

Whether you’ve always wanted to elope in Tampa or maybe you’re just exploring the idea for now, I’ve created this guide to walk you through everything you need to know about eloping here. I’ve included everything from getting started with the legalities, best times to elope, best places to elope, and all the insider information you need!
After helping dozens of couples plan fun-focused elopements in Tampa, I’ve found the best ways to have the time of your life is to be prepared ahead of time and know what you need to do before you’ve started brainstorming ideas.
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You might already know why you want to elope in Tampa. Maybe it holds sentimental value. Maybe you’ve visited once before and had a great time. Or maybe you’ve never been, but it has all the amenities you want in a city. And as an elopement photographer that’s helped so many couples plan their elopement here, I wanted to share another reason Tampa is perfect for your elopement.
Tampa is FULL of culture and adventure. There are dozens of districts within this metropolitan from the Cuban flair of Ybor City to the pops of art downtown to the excitement of SoHo. With so many different locations to choose from, you’re bound to create an elopement experience that is SO unique. And because Tampa is a huge city, there are so many different opportunities for adventure, activities, and fun stops around the city.
If you’re wanting an urban elopement with plenty of options for food and drink experiences, unique city adventures, and luxe accommodations, Tampa is the perfect location. It’s also very close to beaches and springs for an outdoorsy variation.

Planning your elopement in Tampa is super simple and Florida is one of the easiest states to get legally married in! The state of Florida has all the same marriage requirements regardless of the county, but I’ve included Tampa-specific information below to make this process seamless for you.
To get legally married in Tampa, you’ll need to apply in person for a marriage license through the Hillsborough County Clerk of Court. This Clerk of Court does have a fully online application process. This is unique to this Florida county, but I highly recommend taking advantage of it if you’re coming from out of town.
If you’re not a Florida resident, you can apply and get married the same day as there’s no waiting period. However, if you are a Florida resident, there’s a 3-day waiting period after you apply unless you’ve taken a pre-maritial course.
Before you go to the Clerk of Court, make sure you both have a legal form of identification (driver’s license, passport, or state ID), social security numbers, dates of any past marriages, and form of payment.
Now that you’ve got your marriage license, you’ll need someone to legally marry you! This can be an ordained officiant (minister, priest, rabbi, etc.), Florida judge, or Florida notary. There’s also a spot on your marriage license for two witnesses; however, this is optional in the state of Florida. If you’d like to learn more about marriage requirements in the state of Florida, read through my how to elope in Florida guide!
Psst…I’m a Florida notary. That means I can legally marry you and photograph your adventure, all in one. No need to coordinate an extra person!
While Florida has mild temperatures all year long, there are a few months that are better to elope in Tampa! As a Florida native, I highly recommend anywhere between late November and April. This is just after hurricane season where the temperatures and humidity are lower and there are way less bugs! Keep in mind that if you opt for a winter date, there’s a chance that it could be pretty cold (think low 40s) during the day. As long as you’re prepared for that chance, it’s really a perfect time!
Timing Considerations:
Tampa’s neighborhoods each have their own vibe, which makes picking the right elopement location a fun part of the planning process. Tampa has no shortage of pretty ceremony locations, but these are some of the best (and my absolute favorite) locations for an elopement.
Once a historic federal courthouse, Le Meridien Tampa is now a boutique hotel with white marble steps and dramatic pillars. This location is perfect for couples who want a historic backdrop close to downtown amenities. Stay in the hotel for an even more elevated experience! It’s my favorite place to stay in Tampa. Heads up – this location does require a reservation and photography permit to elope here!


If you want to elope at the actual courthouse, the Hillsborough County Courthouse delivers. The exterior is clean and classic, and it’s a great option if you’re going for a quick legal ceremony. The courthouse offers a private ceremony spot within the building for an additional fee. There’s a few chairs to invite guests. Pair it with downtown exploration or drinks nearby to make it a full experience.
This rooftop venue gives you views of the Hillsborough River and Tampa’s skyline. It’s modern, minimal, and totally customizable if you want a little more structure to your elopement or intimate wedding. Plus, it’s connected to Armature Works, which means you’re steps away from cocktails and good eats post-ceremony. Renting this venue gives you photography permission at Armature Works!


