One Tuesday morning, out of the blue, we got a call from Gianluca. He was visiting Key West from Rome when he and Daniella decided to get married that very same day. We met them at the courthouse, where they’d already picked up their marriage license, then brought them straight to the beach for their ceremony. Everyone had a wonderful time, despite the language barrier. Their English, honestly, was better than our Italian. Congratulations, Daniella and Gianluca.
Stories like theirs aren’t as rare as you’d think. A same day wedding in Key West is genuinely possible, and here’s exactly how it works.
Why Same Day Weddings Work in Florida
Florida doesn’t require a waiting period for out of state couples, no blood tests, and no residency requirement. Once you have your marriage license in hand, you’re legally free to marry immediately. That’s very different from many states, where a waiting period of several days is built into the process, and it’s a big part of why spontaneous, same day weddings like Gianluca and Daniella’s are possible here at all.
What You Actually Need to Do
- Get your marriage license. Head to the Monroe County Courthouse with valid photo ID. If you’re a Florida resident, note that in state applicants without the state’s premarital course do face a three day waiting period, so out of state visitors actually have the easier path here.
- Choose your ceremony location. A beach, a garden, or a spot that means something to you, whatever fits your timeline that day.
- Confirm officiant availability. Same day requests depend on what’s open on our schedule, so a quick call as early in the day as possible gives you the best shot.
- Show up and get married. Once the license and officiant are confirmed, the ceremony itself can happen within hours.
Is a Same Day Wedding Right for You?
A same day wedding isn’t for every couple, and that’s completely fine. But if you’re already in Key West, already sure of each other, and just want to make it official without months of planning, it’s a genuinely real option here in a way it isn’t in most places. Some of the most joyful ceremonies we’ve officiated have come together with almost no advance notice at all.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can we really get married the same day in Key West?
Yes, for out of state couples especially. Florida has no waiting period once your marriage license is issued, so a same day ceremony is genuinely possible with the right planning.
Do we need an appointment to get our marriage license?
Requirements can change, so it’s worth calling the Monroe County Courthouse ahead of time to confirm current hours and any documentation needed, but same day issuance is standard for out of state applicants.
Is there a waiting period for Florida residents?
Yes. Florida residents who haven’t completed the state’s premarital course face a three day waiting period, unlike out of state visitors who can marry immediately.
Can Aaron’s Key West Weddings officiate on short notice?
Often, yes, depending on availability. Call as early as possible on the day you’re hoping to marry, and we’ll let you know honestly what we can make work.
Conclusion
A same day wedding in Key West isn’t a loophole or a gimmick. It’s simply how Florida’s marriage laws work, and for the right couple, it makes for one of the most spontaneous, joyful days imaginable.
If you’re considering something similar, Aaron’s Key West Weddings can help you figure out what’s possible, even on short notice. Call 305-295-0137 or complete our contact form to see what we can do for your date.
