Getting married in The Florida Keys is always a dream come true for my couples! The gorgeous sunsets, clear waters, and boutique resorts captivate couples looking for the perfect destination wedding location. As a Florida Keys native, I know everything there is to know about getting married here! When you work with us as your photographers and videographers, you don’t just get incredible photos; you get an expert. Our packages include our exclusive wedding planning guide, which covers all the details you need to know. Today, I wanted to share the top 5 things to know about getting married in The Florida Keys!
There is ALWAYS something going on in the Keys.
Between festivals, parades, and boat races, there is never a shortage of fun. But that also means more people, higher hotel prices, and longer travel times. Check the Keys Tourism calendar to make sure you aren’t choosing a date during a major event. The first thing I tell all of my couples is this check this calendar before you start picking wedding dates and contacting venues!
Get Your Marriage License When You Arrive
Marriage licenses can be obtained at any Clerk of Court’s office in the Keys. If you are a Florida resident, there is a three-day waiting period – unless you’ve taken a marriage class. If you are a Non-Florida resident, there is no waiting period. However, I would still give yourself 2-3 days just in case! I suggest to my couples to arrive at least three days before their wedding, so they have plenty of time to get their marriage license.
You NEED a planner
Not a day-of coordinator, not the planner at the venue. Planning from a distance is tough, so you need someone in your corner to help you get things in order so you can really relax and enjoy your wedding day. Hiring a wedding planner will make sure everything comes together perfectly. They can help you find the best vendors, figure out your rentals, and help you create the best timeline for your day. Most venues have coordinators, but these are not personal planners. They will not be there for all of the details! They are just there on behalf of the venue. A wedding planner will be on your side and work with all of your vendors.
We Might Be Small, But Travel Takes Time
Even though it is a small island, there is still travel time to consider! There is only one road in and one road out, so make sure you have extra travel time in your schedule if necessary. Most venues in the Florida Keys don’t have a ceremony and reception spot on-site, so if you pick two different venues for your day, add in plenty of travel time! I always suggest resorts, like the Waldorf Casa Marina Resort. This venue lets you have all the wedding events happen at one resort!
Don’t Forget Hurricane Season
Hurricane season is June 1 – November 30th. Even without a hurricane, it can be very rainy, muggy, and HOT! If you have your heart set on a summer wedding, please make sure to keep you and your guests hydrated and consider an indoor reception. Most guests will not be used to eh extreme humidity, so keep that in mind when picking a venue. I suggest Spring and Fall since these are the best months for weather. Also, consider that it is windier by the ocean. So items like ceremony decor and arches will need to be weighed down.
Book An Expert Photographer
No matter what month you select for your dream wedding here in the Florida Keys, we are here to help! We are a team of passionate photographers who have years of experience shooting weddings in the Keys. When you work with us, we help create the perfect timeline and are there every step of the way. We also offer video services so that you can have both photography and videography on your special day. We are booking for 2022 and 2023 – so reach out today!
