Tuesday, January 27, 2009

Weddings in Naples


I have just returned from fulfilling a dream come true. I officiated a wedding in the Disney wedding pavilion at Walt Disney World in Orlando. Here at Celebration we receive numerous requests on a weekly basis about how to get married in Florida. So, in this blog, we will try to help. For those who dream of a romantic outdoor wedding, Naples Florida beckons. With its endless sunshine, warm weather year 'round and beautiful beaches, Naples is the perfect place to hold nuptials. Our favorite location is at the south gazebo at Lowdermilk Beach park (see the photo above). Follow these simple guidelines to be on your way to wedded bliss.

To get married in Florida, visiting couples need only go together to the nearest clerk of the circuit court office to obtain a marriage license. Marriage licenses are good for 60 days. The standard fee is $96.00, which can typically be paid with cash or by charge or personal check.Florida residents must wait three days to get a license. However residents who can provide documentation showing they completed a state-approved marriage preparation course within the year don't have to wait the three days.

The pastors at Celebration use the "Pre-Marriage Awareness Inventory" with topics including conflict management, financial and parenting responsibilities. As a bonus, residents who take the course get a reduction of $34.50 off the license fee. And it's not necessary for residents to obtain licenses from their home county. As soon as a license is obtained, a wedding ceremony can be performed anywhere in the state. To obtain a marriage license, U.S citizens must provide their social security numbers and photo identification, such as driver's licenses. International visitors must bring passports, or naturalization or immigration numbers.

Also, people who have been married previously must provide the date of divorce, annulment or spouse's death.With a few exceptions, both the bride and groom are required to be 18. Florida doesn't require blood tests or medical exams. Contact the local clerk of the circuit court for further information. Also. at Celebration, we can provide wonderful music and photography services. You can call the church office at 239-649-1588.





1 comment:

Anonymous said...

Thank you for a great resource for getting married in Florida. Could you please post your fees for officiating/photography/music? Thank you. Tracy