An Intimate Getaway That Feels Like You
The Florida Keys has an incredible amount of locations that are ideal for elopements. Nestled between the Atlantic Ocean on the East and the Gulf waters on the West, the Keys offer swaying palms, gorgeous blue water, and dreamy sunsets that paint the sky every night. You’ll feel like you’re a world apart when you’re really just a short drive from Miami.
For couples who envision an intimate wedding on a private beach in Key Largo, or eloping at the end of a dock at a beachfront resort in Islamorada, below, we’ll show you everything you need to know about planning your Florida Keys elopement.
How Do You Elope in the Florida Keys?
Eloping in the Keys is easier than you might think. You’ll need to do a few things:
- Get your Florida Marriage License. While Florida residents do have a three-day waiting period, non-Florida residents can marry right away. You will need to visit the county courthouse or you can skip the courthouse with Marriage by Mail’s exclusive proxy service before your trip to Florida.
- Choose your Location. The beauty of the Florida Keys can be found in oceanfront resorts and public beaches. While many beaches may require permits, the team at Small Miami Weddings will help you get a Florida Keys beach elopement permit and many times we will apply for the beach wedding permit on your behalf.
- Book your officiant and elopement photographer. Small Miami Weddings offers Florida Keys elopement packages, complete with a wedding officiant, Keys elopement photographer, personal flowers, and ceremony coordination. Everything you need to elope in Florida Keys.
Do You Need a Permit to Elope on the Beach in the Keys?
Yes. If you are planning to elope on a beach in the Florida Keys,
you will need to apply for a beach elopement permit. Monroe County and local agencies issue these permits. Make sure to talk to your Small Miami Weddings planning team about the process of eloping in Florida Keys. Many times, our team handles the beach elopement permit application process.
Can I Have My Islamorada Elopement At My Resort?
Absolutely! There are quite a few properties scattered throughout the Florida Keys. Many of these oceanfront resorts are ideal locations for a Florida Keys elopement. Resort fees vary for elopements in the Florida Keys so make sure you reach out to the resort rep for more information. Our team can also connect you with the right team
When is the Best Time to Elope in Florida?
The Keys are beautiful year-round, but timing makes a big difference in your overall experience:
- Spring and Winter (Dec-April): Most popular due to mild temperatures and less humidity. But this also means larger crowds and higher rates in lodging and dining.
- Summer (May-August): Less popular due to hotter weather and more humidity, but this means fewer crowds and better deals. Adventurous couples may also enjoy water activities.
- Fall (Sept-Nov): You’ll find the best deals and more privacy. It’s peak hurricane season, so make sure to have a backup plan in mind.
How Many Guests Can We Bring to Our Elopement?
A Florida Keys elopement is usually just for the coupl,e but sometimes, a few guests are invited. Our Florida Keys elopement packages allow for up to 10 guests to share in your day.
How Much Does it Cost to Elope in the Florida Keys?
The cost of eloping in the Florida Keys depends on how much or little you’d like to celebrate. Our Florida Keys Elopement Packages include everything you need to elope in the Florida Keys:
- Elopement Planner to help with logistics
- Wedding Officiant
- Elopement Photographer
- Personal Florals
Aside from that, you should expect to budget for things like
- Florida marriage license fee is $86
- Elopement permit fee or Resort wedding fee (beach elopement or resort elopement)
- Travel and lodging
- Elopement dinner or celebration
- Videography
- Hair and Makeup services
Ready to Elope in the Florida Keys?
Whether you’re drawn to a Florida Keys private beach elopement or a resort elopement in Islamorada, marrying in the Keys is a vibe of its own.
We’d love to help you create your own unforgettable wedding experience. Learn more about our Florida Keys Elopement Collection, and let’s start planning your tropical celebration.
Thinking of eloping in Islamorada? Small Miami Weddings would love to help! Contact us to get started on planning your Florida elopement today!
Photography by Small Miami Weddings
