How to Elope in Melbourne, Florida

The Ultimate Guide for Lovers Planning to Elope in Melbourne, Florida

Eloping is becoming an increasingly popular choice for couples who want a more intimate and adventurous wedding experience. If you’re considering eloping, look no further than the charming and scenic Melbourne, Florida. Known for its beautiful beaches, lush parks, and vibrant downtown area, Melbourne offers the perfect blend of natural beauty and urban charm. This guide is designed to help you plan the ultimate elopement in this coastal gem.

Choosing the Right Time of Year & Location to Elope in Melbourne, Florida

When planning to elope in Melbourne, Florida, one of the first questions you should ask yourselves is “When do we want to elope?” Florida generally has great weather all year round, but it can be unpredictable during the summer and fall. Each season in Melbourne has its own unique perks and considerations.

Melbourne Seasonal Elopement Information

Spring (March-May):
Springtime in Melbourne is beautiful with blooming flowers and pleasant temperatures. This season offers a vibrant and colorful backdrop for your elopement, but be prepared for occasional rain showers.

Summer (June-August):
If you don’t mind the heat, summer elopements offer extended daylight hours and late sunsets. However, this is also peak tourist season, and the potential for heavy rain and storms increases as hurricane season starts in June.

Fall (September-November):
Fall in Melbourne is warm and less humid, with fewer tourists than in summer. While hurricanes can still occur until the end of November, the likelihood of daily rain diminishes, making this a lovely time for an outdoor elopement.

Winter (December-February):
Melbourne’s winters are mild and perfect for outdoor ceremonies. The city’s holiday decorations provide a magical atmosphere for December and January elopements. Keep in mind that the sun sets earlier in winter, so plan your ceremony accordingly.

Melbourne Elopement Location Guide (MAPPED BELOW)

Okay, so you picked out the perfect time of year to elope in Melbourne, Florida, now the next big question is where. The first thing you should ask yourself is what kind of vibe you want your elopement to have. The location you choose is more than just a pretty background, it’s the entire atmosphere of your elopement. Foliage, rocks, water, etc. in the background will determine the overall look of the images. Do you want simple, classic beach photos? Are you going for a modern, downtown elopement vibe? Do you want it to feel like a tropical, adventure elopement? Choosing the right location is crucial for setting the vibe of your elopement. Whether you prefer a beach setting, lush gardens, or a historic site, Melbourne has it all.

Where to Elope in Melbourne, Florida

Ryckman Park:
This beautiful park offers a serene riverside setting with large oak trees, open green spaces, and a charming gazebo. It’s perfect for a nature-filled elopement.

Melbourne Beach Pier:
For stunning views of the Indian River Lagoon and a picturesque setting, consider eloping on the historic Melbourne Beach Pier. Early morning or late afternoon are ideal times to avoid crowds and capture stunning light.

Erna Nixon Park:
This lush, 53-acre nature preserve features winding boardwalks through beautiful hammocks and wetlands. It’s an ideal location for couples who love nature and want a tranquil, scenic backdrop for their elopement.

Gleason Park:
Located in nearby Indian Harbour Beach, Gleason Park offers a charming lake, lush gardens, and picturesque walking paths. The park’s oak trees and water views create a romantic atmosphere for your ceremony.

Historic Downtown Melbourne:
For a more urban and eclectic vibe, consider eloping in Historic Downtown Melbourne. With its vibrant street art, unique shops, and charming cafés, downtown offers numerous spots for capturing beautiful and memorable photos.

James H. Nance Park:
Situated along the Atlantic Ocean, this beach park offers a classic Florida beach setting for your elopement. The park’s dunes, sea oats, and wide sandy beach provide a stunning backdrop.

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Should We Include Guests in Our Elopement?

First, remember that your decision is yours (and your partner’s) to make, and whatever you decide should be a choice you make together and without any coercion or added stress from others. There are numerous factors that make the decision to elope solo or with others a tough one. Weddings can be expensive and if you’d prefer to spend your budget on something special for just yourselves, you are valid. Even planning a small gathering of 20 people requires permitting (for beach weddings) or a venue + reception location, food, décor, travel costs, it all can start to add up.

Deciding to elope solo or with others can be tough. Weddings can be expensive, so spending your budget on yourselves is valid. Even small gatherings need permits, venues, food, décor, and travel costs, which add up.

