Frequently Asked Questions

Everything you need to know about eloping with ElopMe. Can't find your answer? Reach out and we'll help.

General

An elopement is an intimate wedding ceremony, typically with just the couple and a small number of guests (if any). Modern elopements are intentional celebrations of your relationship on your terms, free from the pressure and expense of a traditional wedding.

Yes, elopements are completely legal. Our officiants are legally registered in every state where we operate, and your marriage is recognized the same as any traditional wedding. We also guide you through the marriage license process for your chosen location.

Absolutely. While some couples choose to elope with just the two of them, many of our venues accommodate up to 20 or more guests. Your elopement planner can help coordinate guest logistics, seating, and even livestreaming for those who cannot attend in person.

We recommend booking at least 4 to 6 weeks in advance, though we have pulled off elopements in as little as one week. Popular destinations and peak seasons (June through October) fill up faster, so earlier booking gives you the best venue selection.

We combine a dedicated personal planner with 50+ vetted local vendors in Miami. From ceremony arches and decor to photography, videography, and live music — we handle all the coordination so you never have to chase down a single vendor yourself. Plus, 0-interest payments with Afterpay.

Yes, all of our packages are available for vow renewals. The process is the same as booking an elopement. Since vow renewals do not require a marriage license, the legal paperwork step is skipped, making the planning even simpler.

Packages

Every ElopMe package includes a dedicated personal elopement planner, ceremony planning & coordination, marriage license guidance, a personalized ceremony script, and 0-interest payments with Afterpay. Larger packages add photography, florals, decor, videography, and more.

Yes. Each package serves as a starting point. You can add photography, videography, florals, hair and makeup, or additional coverage hours to any package. Your planner will walk you through all available add-ons and pricing during your initial consultation.

Positano includes an officiant, two hours of photography (125+ images), bouquet and boutonniere, champagne, background music, and a planner. Portofino adds a ceremony arch with fresh flowers, ceremony decor (lanterns, candles, rose petals), and up to 10 chairs.

Bellagio is our ultimate elopement package — everything we offer in one experience. It includes up to four hours of photography, cinematic videography with drone footage, a four-post canopy with chandelier, live musician, professional hair & makeup, styled food table, day-of coordinator, and a personalized adventure itinerary with permit coordination.

Photo counts depend on your package: Ravello delivers 75+ images within 15 business days, Positano, Portofino, and Sorrento deliver 125+ images within 22 business days, and Bellagio delivers 175+ images within 5 weeks. All images are professionally edited and delivered via an online gallery.

Both include a professional officiant, ceremony script, and photography. Positano adds champagne, a bouquet and boutonniere, and background music. Ravello is the streamlined ceremony + photos package for couples who want to keep it simple.

Legal & Payments

Yes. Your planner provides step-by-step guidance on obtaining a marriage license in your chosen state, including which office to visit, required documents, waiting periods, and any residency requirements. Note that we guide the process but the couple must apply in person.

Yes, we offer 0-interest payments with Afterpay on all packages. You can split your total into manageable payments leading up to your ceremony date. Details are provided during your consultation.

Cancellations made 60 or more days before your ceremony date forfeit the deposit only. Cancellations made 30-59 days before forfeit 50% of the total package price. Cancellations made fewer than 30 days before are non-refundable. You may reschedule one time at no additional cost within 6 months of your original date. Full details are in our Service Agreement.

We accept Zelle (no processing fee), ACH bank transfers (no processing fee), Afterpay (0-interest installments, no processing fee), and all major credit and debit cards (4% processing fee applies). You receive a receipt for every transaction.

Witness requirements vary by state. Florida does not require witnesses for the marriage ceremony itself, though having them is common. Your planner will confirm the requirements and can arrange witnesses if needed.

A 50% non-refundable deposit is required to secure your ceremony date. The remaining balance is due 30 days before your ceremony. 0-interest payment plans are available via Afterpay.

Destinations

We currently serve Miami, Florida with a curated selection of vetted venues across the city — from beachfront locations to lush garden estates and stylish urban settings.

Absolutely. During your consultation, your planner will discuss your vision, budget, guest count, and time of year to recommend the best destination and venue options. We can also share photo galleries and virtual tours to help you decide.

We provide guidance on permit requirements for all packages and can coordinate permit applications on your behalf where included in your selected package. Many outdoor and public venues require permits, and your planner will walk you through the process and requirements for your specific venue. Permit fees are the responsibility of the client.

Your planner can provide curated hotel recommendations near your venue and restaurant suggestions for post-ceremony celebrations. While we do not book flights or hotels directly, your planner advises on travel timing and logistics.

We currently focus exclusively on Miami, Florida. This allows us to maintain our high standards for vendor quality and legal compliance. If we expand to additional destinations, we will announce it through our newsletter and social channels.

Miami is a year-round elopement destination. The dry season from November through April offers the most comfortable weather with lower humidity and minimal rain. Summer months are warm and lush, with dramatic golden-hour light perfect for photos. Your planner can advise on the best timing based on weather patterns and crowd levels.

Planning & Ceremony

Your planner always has a backup plan. For outdoor venues, we identify covered alternatives or indoor options nearby. If conditions are unsafe (lightning, extreme wind), we work with you to reschedule at no additional cost. Many couples find that overcast skies make for the most dramatic photos.

Yes, and we encourage it. Your officiant will work with you on the ceremony structure and can provide vow-writing prompts and examples if you need inspiration. You can also choose from traditional vow templates if you prefer.

A typical elopement ceremony lasts 15 to 30 minutes, though there is no strict time limit. Your officiant paces the ceremony to feel natural, not rushed. Photography sessions extend beyond the ceremony itself, so plan for your total package time (1 to 4 hours depending on package).

Whatever makes you feel like yourselves. Some couples go formal with a gown and suit, others wear jeans and boots. For adventure elopements, we recommend layers and sturdy footwear. Your planner can share outfit inspiration galleries and practical tips for your specific venue and season.

Many of our venues are pet-friendly, and dogs in particular are welcome at most outdoor locations. Your planner will confirm pet policies for your specific venue and can suggest pet-sitters nearby if your furry friend needs a break during photos.

Your dedicated planner is your single point of contact from booking through ceremony day. They coordinate all vendors, manage your timeline and itinerary, handle permit paperwork, confirm venue logistics, provide marriage license guidance, and are available by phone, email, or text throughout the planning process.

Still have questions?

We're happy to help. Reach out and we'll get back to you within 24 hours.

Contact Us