It’s no secret that weddings can be expensive. After all, there’s a reason the wedding industry is estimated to rake in roughly $57 billion a year! However, big, formal events aren’t everyone’s style or price point. Following the pandemic and the financial crisis in the US, many couples are looking for more intimate, budget-friendly wedding options. It just so happens that there are many beautiful elopement and micro wedding venues in Florida!

Modern Elopements

Elopements in today’s world are not  the same as what comes to perhaps your grandmother’s mind when the term is mentioned.  Many couples who opt for elopement still get married at a beautiful location dressed to the 9s.  The difference is the ceremony is just the two of them with an officiant or a witness or two.  Brides who have  chosen elopement note that there is less pressure with planning and feeling the need to satisfy guests. It’s budget-friendly, and a day for just the two of you.

What is a Micro Wedding?

Similarly, micro weddings are another economical option.  This is a fairly new concept that popped up following the pandemic due to guest restrictions. The term refers to a wedding with a much smaller scale guest list, usually consisting of 50 guests or less.  This is a fantastic option when you don’t want to break the bank but you still want to celebrate with your closest friends & family.  The smaller guest list can mean more freedom in terms of spending more on the things that matter most to you as a couple.

Maybe you want to put your money towards a bougie honeymoon instead of a pricey venue.  Does the thought of extensive planning and lengthy guest lists make you anxious?  No matter your reasoning for wanting a smaller wedding I have some suggestions for beautiful elopement or micro wedding venues! 

Elopement & Micro Wedding Venue Ideas

The Beach

This one goes without saying, but as a Floridian, I’d be a traitor not to mention it!  The beach is timeless.  You can’t go wrong with a sunrise or sunset ceremony on the white sands.  I mean, does it get any more romantic than that?

Congaree and Penn

This Jacksonville farm and restaurant combo is brimming with southern charm and endless possibility!  They have packages specifically for smaller scale weddings and elopements starting at $1000.  Say your vows beneath Spanish moss surrounded by your closest friends & family, or just the two of you!

Washington Oaks State Park

This is a favorite location of mine for engagement photos but it’s a beautiful hidden gem for weddings as well!  There are multiple attractions to choose from within the park for your ceremony.  Rose gardens, reflection pools, or the coquina rock beach all make for beautiful choices a little more off the beaten path and far more affordable than similar venues.  It’s a sight to behold!

Downtown St. Augustine

I recently shot an engagement session in downtown St. Augustine, and this would make for such a unique elopement location.  Beautiful architecture and views of the water combine for an unforgettable ceremony with an urban feel. 

I’m passionate about photographing weddings and the state I call home.  Because of this, in addition to my larger wedding offerings, I also offer hourly rates and elopement packages.  Your big day is worth capturing, no matter if there are 4 people present or 300!   

Interested in booking me for your elopement? Contact me here to get started!

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