How to Elope in Orlando

You’re probably here because you and your partner want an elopement filled with sun and adventure, and decided Orlando had both, but now you have no idea how to elope in Orlando. Am I right? That’s where I come in! I’ve created this guide to tell you the where’s, the when’s, and the how’s for eloping in Orlando! If you’re looking for the best information from a Florida native who has photographed dozens of Florida elopements, then you’re in the right place! Let’s dive on in!

In this How to Elope in Orlando blog, we will cover:

• Where to Elope in Orlando
• When to Elope in Orlando
• How to Elope in Orlando
• What To Do for Your Orlando Elopement
• What to Bring to Elope in Orlando
• Example Timelines 
• Orlando Elopement Packages

Where To Elope in Orlando

Picking where to elope can be the hardest part of your elopement planning process! Orlando is huge and has so many different neightborhoods with each location having its very own vibe. Orlando can be broken down into about 3 main areas:

• Downtown Orlando
• International Drive
• Walt Disney World Resorts

If you want to learn more about Orlando’s areas, neighborhoods, and main streets, check out this Visit Orlando website!

If you’re looking for downtown urban life: Downtown Orlando
If you’re looking for the most magic: every part of Walt Disney World
If you’re wanting adventure and attractions: International Drive

There’s so many options that it’s hard to narrow down specific locations. From everything from The Magic Kingdom, Universal Studios, Old Towne, art districtsm and so much more, there’s no end of excitement in Orlando!

No matter which region you end up going to, keep in mind that there may be wedding and/or photography permits needed for each county, park, or location. My biggest tip for finding your location? Work with a Orlando elopement photographer who can help you you navigate these permit waters and suggest locations that fit your vision!

Need help finding the perfect Orlando elopement location? Let’s plan something together!

When To Elope In Orlando

Florida is pretty much tropical all year round! Don’t be fooled though. Florida gets occasional cold frontts in the winter months that will drop into the 30s and 40s. It will normally pass in a few days though!

Generally, here’s what you can expect:

• Spring (March-May): Hot (mid 70s to mid 80s), humid, with higher rain chances towards May.
• Summer (June-August): Hotter (mid 80s to mid 90s), more humid, longer days (~8 PM sunset), and afternoon thunderstorms are like clockwork. If you want a summer elopement, opt for a sunrise ceremony!
• Fall (September-November): Less hot (mid 80s) with lower rain chances after October.
• Winter (December-January): Prime time with the weather! Cooler day time temperatures (low to mid 70s), rain chances are superrrrr low, the days are shorter (~5 PM sunset), the bugs aren’t out as much, and your evenings are cool.

Keep this in mind before setting a date! Florida’s hurricane season starts in June and goes all the way until November. If you plan to elope during this time, plan an early summer (June/July) as hurricane activity picks up later in the season between mid-August and mid-October. If you want to elope during this time, travel insurance is a must!

Outside of hurricane season, you want to choose a date that will avoid crowds! Plan your elopement during an off-season, non-holiday weekend, or during the week!

We can’t forget about our mortal enemies, the Florida mosquitos and no-see-ums. These biting insects are TERRIBLE in the hot summer months. If you want to avoid getting eaten alive, look to get married during the late fall/winter months (November through February).

Need help figuring out the best time to elope in Orlando? Let me help guide you!

How To Elope In Orlando

Florida is one of the easiest states to elope! There are two easy steps for making it legal in Florida! 

You’ll first need to apply for a marriage license at Orange County Clerk of Court. You can apply online ahead of time. If you’re a non-Florida resident, you can pick up your marriage license the same day you plan to sign it! If you’re a Florida resident, there’s a 3-day waiting period. The cost of the license varies by county; however, they’re around $80.

To apply for a marriage license, you’ll need your driver’s license or state ID. Both people must be present. Florida does not require blood test or medical exams.

Once you have your marriage license, you can elope anywhere in Florida within 60 days. Check with the applicable Clerk of Court before making plans to ensure you have all your ducks in a row.

Now that you have your marriage license, you’ll need someone to make it official. This can be any ordained minister, priest, rabbi or other ordained clergy, judges of the state of Florida, or Public notaries of the state of Florida. Don’t want to hire an officiant? Find a photographer (like me) who’s a Florida notary and can make it legal while you’re out adventuring. One less person to worry about!

Heads up – there are two spaces for witness signatures on the Florida marriage license. However, this is not a requirement of the state. Did you know that your dog can sign in this spot? Heart. Melted.

Need help figuring out what you need and when you need it for your marriage license? Let’s plan your elopement!

What To Do For Your Orlando Elopement

Florida is so much more than the beach! With a never ending supply of warm weather and sunshining days, adventuring outdoors comes easy in this state. While I have a running list of things to do for your Florida elopement, here are a few of my favorites:

• Get hitched at a spring head and kayak down the Emerald Cut
• Visit some breweries
• Head to a trendy food hall
• Go to Universal and ride some rides
• Explore Old Towne
• Check out some vintage buildings
• Visit murals
• Rent a swan boat and pop champagne

There’s endless opportunities to make your Orlando elopement exactly how you want it with YOUR kind of adventure!

Need help brainstorming ideas? Let’s create something epic together!

What To Bring To Elope in Orlando

Depending on the time of year and the weather, here’s a quick list of all the things to have handy for your Orlando elopement:

• Marriage License
• Pen
• Backpack
• Bug spray
• Sunscreen
• Umbrella
• Rain coat
• Snacks
• Water
• Towel (if we plan to get into the water)
• Change of clothes (if you tend to sweat)
• Some form of celebratory drinks for post I do’s!

Example Timelines

Your Orlando elopement can be as epic as you want, but how exactly does that look? Below are three options to give you an idea!

4-Hour Timeline

Hour 1: Getting ready, details, & first look
Hour 2-3: Ceremony & mini adventure
Hour 4: Portraits at golden hour

8-Hour Timeline

Hour 1: Getting ready, details, & first look
Hour 2-6: Ceremony & half day adventure
Hour 7: Portraits at golden hour
Hour 8: Dinner & drinks

12-Hour Timeline

Hour 1: Getting ready, details, & first look
Hour 2-5: Ceremony, lunch break, & adventure at first location
Hour 6-12: Adventure & portraits at second location

Orlando Elopement Photographer

If you’ve made it this far, it means you’re ready to elope in Orlando, but maybe you’re feeling a bit overwhelmed with all that’s involved? If that’s you and you would love for someone to help brainstorm ideas, plan out the logistics, give you recommendations, andddddddd capture epic photos, then I’m your girl!