
Frequently Asked Questions
Start Times:
Wedding ceremony start times can vary depending on the season. Dusk arrives earlier November through February, so evening ceremonies begin as early as 4:30, whereas March through October is 6:00-10:00. Romantic holidays such as Valentine's Day, Sweetest Day, New Year's Eve, Christmas Eve, and Thanksgiving services can roll until midnight! In any case, we ask you to arrive at least 30 minutes prior to your ceremony start time and you will be given 30 minutes after the ceremony for posed portraits in and around the chapel.
Do we need to get a Florida Marriage License for our wedding?
Yes, every couple is required to get a Florida Marriage license to legally perform your wedding ceremony in Florida. You can obtain your marriage license in any county in Florida. It does not have to be obtained from the county you are getting married in.
When Should I get my Florida Marriage License?
If BOTH of you are non-Florida residents (out-of-state), you can get your Florida marriage license the same day. If one, or both of you, are a Florida resident, there is a three day waiting period, and this waiting period does not include the day you obtain your marriage license. You can get your marriage license up to 60 days before your wedding.
Is our Marriage License an additional cost?
Your Florida marriage license is NOT INCLUDED in any of our packages. The bride and groom must obtain their own marriage license. The cost of a Florida marriage license is $86.00
What do I need to get my Marriage License?
You will need a valid government issued photo ID. If one, or both of you have been divorced, you will need the date your divorce was finalized. No blood tests are needed to obtain your license. If you are an international visitor, there is no residency or citizenship requirement to apply for a Florida marriage license but you will need your photo passport.
Is my Florida Marriage License Valid in my home town?
Your Florida marriage license is valid in all 50 states, as well as internationally. If you are not a citizen of the United States, you will need to register your certified copy of your marriage license with your own country for validation.
I got My Marriage license, now what?
You must bring your Florida marriage license with you to your ceremony. We will take it with us and officially file it after the ceremony. It may take several weeks for you to receive your certificate from the county clerk.
Deposit, Cancellation, Rescheduling and Refund Policies
A deposit (50% of package price) is needed to reserve your date. Deposits are refundable up to 30 days prior to your reservation. This reserves your date, package, staff, location, etc. Shorter than 30 days, your package is transferable to a new date.
What happens if it rains on my wedding day?
It is unusual that it rains all day in Florida, and usually is just a passing shower. If this is the case and moving your wedding time up is not an option, we can wait it out for up to 60 minutes
How to obtain a marriage license:
Qualifications:
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You must be at least 18 years of age to apply without parental consent.
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Both parties must apply in person and bring identification.
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If you have been divorced, the divorce decree is required.
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If your previous marriage ended in death, the date of death is required.
Fees:
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$86.00 without a premarital preparation course, and there is no blood test.
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Payment of fee accepted in cash, money order, cashier check, Visa, or Master Card
Florida Statute Requirements:
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All Florida applicants are subject to a 3-day waiting period.
There is no waiting period for non-residents -
All applicants are required to read the Family Law Handbook (available on premises).
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A Marriage license is valid for 60 days from the effective date.
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If the marriage license is obtained in Florida, the couple may be married
anywhere in the State of Florida.
You can obtain your marriage license at any County Clerk’s office in Florida; however, the following is located near our chapel:
Charlotte County
350 East Marion Avenue
Punta Gorda, Florida, 33950
Phone 941-637-2240
Hours: 08:00 am - 4:00 pm