If you’re getting married in Miami, you’re choosing one of the most beautiful wedding destinations in the country (in our humble opinion). From modern downtown rooftops to beach wedding venues, a Miami wedding offers breathtaking scenery and vibrant diversity.
As a husband-and-wife Naples, Florida photographer and videographer team who regularly work throughout South Florida, we’ve seen firsthand how unique Miami weddings can be. We’ve photographed and filmed weddings across Florida, and there’s one major thing we’ve noticedc: planning ahead can make all the difference.
Whether you’re local to South Florida or planning a destination celebration, here’s what you need to know before getting married in Miami, Florida.
Why Have a Miami Wedding?
One of the biggest reasons why Miami is so popular is because of the incredible variety of wedding experiences you could have.
Miami features a plethora of options. You can exchange vows overlooking the ocean, celebrate in a historic mansion, host an elegant ballroom reception, or combine multiple styles into one wedding day. When it comes to places to have a wedding in Miami, the possibilities are almost endless.
Another advantage is accessibility. Miami International Airport makes travel easy for guests flying in from across the country and internationally, which is especially helpful for those who are hosting destination weddings.
Tips For Planning a Miami Wedding
One thing to note is that Miami is one of the more expensive cities for weddings. And because Miami hosts major events year-round (including international conferences, sporting events, festivals, and tourism-driven weekends) hotel rates, venue pricing, and vendor availability can fluctuate significantly.
Before selecting your wedding date, spend some time Googling what major events may be happening during that month. Avoiding busy weekends can save you money and make hotels easier to find for your guests.
When planning your budget, factor in venue costs, accommodations, transportation, and any additional fees that may come with popular wedding dates.
The Perks of Miami Weather
One of the biggest perks of getting married in Miami FL is the warm weather.
Miami is sunny and consists of beautiful temperatures throughout the year, making outdoor ceremonies possible nearly year-round. That being said, weather should still be a major factor when choosing a wedding date.
Summer weddings can be extremely hot and humid, especially during afternoon ceremonies. If you’re planning a summer celebration, consider indoor reception spaces, shaded ceremony locations, and plenty of hydration for your guests.
Hurricane season officially runs from June through November. And while many weddings can still happen without issue during these months, purchasing wedding insurance is something that’s strongly recommended. Wedding insurance can provide valuable protection if severe weather impacts travel plans or your wedding venue.
How to Get Married in Miami, Florida Legally
One of the most common questions we hear from destination couples is the legal process on how to get married in Miami, Florida. Fortunately, the process is fairly straightforward.
You can apply for your marriage license at any county clerk’s office in Florida, and the license is valid throughout the entire state. Couples having a Miami wedding typically obtain their license through the Miami-Dade Clerk of Courts.
To apply, both partners must present a valid government-issued photo ID, such as a driver’s license or passport. You’ll also need to provide your Social Security numbers. If either person has been previously married, you’ll need to know the exact date and reason that marriage ended.
The standard wedding license Miami fee is approximately $93.50. But couples who complete an approved Florida premarital preparation course may qualify for a reduced fee.
Florida residents are generally subject to a three-day waiting period unless they complete the approved course. Out-of-state residents do not have a waiting period requirement.
For the ceremony itself, an ordained minister, judicial officer, or Florida notary public can officiate your wedding. Witnesses are generally not required unless your ceremony is performed by a notary public.
Choosing the Right Venue in Miami, FL
One of the most exciting parts of wedding planning in Miami, FL is choosing your favorite wedding venue in South Florida. Miami offers an incredible range of locations depending on your vibe.
If you’re dreaming of a European-inspired wedding without leaving South Florida, historic estates like Vizcaya Museum and Gardens offer stunning architecture and waterfront views.
If you’re wanting luxury, couples often gravitate toward oceanfront resorts and hotels in Miami Beach. Many of these venues offer both ceremony and reception spaces, making planning easier, especially for destination weddings.
If you’re going for a modern architecture vibe, downtown Miami features rooftop venues with incredible skyline views that create an unforgettable experience.
If you’re looking for more of a beach celebration, there are countless Miami beach wedding locations. Many resorts also offer customizable Miami beach wedding packages that simplify the planning process for out-of-town couples.
The best venue ultimately comes down to your guest count, budget, and overall vision for your wedding day.
When Should You Book Your Vendors?
Miami is a highly competitive wedding market. The most sought-after venues, South Florida wedding planners, Florida photographers, and videographers often book more than a year in advance.
If your wedding date is important to you, we recommend securing your major vendors as early as possible. This is especially true if you’re planning a spring wedding or choosing a highly desirable venue.
As a wedding photography and videography team, we always encourage couples to think about photography and videography early in the planning process. These are the memories you’ll return to long after the wedding day is over.
Booking a photo and wedding videographer in Florida team that already works together can also make your day feel much smoother. Since we’re husband and wife, we’ve mastered the art of working seamlessly alongside each other. That means better communication, less stress, and a more cohesive final gallery and wedding film.
Is Miami the Right Wedding Destination for You?
If you love beautiful weather, diverse venue options, amazing food, and a city that feels full of energy, Miami is hard to beat.
Whether you’re envisioning a luxury ballroom celebration, a waterfront ceremony, or one of the many other incredible wedding venues in Miami Florida, the city offers something for nearly every couple.
Let’s Capture Your Miami Wedding
If you’re currently getting married in Miami and looking for a photo and Miami wedding videographer team that values authentic moments, meaningful storytelling, and a seamless experience, we’d love to connect.
As a husband-and-wife team, we capture both wedding photography in South Florida and videography while working together throughout the entire day. Our goal is simple: to help you feel comfortable, present, and able to fully enjoy every moment.
Reach out today to learn more about working together for your Miami wedding.