If you and your partner are ready, I recommend an intimate ceremony for just the two of you. This way, the day is completely yours to do whatever, wherever you want. But, if you can’t imagine getting married without family or friends but don’t want a big wedding, consider a small ceremony of no more than 20 people. Book your reception later in the day to allow time for photos after the ceremony. Deciding how to elope is a huge decision, as it marks the start of your lives together.

If you have questions, comments, concerns, what ifs, what abouts, etc.; please do not hesitate to contact me and I am happy to walk you through all of it.

Choosing the Best Photography Package for Your Elopement

Eloping should not break the bank and it’s important for you to select the package that makes the most sense financially. If you’re eloping in a courthouse and want a simple, quick session then 1 hour is perfect, but if you are wanting to do multiple looks at multiple locations 3+ hours is definitely needed. If you plan to host a small ceremony with guests, I recommend 4+ hours to ensure there is plenty of time for ceremony, family, and couples photos. No matter what kind of elopement you choose, we will curate a package that is just right for you.

Choosing the Rest of Your Vendors

If you decide to elope with a small ceremony, book a venue, or even want to go to the courthouse, you may need to do some planning. It’s important to book vendors as early as possible to lock in your date. This goes for a photographer, officiant, courthouse appointment, venue, reception, florals, décor, permits, etc., whatever applies to your big day. If you need recommendations, I am always happy to help you find the perfect vendors for your big day.

Choosing Where to Get Married “Legally”

Getting married is not the most complicated process, but it is a process nonetheless. If you want to be legally married before the elopement session, schedule your appointment at the clerks office beforehand. If you plan to get married on the day of and want pictures after it is completely possible. You’ll want to schedule an appointment at the courthouse in whatever city/county you plan to elope in. In order to get legally married in Florida you need a valid photo ID and social security card. If you complete a Florida pre-marriage course, the cost of the marriage license goes down significantly and you don’t have the three day waiting period to get married. After you get your marriage license, you have 60 days to say “I Do.”

To get legally elope in Melbourne, Florida you’ll need a marriage license from the Brevard County Clerk of Court. Here’s what you need to know:

Brevard County Clerk of Court:
700 S. Park Avenue, Titusville, FL 32780 | 321-637-5413

Bring valid photo IDs and social security cards. Completing a Florida pre-marriage course can reduce the cost of the license and waive the three-day waiting period. After obtaining your license, you have 60 days to get married.

Packing and Preparing for your Melbourne, Florida Elopement

Before packing for your Florida Elopement, think about the vibe is that you’re going for and the location you chose. Is it coastal, boho, modern, casual, etc…? Once you know what kind of vibe you’re going for, you can narrow down on a dress/outfits. There is no rule that says you have to wear white to elope, wear whatever makes YOU feel the best. After you pack your dress I would next suggest: bathing suits, sunscreen, bug spray, honeymoon outfits, and outfits for your engagement session if we are doing one before your elopement. I would also suggest packing comfortable shoes to walk between locations, trust me your feet will thank you.

On your elopement day, it is so important to eat a well balanced meal, and drink tons of water. It can get hot in Florida and it’s crucial you stay hydrated on your big day. Depending on the location, I will drop a pin exactly where parking is or send directions to you. Remember it’s totally okay to be nervous, not everyone has their picture taken everyday! I strive for the process to be a seamless and fun experience from start to finish. My goal as your Florida elopement photographer is to deliver a lasting collection of images that feel authentic, real, and 100% you. We will laugh, have fun, and spend the day celebrating and capturing your love story.

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Honeymooning in Melbourne

After you elope in Melbourne, Florida, Melbourne offers numerous romantic spots for your honeymoon. Here are some of the most charming destinations:

Romantic Melbourne Honeymoon Activities

Downtown Melbourne:
Stroll through the charming downtown area, visit local shops, and enjoy dining at some of the best restaurants in town.

Sebastian Inlet State Park:
Spend a day relaxing on the beach, fishing, or exploring the beautiful trails at this scenic state park.

Brevard Zoo:
For a unique and fun experience, visit the Brevard Zoo and enjoy a variety of wildlife exhibits and activities.

Canova Beach Park:
Enjoy a peaceful day by the ocean at this beach park, known for its beautiful views and serene atmosphere.

Indian River Lagoon:
Explore the natural beauty of the Indian River Lagoon with kayaking, paddleboarding, or a scenic boat tour.

I hope this guide helps you plan your dream elopement in Melbourne. If you’d like me to capture your special day, please fill out my booking form!

I hope this guide will help you through the elopement process in Florida. I am so lucky that I get to capture love stories here in this beautiful state. If you want me to tag along and capture your Florida elopement, please fill out my booking form!