Tying the Knot in Sarasota: How a Florida Notary Can Perform Your Wedding Ceremony

In my 20 years as a Florida mobile notary, I have traveled to hospitals, title companies, and private homes. I have seen thousands of documents. But the most joyful part of my job is something many people don’t even realize a notary can do. In Florida, a notary public is legally authorized to solemnize marriage. This means I can perform your wedding ceremony and sign your marriage license to make it official.

Florida is one of only a few states in the country that grants this power to notaries. You do not need a judge or a religious leader to start your life together. Whether you are planning a small backyard gathering in Sarasota or a quick ceremony at a local park, a mobile notary offers a simple and flexible way to tie the knot. This guide will explain how the process works, what the law requires, and how I can help you get married without the stress of a traditional venue.

Understanding the Role of a Florida Notary in Weddings

Under Florida Statute 117.045, a notary public has the authority to solemnize the rites of matrimonial contract. This is a formal way of saying we can officiate weddings. For many couples, this is the perfect solution. It allows for a civil ceremony that is recognized by the state but doesn't require a trip to the courthouse or a religious building.

As a notary, my job is to ensure the legal requirements are met. I verify the identities of the couple, witness the exchange of vows, and complete the paperwork. Because I am a mobile notary, I come to you. You choose the location that feels right, and I handle the official side of things.

Why Choose a Notary Officiant?

There are several reasons why couples in Florida choose a notary over a traditional officiant.

• Flexibility: You are not tied to a specific building or schedule.
• Simple Transitions: If you just want a quick "signature and "I do," a notary is the most efficient choice.
• Cost: Legal fees for solemnizing a marriage are capped at a reasonable rate.
• Privacy: Many people prefer a quiet, private moment over a large production.

In my two decades of experience, I have found that couples value the ease of this process. It takes the pressure off and lets the focus stay on the commitment being made.

Steps to Get Married Using a Florida Notary

Before we can stand together and perform the ceremony, there are specific legal steps you must follow. A notary cannot simply show up and marry you without the proper state-issued paperwork in hand.

Step 1: Obtain Your Marriage License

You must apply for a marriage license at any Florida Clerk of the Circuit Court. You and your partner must both appear in person. You will need to bring current, unexpired government-issued photo identification. This could be a Florida driver license, a US passport, or a military ID.

The license is valid for 60 days from the date it is issued. You must have the ceremony within that window. Once you have the physical license, keep it in a safe place and bring it to our meeting. I cannot perform the ceremony without seeing the original license.

Step 2: The Three-Day Waiting Period

Florida law has a three-day waiting period for Florida residents. This means if you live here, you cannot get married the same day you get your license. You have to wait three days before the ceremony can take place.

There are two ways to skip this waiting period:

1. Both parties complete a state-approved premarital preparation course and present the certificate to the Clerk.
2. You are both non-residents of Florida. Out-of-state couples can get their license and get married the same day.

Step 3: The Ceremony and Vows

Once the waiting period has passed, we meet at your chosen location. Florida law does not require a specific script for the wedding, but there must be a formal exchange of vows. You must both state that you take each other as spouses.

After the vows are exchanged, I will sign and seal the marriage license. As your notary, I am certifying that I performed the ceremony and that both parties are entering into the marriage willingly.

The Legal Requirements and Fees

When it comes to the legal side of things, Florida is very specific about what a notary can and cannot charge, and how we must handle the paperwork. Always make sure your officiant is following the North Star of Florida Statutes.

Statutory Fees

Florida Statute 117.05(2) sets the maximum fee for a notary performing a marriage ceremony. The fee for solemnizing a marriage is $30.

However, because I am a mobile notary, there are often travel fees involved. Travel fees are not capped by the state, but they must be disclosed to you in writing and agreed upon before we meet. These fees cover my time and transportation to your specific location in Sarasota or the surrounding areas. I believe in being transparent so there are never any surprises on your big day.

Identification is Mandatory

Even though I am officiating a wedding, I am still acting as a notary. This means I must verify the identity of both people getting married. According to Florida Statute 117.05(5), I must see a current, unexpired government-issued photo ID.

If for some reason you do not have an ID, Florida law allows for the sworn statement of one credible witness. This witness must personally know you, must be present at the ceremony, and cannot be named in the marriage license.

Filing the Paperwork

After the ceremony is over and I have signed the license, it must be returned to the Clerk of Court that issued it. Florida law requires the officiant to return the license within 10 days of the ceremony. This is a critical step because it is how your marriage is officially recorded in the state’s public records. I take this responsibility seriously to ensure your marriage is legally recognized.

Choosing the Right Location in Sarasota

One of the best things about using a mobile notary is the freedom of location. Sarasota offers some of the most beautiful backdrops for a simple ceremony. Since I travel to you, the possibilities are nearly endless.

• Public Parks: Sarasota has many public spaces that are perfect for a quick, outdoor ceremony.
• Your Home: Many couples prefer the intimacy of their own living room or backyard.
• The Beach: A sunset ceremony on the sand is a classic Florida choice.
• Care Facilities or Hospitals: Sometimes a wedding needs to happen in a specific location due to health or mobility reasons. I have performed many signings in these environments.

As a mobile notary with over 20 years of experience, I am comfortable in all of these settings. I can meet you at your home, your office, or a local landmark. My goal is to make the process as convenient as possible for you.

Frequently Asked Questions About Notary Weddings

People often have questions when they find out a notary can perform their wedding. Here are some of the most common things I hear.

Do we need witnesses?

Florida law does not actually require witnesses to sign the marriage license. While there are spaces on the license for two witnesses to sign, it is not a legal requirement for the marriage to be valid. However, many couples still choose to have friends or family sign as a sentimental gesture.

Can you marry us if we aren't Florida residents?

Yes. Florida is a popular destination for weddings. If you are from another state or country, you can get a marriage license here and get married immediately, as the three-day waiting period only applies to Florida residents.

Does the notary provide the license?

No. You must get the marriage license from the Clerk of Court. A notary cannot issue the license; we only "solemnize" it by performing the ceremony and signing the document after the fact.

Can you give us legal advice about prenuptial agreements?

No. Under Florida Statute 117.107, a notary who is not an attorney is prohibited from giving legal advice. I cannot tell you how a marriage will affect your taxes, your estate, or your legal rights. I am there strictly to perform the ceremony and notarize the document.

The Importance of Experience

When you are looking for someone to handle your wedding paperwork, experience matters. I have been a mobile notary in Florida for over 20 years. I understand the nuances of Florida Statute Chapter 117. I know how to check an ID correctly, how to fill out the certificate so it isn't rejected by the Clerk, and how to handle the pressure of an important event.

A wedding is a legal contract, but it is also a personal milestone. You want someone who is professional and punctual. Because I offer same-day and after-hours appointments, I can often accommodate couples who are on a tight schedule or who decided to elope at the last minute.

I take pride in serving my community. Whether I am notarizing a power of attorney at a hospital or officiating a wedding on a balcony, I bring the same level of care and attention to detail. My 20 years in the field have taught me that every signing is unique, and every couple deserves a smooth and legal start to their marriage.

Ready to get this handled?

If you have your Florida marriage license and are ready to make it official, I am here to help. Whether you want a quiet ceremony at home or a quick signing at a local coffee shop, I can travel to your location and provide professional officiating services. Let’s make sure your paperwork is handled correctly so you can focus on your future together.

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