Miranda and Walker came to Key West for an intimate elopement. My best videographer buddy Christian Fernandez had the pleasure of being there to document their sweet love story at their destination wedding.
Both in the Air Force, this couple knows how to roll with the punches! We had initially planned on a Key West beach wedding, but after seeing the gorgeous courtyard area in their vacation rental, we decided to embrace the tropical gardens’ lush look. What a tropical paradise! It was a property I had photographed previously, so the family graciously helped move everything around in the courtyard, and the result was stress-free and the perfect venue for them to say their vows on their big day.
I think one of the best parts of this wedding was seeing how these two just lit up around each other. At every part of the day, you could see how happy they were to be getting married and how connected they were. They wanted a romantic elopement, an intimate ceremony; of course, they wanted to take advantage of photos by the ocean with palm trees and all that the Florida Keys has to offer.
After the ceremony, we did some portraits in the courtyard, then hit the beach for sunset photos. Once again, my trusty Mag Mods helped set the dramatic scene by providing the right pop of light to really set off the dramatic hues of another epic Key West Sunset.
Do you know what they say about the best-laid plans and all? Well, the sunrise photos we planned the next morning were squashed by 35-mile hour winds and rain, but once again, Miranda and Walker rolled with it.
We busted out a few bottles of champagne, popped the cork, embraced the wind, and the result was pure awesome! This kicked the ass of any champagne toast I have ever seen!
Photography: Michael Freas Photography
Videography: Christian J. Fernandez Wedding Films
Hair/MUA: Key West Wedding Hair & Makeup Artistry
Florals: Duarte Floral Design
In Key West, there is a special process that you must go through in order to get a marriage license. Eloping couples must make an appointment with the Clerk of Court at least three days in advance to have their paperwork processed. The office is open from Monday to Friday from 8 am to 5 pm.
You will need to present your identification and a witness in order to get the license. Eloping couples must be 18 years of age or older to get married without parental consent. If you are under 18, you will need one parent to sign a sworn affidavit before the Clerk of Court.
Couples who want an elopement may apply for their license at the Clerk of Court office, but they are not authorized to marry in any of the City or County Courthouses. Eloping couples must have their ceremony performed by an ordained minister or someone with a valid Florida marriage license.
Many venues and local rental properties offer Key West elopement packages or wedding packages that can help you save money.
The best time to elope in Key West is during the winter months. The weather is beautiful, and there are fewer tourists in town. Eloping couples should plan their ceremony at least three days in advance to make sure all of the paperwork is processed correctly. Eloping during the week is also a good idea, as weekends can be busy in Key West.
Key West Courthouse
500 W Whitehead St
Key West, FL 33040
(305) 292-3458
Marathon Beach
3117 Overseas Highway
Marathon, FL 33050
(305)289-1745
Upper Keys Government Center
88820 Overseas Highway
Plantation Key, FL 33070
(305) 852-7145
Clerk of Court
50 High Point Key
Plantation, FL 33070
If you are looking for an elopement photographer in Key West, I would love to hear from you! I specialize in intimate weddings and elopements and would love to help capture your special day.
I have deep knowledge of this beautiful island, and I can help you find out of the way places you just won’t find looking online. I would love to chat with you and see if I am the right photographer for your elopement!
