Planning Your Jacksonville Elopement: The Complete Guide

Dreaming of a spontaneous, intimate wedding? A Jacksonville elopement is a beautiful and stress-free way to say “I do.” Whether beach weddings are your thing, or you’re urban at heart, here’s your guide to eloping in Jax, including some popular spots that’ll give your photos that romantic vibe you’re going for.

Step 1: Legal Requirements for Eloping in Jacksonville

Let’s get all the boring stuff out of the way first. To legally elope in Jacksonville, Florida, you need:

Marriage License: Apply at the Duval County Clerk’s Office. There’s a three-day waiting period for Florida residents, but if you’re from out-of-state, you can get married the same day. Don’t forget to bring valid photo ID and pay the fee (around $86).
No Witnesses Required: In Florida, you don’t need witnesses to sign your marriage license—so it’s just the two of you and your officiant…and your fave photographer ;)
Officiant: You’ll need a certified officiant to make it official. You can hire one or have a friend ordained online.

Step 2: Location Ideas for Your Jacksonville Elopement

Jacksonville offers a range of stunning locations for elopements, from sun-kissed beaches to urban gems. Just make sure you check the local goings on to make sure there are no public events that’ll ruin the romantic vibe. I’m assuming the last thing you want at your elopement is hundreds of strangers running a marathon through your ceremony space…

Little Talbot Island State Park: For beach lovers, this unique spot offers pristine white sand and a serene backdrop for your vows. The sound of crashing ocean waves also makes those vows that much more private and intimate.
Cummer Museum Gardens: Includes lush, romantic gardens overlooking the St. Johns River. The historic architecture and art-filled grounds make it a timeless choice. One of the fancier options for sure.
Memorial Park: Located in Riverside, this riverfront park provides a gorgeous backdrop for photos. If you don’t mind a few onlookers, this is a great spot! And don’t worry, they won’t show up in the photos. The park is definitely big enough for everyone.
Jacksonville Arboretum & Gardens: Ideal for nature lovers. Just don’t schedule during mosquito season! There are a variety of backdrops here to choose from, including lots of secluded spots for the perfect intimate elopement.
Downtown Jacksonville: If you want an urban vibe, downtown offers cool murals, skyline views, and iconic spots like the Main Street Bridge for a modern elopement.

The possibilities are endless, too many to list here. But don’t worry, I give all of my couples an extensive list of location ideas (because gosh, I just love you guys so much!).

Step 3: Planning Your Elopement Ceremony

The beauty of eloping is that you can keep things simple or add your own touches. Want to personalize your ceremony? Set up a picnic, hold your dream bouquet, cut the cake with a bottle of champagne on the side.

Planning your elopement ceremony in Jacksonville allows you to be as simple or as detailed as you like. Whether it’s just you two or you want to add some flair, here’s how to create a magical day:

Personalized Vows: Writing your own vows can add an emotional touch to your ceremony. Take the time to craft words that reflect your relationship. The cool thing about eloping is that your vows are truly just between the two of you.
Photography: Hire an experienced photographer that you love. Ideally, they would know the area, and can be a resource to you before and during the elopement. Those memories aren’t going to capture themselves!
Florals: Add a touch of romance with a bouquet or floral backdrop. Don’t be afraid to splurge here. Just take a look at how Kuhn Flowers transformed this elopement space. Your photos will thank you, trust me.
Music: Consider hiring a musician to set the vibe. Unless you’re getting married at the beach, in which case, let the waves do their thang. Music can make your experience so much more emotional, in the best way.
Officiant: You’ll definitely need an officiant in the state of Florida. Consider if you want someone funny, serious, religious/spiritual, hands on, hands off, etc. They’ll be getting up close and personal with you during the ceremony so obviously, make sure you like them.
Decor & Styling: Even if you’re eloping, a little décor can make the moment feel extra special. Consider hiring a local stylist or planner to set up a small arch or decorative accents.
Hair & Makeup: Definitely treat yourself to a little grooming before the wedding – whether this involves going to a salon or barber, or having someone come to you. It’s a special day, why not give yourself a little present? You can focus on relaxing while someone else takes care of making sure you look your best.
The Ceremony: Add personal touches like your favorite song for the walk down the aisle or incorporate a special family heirloom like wearing your grandmother’s jewelry or including a family quilt in your ceremony to make your elopement feel meaningful and unique.

Step 4: Including Family Members in Your Jacksonville Elopement

While elopements are often private, that doesn’t mean you can’t involve loved ones in meaningful ways! Here are some creative ideas to make your family feel included, even with an intimate ceremony. *Disclaimer: If you’re eloping specifically to avoid involving your family, please skip this step.

Virtual Attendance: Set up a live stream or Zoom so family members can watch the ceremony in real time. This keeps them involved without needing to be physically present. Great option for those planning a destination elopement.
Post-Elopement Celebration: Plan a small family dinner or gathering afterward at a local restaurant where you can celebrate together. Toasts are probably inevitable. Especially if champagne is involved.
Personal Notes: Ask family members to write letters or record video messages that you can read or watch together during your elopement ceremony. This way, their words are part of the day, even if they’re not there. Plus, you’ll have a beautiful keepsake to enjoy for years to come.
Involve Close Family: If you prefer to have family present, you can invite just a few close family members to stand as witnesses, deliver a reading, or even perform a song or prayer.

Step 5: Celebrate Afterwards

After the ceremony, celebrate with a “reception” at your favorite restaurant. You can invite loved ones or have an intimate meal, your first one as a married couple. Obviously, dessert is a must. Bonus tip: tell your server the good news and they might even write “congratulations” on the plate in strawberry syrup. Hooray!

So there you have it, friends. Everything you need to get started with planning your Jacksonville elopement with ease. Ready to elope? Have more planning questions for yours truly? Get in touch and preserve these memories forever!