a more intimate and private moment together.

At this time, sand unity rituals are the only additional ceremony ritual we offer.

Absolutely! Many couples choose to exchange personal vows during the ceremony. Some couples choose to have traditional Christian vows, while others prefer our officiant to write their vows based on their love story.

Most of our ceremonies are short and sweet, often around 10 to 20 minutes. If you add personal vows, a unity ritual, or extra time for photos, we’ll plan for that too.

Yes. We love helping couples create a ceremony that feels personal and meaningful. We can shape the wording around your love story, your faith, and the tone you want for your day.

Whether you are looking for a sophisticated soirée or a lively party, the Sarasota area offers fantastic options to celebrate your "I do's".

For a sophisticated and elegant celebration, consider the Chart House on Longboat Key. Its beautiful waterfront setting provides a memorable backdrop. Marina Jack in Sarasota is another popular choice, offering stunning bay views and a refined atmosphere. St. Armand's Circle also offers an exquisite and upscale experience with its unique shops and dining.

If you are a fun and free-spirited couple seeking a vibrant atmosphere, Downtown Sarasota is an excellent choice for celebrating with friends and family. You will find a variety of restaurants, bars, and entertainment options.

For a truly fun-loving, beachy vibe, Siesta Key Village is the perfect spot to continue the festivities, with its casual eateries, live music, and proximity to the famous Siesta Key Beach.

Our officiant reads from a printed hard copy of your ceremony, using a professional portfolio as a cover. Although digital devices are convenient, we prioritize reliability to ensure your ceremony proceeds without disruption.

Great question — a lot of couples ask this when thinking about how their photos or ceremony will look. Our officiant does not have any tattoos or extravagant piercings.

Absolutely!

One of the best pieces of marriage advice Ann and her husband ever received was written in their guest book by an anonymous guest during their intimate wedding day: "Remember, it's never you two against each other — it's you two against the problem." What a powerful reminder that marriage isn’t about winning arguments or keeping score; it’s about unity. When challenges come (and they will), the goal is to stand side by side, not face to face.

And from a faith-based perspective, Ann always says: "A marriage built on faith, can withstand any storm." When Christ is at the center, love deepens, grace grows, and forgiveness flows more freely. Faith gives you something steady to hold onto when emotions feel unsteady. Marriage is a covenant — not just between two people, but with God woven beautifully through it. And that kind of foundation changes everything.

One of the most important things in marriage is learning to communicate with patience, kindness, and grace. Marriage is a lifelong partnership, and strong relationships take time to grow and are built through love, commitment, forgiveness; and keeping Christ at the center of your marriage, home, family and lives together is the key.

Absolutely!

We’re big fans of keeping things simple... all you truly need to get married are yourselves, your rings, a valid marriage license from the County Clerk's Office, and an officiant to lead the way. Everything else is just icing on the wedding cake!

We’re always happy to help make the wedding planning process simple and stress-free. Feel free to reach out through our contact page, email, call or text at anytime!