Florida Keys & Key West Wedding FAQ
Q: When is the best time of year to get married in the Florida Keys & Key West?
A: The Florida Keys & Key West's tropical weather year round makes for a wonderful place for a beautiful beach wedding possible any time of the year. Early spring to mid-summer are typically the most popular wedding seasons. However, mid- to late fall are also very popular. Choosing your wedding date during the late summer/early fall, when the Florida Keys tend to experience the "off season" will typically yield more flexibility as the hotel rates may be slightly lower than other, busier times of the year. When selecting your wedding date, be sure to review the Calendar of Events at fla-keys.com to avoid dates that have big, city-wide events or festivals taking place.
Q: How long is the driving distance to the Florida Keys & Key West from major airports?
A: The closest major airports to the Florida Keys & Key West are Miami International Airport and Ft. Lauderdale/Hollywood International Airport. Several flights also can be booked directly into Key West International Airport.
Ground transportation can be arranged for groups with Keys Shuttle, Florida Keys Express and private limousine companies, each with door to door shuttle service from airports, seven days a week. In addition to door to door service, these outfits also provide private charter services. Click here for more “How to Get Here” information.
Q: What is the average size wedding in the Florida Keys & Key West?
A: 50-75 guests is the average. However, the Florida Keys & Key West offer many options for a small, intimate, couples-only wedding, or a large wedding filled with friends, family and fun!
Q: What time of day is best to host my wedding ceremony and reception?
A: Since the Florida Keys is known for its breathtaking sunsets, evening weddings tend to be most popular. It is best to schedule your ceremony approximately one hour prior to the actual sunset time to ensure the best lighting for photographs.
Q: How do we obtain a marriage license, and what is the cost?
A: Obtaining a marriage license is very easy! Out-of-state visitors getting married in the Florida Keys should go to any County Clerk Office in the state of Florida and meet with the Clerk of the Court to obtain a marriage license. Photo identification is required. Both parties must be a minimum of 18 years of age, and the date of divorce or death of a previous spouse must be provided (if applicable). There is no blood test required, and there is no waiting period for non-residents of the State of Florida. If one or both parties are residents of the State of Florida, a three-day waiting period applies. For other information, restrictions and conditions, please contact the Monroe County Government office at 305-292-3550.
Q: How far in advance should I begin planning my destination wedding in the Florida Keys & Key West?
A: Average time frame for planning your Florida Keys wedding is 12-14 months from your wedding date.
Q: How should I go about hiring vendors for my wedding day?
A: The Florida Keys website is home to an extensive list of highly accredited vendors that are sure to make your wedding day as perfect as you have always imagined. You may also inquire about a list of recommended vendors from your wedding sales manager or wedding planner. The Florida Keys & Key West falls in the top 3 most popular wedding destinations, meaning that our vendors are in the business to help you plan your wedding from afar with ease and confidence.