For couples who want something bold and colorful (and free), Tampa’s mural scene is incredible. Seminole Heights and Downtown are packed with street art that adds personality and edge to your photos. It’s a laid-back, fun way to elope in Tampa and perfect for couples that aren’t inviting any guests to their ceremony.
If you’re looking for a unique and intimate location, this is it. Boat elopements are totally private (since you’ll book the entire vessel for your elopement) and offer the flexibility to include any sort of adventures want throughout your time like island hopping, wildlife watching, etc. This is also a great option if you’re inviting a few guests to celebrate with you, but keep in mind that there are United States Coast Guard limitations for how many people can be aboard.
There are tons of boat types to choose from. Make sure you pick one that aligns with your invite list and the types of activities you plan to do throughout the day. Talk with the captain about your plans before booking.


Tampa has a bunch of funky, modern, and historic homes that would make for a perfect elopement ceremony location. Use AirBnB, VRBO, or property management companies to find the perfect accommodation for your vision. Always check with the owner or property management company if they’re okay with this.
If you’re dreaming of something sophisticated, charming, and a little upscale, Oxford Exchange is that place. With its black-and-white tile floors, glass conservatory, and moody bookshop vibes, this spot is perfect for couples who want a timeless, editorial-style elopement. Bonus? The food and coffee are amazing so you can make a full date out of your elopement day. Heads up – there is a permit required to photograph at this location!
Fancy Free Nursery is a hidden gem that makes you feel like you’re in a secret garden tucked inside the city. It’s one of the best intimate wedding spots in Tampa for couples who want something fresh and non-traditional. A reservation is required to have your ceremony at this location.
When it comes to eloping in Tampa, beaches might first come to mind, but Tampa doesn’t have any. To get those white sandy beaches, you’ll have to travel across the bridges towards Clearwater or St. Pete. But that doesn’t mean you can’t elope on the sand and then head back into the city!
Keep in mind that some locations will require a permit or reservation! Working with an elopement photographer means you get the inside scoop on best locations and get help with the location’s permitting process.
There’s a HUGE misconception that eloping in Tampa means a quick ceremony and a few photos. But one of my favorite things as an elopement photographer is helping couples brainstorm activities and adventures they can include! This is what sets your elopement up for being a once-in-a-lifetime experience. Here are some unforgettable ways to add adventure, fun, and personality to your elopement:
An elopement can be as laid-back or as adventurous as you want. Whether you’re eating your way through Armature Works or trying out fancy cocktails in downtown, the vibe is entirely up to you. Looking for more ideas? Check out my full list of Florida elopement ideas!










Maybe while you read through this guide you realized that you need a little more help figuring out how to elope in Tampa. If that’s the case, I would love to show you how I can help!
As an elopement photographer, my experience is designed to make the process as easy and straightforward as possible. That way you can focus more on enjoying your elopement day. That’s why every package includes:
Whether you want to explore downtown Tampa, rent a yacht to watch dolphins and sunsets, or drink cocktails in Hyde Park, I’m here to help you make it happen and capture every moment.

Hey there! I’m Anna, your Tampa expert and elopement photographer, and good vibes specialist! I’m based in Florida, where the water is always close and the vibes are chill and tropical. Tampa is so much more than a big city, and I l o v e showing rad folks like you just what makes this place special. From choosing the perfect location to figuring out those pesky permits to ensuring every detail aligns with your vision, I’ve got you covered.

“I can’t say enough about Anna. She literally knocked it out of the park. If you’re contemplating an elopement, do it! If you’re contemplating Anna as your photographer, don’t even think twice, do it. I promise you won’t regret it! I don’t warm up to people quickly and as soon as I met Anna I felt like I had known her for years. Anna is so down to earth and easy to work with. Her ability to make you feel like you and your spouse are the only people that exist in a crowded room is impeccable. Nothing about the day was awkward or felt staged. We just did our thing, had fun and Anna was there to capture all of it. We truly had the time of our life. I love looking back on our photos and being reminded of how much fun that we had. I can’t wait for Anna to capture every season of our life.”
Tami + Mason
See their elopement day!
“How do I even begin to review Anna?! (…) She was instantly our best friend! We both truly could not believe how comfortable she made us through the MULTITUDE of photoshoots we booked. (…) We eloped in urban downtown Tampa, had a day after session in Stuart on a magical beach that reminded of us North Cali. I also was DYINGGGG to “trash my dress” WE ran through magical fountains in Tampa and jumped in the pool to finish the night. She bar hopped with us the whole time, caught our love on camera while sharing intimate vows in a way I didn’t know possible. It all started with a cozy zoom call of cracking jokes, a little cussing, lots of beer talk and the feeling of home. She took care of everything and it was magic. She has made our hearts and ideas come to life with every shoot we have booked. We love you Anna, will you stay with us forever?”
Kenzie + Thomas
See their elopement day!



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