Licensed to Wed in Sarasota County

Let your personalities shine through with a wedding venue as unique as the two of you. Choose a barefoot wedding on the white-sands of Siesta Beach, an all-natural ceremony in the lush wild splendor of Myakka River State Park, a ceremony in an elegant and historic venue such as the Sarasota Opera House, or one of several other options for your special day.

Planning a Wedding in Sarasota County

Sarasota County happily welcomes and recognizes marriages of all couples. Apply in person or at a self-service kiosk at the Clerk of Court at 2000 Main St., Sarasota, or 4004 South Tamiami Trail, Venice. Fees apply, and for more information please visit the Sarasota Clerk of Circuit Court. Here are a few more important things to know:

• Complete an eMarriage Application.

• Read the Family Law & Healthy Marriage Handbook and sign it. You can download it in English or Spanish or view a copy of it at the clerk's office.

• Bring driver license, passport, Florida identification card or military identification card. Previously married applicants should be prepared to provide marriage end date.

• Marriage licenses for non-Florida residents are valid day of purchase. Florida residents’ licenses are valid three days after purchase.

• The State of Florida is one of six states that authorize notaries public to officiate at weddings.

• Permits through Sarasota County Parks, Recreation and Natural Resources are strongly recommended for beachside weddings. This ensures the space you want for your special day. Purchase at 941-861-9930. 

Sarasota Wedding Venues & Ideas

Need a theme to spark some creative wedding inspiration? Let us make a few suggestions:

Historic Wedding Venues

For a celebration surrounded by history and Old Florida charm, Sarasota offers one-of-a-kind settings. Bay Preserve features a carriage house, mansion, historic boathouse and dock, while The Ringling offers distinctive venues including the Museum of Art Courtyard, with its classical architecture and statuary, and the historic Ca’ d’Zan, where couples can exchange vows overlooking Sarasota Bay.

Garden Weddings

Wed under ancient, sprawling banyan trees or a sophisticated gazebo overlooking the bay at Marie Selby Botanical Gardens.

Outdoor & Nature-Inspired Weddings

One of the largest Florida State Parks, Myakka River State Park, naturally makes for a serene environment for a wedding.

Beach & Waterfront Weddings

Get married with an aquatic backdrop at Mote Science Education Aquarium, or with your toes in the sand at one of America's top-rated beaches.

Performing Arts Wedding Venues

Dance under the bright lights on the stage of The Sarasota Opera House or Van Wezel Performing Arts Hall.

Country Club Weddings

Golf courses and country clubs are in abundance. Acres of manicured green grass and lake views provide stately backdrops for wedding receptions. Laurel Oak Country Club has indoor and outdoor venues for 30 to 300 guests, and University Park Country Club can accommodate up to 200 guests.

Where to Stay for a Sarasota Wedding

Trying to find the best place to have your guests stay, for a getaway after the ceremony is over or to package the wedding and lodging all together? Consider the following:

Siesta Key has several condominiums with one-week rental minimums and mom-and-pop beachside retreats. On the south end of Siesta Beach is the Residences on Siesta Key Beach, a Hyatt Vacation Club. This luxury property sits directly on the beach and its concierge-service approach leaves guests plenty of time to relax in poolside cabanas, catch a movie at the swim-up cinema or dine on gourmet delicacies.

Lido Key is also home to several all-in-one wedding venues such as Lido Beach Resort offering an "effortlessly romantic setting for perfect weddings" — whether it be in the secluded Sunset Sand Garden or the waterfront ballroom. The resort offers special packages for weddings as well.

The Ritz-Carlton, Sarasota is located on the mainland with expansive views of the bay and city. The Ritz's sophisticated beach club on Lido Beach offers a stunning choice for beachfront weddings and fine dining.

The Resort at Longboat Key Club boasts five on-site restaurants, five event spaces and private beaches. The Resort will truly make you feel you are in paradise.

South of the city of Sarasota, Casey Key Resorts has a mainland property and beachfront inns on Casey Key's southern end.

Sarasota Wedding Vendors

Your day, your way. Sarasota vendors are ready to help you plan your event down to every little detail, just the way you like it. Consider these options for wedding planning, florists, printing, photography and more.