Dear Peggy,
We’re getting married in the Florida Keys this fall and am wondering if we need to get a marriage license in the Keys or in Wisconsin where we live?  Is there a waiting period?  Do we need a blood test?  Thanks. – Sandy

Dear Sandy,
Those are very good questions.  A Florida marriage license is required to get married anywhere in Florida.

Here’s what you’ll need to bring with you?

Identification- Both of you must bring a picture ID. It can be a driver’s license, state ID, military ID or a valid passport. You may also be asked to show a certified copy of your birth certificate.

If you’re a U.S. citizen you must provide your social security number. If you’re not a U.S. citizen you must provide proof of an alien registration.

Proof of Age: You must be 18 years of age.  Please check with the county clerk’s office where you are applying for more details.

Money-  The fee for a Florida marriage license is $93.50.   Please note: Fees and rules can be subject to change, always check with the county clerk’s office before applying.

Show up in person- Both of you must be present to apply, sign the application, and take an oath that you have given correct information.

Is a blood test required?
No, Florida does not require a blood test for couples getting married.

Is there a waiting period?

Not for non-residents of Florida.

How long is the marriage license valid?
Your license is valid for 60 days from the effective date of the license.

Who can marry us?

Any ordained clergy, public notaries of the state, judicial officers (this includes retired judicial officers) and Clerks of the Circuit Courts.

If you have any other questions please let me know.  – Peggy

Dear Peggy,
I want to give my wedding guests a gift that says “thank you for flying all this way to my wedding in the Keys” but I don’t have a clue as to what I should get them.  Do you have any ideas? – Camile

Dear Camile,
First off, I’m so glad that you want to thank your guests.  Your guests are going the distance to attend your destination wedding and showing your appreciation is so sweet of you.  An idea that I often suggest is a welcome bag with items from the Keys.

For example,

 

Florida Key Lime Taffy -
A bag of Florida Key Lime Taffy makes a fun and delicious wedding favor!

 

 

 

Florida Orange Rum Cake -
No matter where they are, they can enjoy the taste of the Keys with this delectable gift.

 

 

 

 

…and if you want to be extra clever give them something that says “thank you for coming to my wedding in the Keys” with a twist…like a “key chain” personalized with your wedding details.

 

 

 

Whatever it is I’m certain that your wedding guests will appreciate the gesture.  If you need help ordering wedding favors for your destination wedding in the Keys just let me know.” – Peggy

Dear Peggy,
My sister and I got engaged the same week and we’re thinking of having a double destination wedding in the Keys.  Is it harder to plan a double destination wedding than a single one…and can it be pulled off?” – Gloria

Dear Gloria,
Anything is possible when you have a great wedding planner in the Keys doing the work for you. (tee hee) Planning a double wedding in the Keys is twice the work but you’ll save money on flowers, venue space, invitations, etc. considering you have the same family members who will more than likely be in attendance.   This is definitely a cost-effective idea but can also create headaches if not done right.  Give me a call and let’s chat about your vision. – Peggy

We had the privilege of working with K and K Photography on a destination wedding at the Hawks Cay Resort in the Florida Keys.

K and K Photography shot some amazing photos and we’re so pleased that they were published on the Destinations Inspiration wedding blog.

If you’re looking for the perfect destination for a Florida Keys wedding you’ll want to check out Hawks Cay Resort.

We have been so pleased this year to have several of our photographers have our Weddings published. Getting married at a destination is made so much easier when you have great vendors and the Photographer can make it that much more special.

K and K were so professional but really personal it made a perfect combination!

We have been doing Keys Weddings for almost 10 years and working with local vendors that make the moment so special! Please fee free to give us a call  let’s chat about your dream destination wedding plans!
Peggy and the Team
847-612-4712

 

 

Dear Peggy,
I live in the mid west and our wedding in the Keys will be my first time at a beach.  What do you suggest I wear for shoes? – Kimberly

Dear Kimberly,
As the bride you have the option to wear whatever you want.  However, you will want to take into consideration the sand and water.  There are several types of beautiful wedding sandals as well as my favorite type of beach wedding “shoe” which is the barefoot bridal sandal.  They’re strings of elegant jewels that connect to your middle toe and ankle resulting in a beautiful drape over the top of your foot.

Put together a look that means something special to you and you’ll remember it for years to come.  I’m more than happy to suggest some websites that sell beach wedding sandals that leave an imprint in the sand as well as jeweled, barefoot sandals.  Just give me a call and let’s chat. – Peggy