💍 Can Florida Notaries Perform Weddings? 💒

Yes, Florida notaries can legally perform weddings! This unique privilege sets Florida apart from

many other states, where notaries are generally limited to administering oaths and witnessing signatures. If you’re considering a notary officiant for your special day, here’s everything you need to know.

Legal Authority of Florida Notaries

Under Florida Statutes §117.045, notaries public are authorized to solemnize the rites of matrimony. This means they can officiate weddings as long as the following conditions are met:

• The couple has obtained a valid Florida marriage license.

• The ceremony occurs within the state of Florida.

• The notary confirms the identities of both parties and their intent to marry.

Steps for a Florida Notary to Perform a Wedding

For a notary to officiate a wedding, they must follow these steps:

1. Verify the Marriage License: Ensure the couple has a valid Florida marriage license. The ceremony must take place within the license’s effective dates, which are usually between the 3-day waiting period and up to 60 days after issuance (unless waived).

2. Prepare the Ceremony: While Florida law doesn’t prescribe a specific script, the ceremony must include an exchange of vows indicating the couple’s consent to marry.

3. Complete the License: After the ceremony, the notary must complete the officiant section of the marriage license and ensure all required signatures are present.

4. Return the License: The signed license must be returned to the issuing clerk of court within 10 days.

Benefits of Choosing a Notary for Your Wedding

Couples often choose notaries for their weddings because of:

• Flexibility: Notaries can perform ceremonies at various locations, from beaches to backyards.

• Customization: Notaries can work with couples to create personalized ceremonies.

• Affordability: Compared to traditional officiants, notaries often offer competitive pricing.

Tips for Notaries Performing Weddings

If you’re a notary interested in officiating weddings, consider these tips:

1. Familiarize Yourself with the Law: Ensure you understand the legal requirements for solemnizing marriages in Florida.

2. Offer Additional Services: Consider bundling your officiant services with notarizations for prenuptial agreements or other wedding-related documents.

3. Market Your Services: Highlight your officiant services in your marketing materials to attract more clients.

Florida notaries have the unique privilege of officiating weddings, making them a great choice for couples seeking a versatile and affordable officiant. At Pho3nix Solutions, we’re proud to offer wedding officiant services alongside our notarial expertise. If you’re planning your wedding in the Tampa or St. Petersburg area, contact us to make your day unforgettable!