How to Elope in Tampa

How does an intimate sunset I do followed by a beach picnic or brewery tour sound, you can even invite your closest friends and family, or horseback riding on the beach, recreate your first date, get matching tattoos, go to a concert and rock out as newlyweds for the first time, rent a boat and sail into the sunset sippin that bubbly, renting a cute airbnb and hire a chef to cook you dinner.

Tampa has become THE spot for adventurous couples to elope to with the combo of tropical weather and gorgeous white sand beaches gives couples the feeling of a destination elopement without having to bust out their passports. So let’s dive in on how to elope in Tampa.

When To Elope in Tampa

It is warm and beautiful location buuuut we do get cold fronts in the winter months where it can get below 50 degrees, tropical also means buggy and there is also hurricane season to consider. Have no fear, let me break it down for you so you can choose the perfect date for your elopement!

Heres the scoop:

Summer – (June-August) expect temps in the 80s-90s, mosquito heaven, humidity bringing the frizz, and without a doubt always expect rain in the afternoon or right before sunset. Summer months are rough around here but if your heart is set on summer then a sunrise elopement would be the best or if you’re a risk taker, the sunsets are epic after a good shower!

Fall – (September-November) the heat is starting to settle but still warm where you could expect 80s and the chance of a storm is less also school is back in session so it tends to be less crowded.

Winter (December-February) aka the best time to elope in Tampa the temps are in the 60s-70s keepin’ it nice and comfy and not as humid, chances of rain lessen and the bugs aren’t as annoying.

Spring – (March-May) temps are starting back up into the 70s-80s and chances of rain starts going up in late spring but humidity isn’t terrible just yet but there are some days, and the mosquitos are starting to say hello again BUT spring would be my second choice when figuring out how to elope in Tampa.

Just Keep In Mind…

A few things to know and consider is that hurricane season starts in June and goes all the way til November which means if you are choosing a summer or late fall elopement I would back your travel up with travel insurance! Also, if you hate crowds the best time to plan your elopement would be during off-season, choosing a weekday and avoiding holidays.

Need more help with planning and brainstorming the perfect time? Let’s do it together and let’s chitty chat!

How To Elope in Tampa

When you go to the Hillsborough County Clerks office you will need a few things.

• Both parties must be 18 years of age and both must be present.
• A valid driver’s license, state identification card, or passport.
• Provide your social security number (it is not necessary to bring in the social security card)

Pretty easy right?

To save time you can apply online with the Hillborough County Clerks office for your marriage license. If you are a non- Florida resident you can pick it up the same day you plan to sign it and if you are a Florida resident there is a 3 day waiting period and the fee for the marriage license is $86. Online applications require credit card payment and in-person applications accept cash, money order, traveler’s check, credit card, or personal check. Fun fact, you don’t need witnesses to sign your marriage certificate in the state of Florida.

Once you have your marriage license, you can elope anywhere in Florida within 60 days annnnd a tip would be to check with the applicable Clerk of Court (if getting married outside of Hillborough County) before making any plans so you know you are fully prepped and set!

Where to Elope In Tampa

Tampa has SO many options so it truly depends on the vibe you really want. So let’s break it down really quick. There are several different districts to Tampa providing different environments and activities. To learn more about the districts visit here.

If you are looking for an epic sunset on the beach to say yes to forever on well just 25 mins away theres Clearwater Beach that is known for its sunsets or you can find a spot within the city in the South Shore area. Beach and park options are endless here!

As for activities…if urban and big city is your flava then Downtown Tampa is calling your name!

Best place for some history? Ybor and Downtown Tampa have it goin on.

Bar hoppin is always fun to do after saying I Do (theres a rhyme for ya!) and Soho is THE spot.

Want to keep it more chill and enjoy some tasty brews and yummy eats at local breweries? Seminole Heights, Ybor, and Downtown Tampa! Angry Chair Brewing is one of my favs!

Lookin for some thrill? Bushe Gardens is 13 mins from downtown!

Wanna rent a boat or jet skis?.. Lets!

Lots of options can be overwhelming thats why it’s always best to go to the experts, like a Tampa elopement photographer liiike myself 🙂 where you not only get help with planning your epic I do but help with figuring out where to go and what to do and some locations require permits for photography! No matter the vision, lets make it happen. Ready to start planning… let’s do this!

What to Bring To Your Elopement

Part of having an amazing elopement requires some planning on your end! Heres a few things to bring:

• Marriage License
• Snacks
• Water
• Bug Spray
• Back pack / bag if you plan to bring a change of clothes or just need a place to keep personal items together while you adventure
• Towels- especially if getting into the water is involved
• Sunscreen
• Pen
• Jacket/Rain coat/Umbrella -depending on the season of your elopement

Need examples?

You may be thinking what in the world does elopement look like? Here are some examples for timelines! The best thing about an elopement is you can do whatever YOU want. You define the adventure!

4 Hour Elopement Timeline

Hour 1: Detail shots, getting ready photos, and a first look
Hour 2-3: Ceremony + short fun adventure as Mr and Mrs!
Hour 4: Sunset portraits

8 Hour Elopement Timeline

Hour 1: Detail shots, getting ready photos, first look
Hour 2-6: Ceremony + half day adventure as Mr and Mrs!
Hour 7: Sunset portraits
Hour 8: Din din and drinks!

12 Hour Elopement Timeline

Hour 1: Detail shots, getting ready photos, first look.
Hour 2-5: Ceremony, mini break, first adventure at first location as Mr and Mrs!
Hour 6-12: Adventure at second location followed by sunset portraits

Ready to Elope in Tampa?!

Eloping sounds fun as hell but you’re still overwhelmed with the details and you haaate planning well hi, hello my name is Kathryn but call me Kathy and I am here to help you with all the details, logistics and give you all the recommendations. Hiring me as your elopement photographer alsoooo means you get a planner! 2 for 1 – sweet deal, I know! THIS is what I do best. Prep, plan, and have a kick ass time with you and my camera in hand capturing your love and the joy and adventure of becoming a Mrs. Ready to ditch the table and seating charts? Give me a holla and lets plan the most bad ass day yet!