An elopement is a stress-free, intimate way to get married, often chosen by couples looking to avoid the fuss of a traditional wedding. It’s usually done alone but some of my couples have friends and family along for the ride. Eloping allows you to say “I do” in a unique, personal setting, often off the typical tourist path, and can be combined with a Florida holiday. UK couples tell me they choose this option because it’s much easier to get married in Florida than in the UK.

Yes, absolutely! UK couples can legally get married in Orlando, Florida. Florida marriages are recognized as valid in the UK, so you don’t need to re-register your marriage when you return home.

No, you generally do not need to “register” your Florida marriage in the UK. Marriages validly performed overseas are recognized in the UK. Your official Florida marriage certificate will serve as your proof of marriage back home. You’ll just need to notify relevant UK bodies like HMRC, your bank, and maybe the local council.

Couples can elope at any of the Central Florida courthouses or locate an officiant to marry them in local places like gardens, parks and natural springs. I happen to be a photographer who can officiate marriages during photo sessions, making eloping so much easier.

The most popular places to elope in Orlando include local courthouses (like Downtown Orlando or Winter Park), Disney Springs for an affordable Disney-themed option, and stunning natural spots like Leu Gardens, Kraft Azalea Garden, and Kelly Park/Rock Springs. You can learn more about these options here.

Yes, you need an officiant to legally marry you. If you choose to get married at a courthouse, one of the clerks will marry you. If you choose a location other than the courthouse, an elopement photographer like me can often officiate your marriage during your photo session, making the process incredibly easy and seamless. I don’t charge extra to officiate marriages for my clients.

You can easily obtain a marriage license at any of the local Orange County Clerk of Courts offices. You don’t usually need an appointment, and the process is straightforward. If you work with me, I can guide you through the whole process! This is a set-by-step guide for how to get your marriage license in Orlando.

The cost of eloping in Orlando varies depending on your chosen location and services. Options range from a courthouse ceremony for $30 to eloping at Disney Springs for around $650. Eloping at Leu Gardens with a photographer who can also officiate your marriage (like me!) costs only the $15 entrance fee to get into the gardens. You’ll be paying me for your photo session but I don’t charge extra to officiate the ceremony. For Kraft Azalea Garden, there’s a $25 photography permit fee.

I charge $860 for up to 2 hours of photography in one location. I don’t charge extra to officiate.