Miami is a popular wedding destination for UK couples: reliable winter sunshine, world-class venues and direct flights from London. Planning from more than 4,000 miles away takes some organisation, though. This guide covers the practical side, written by a studio that works on both sides of the Atlantic.
This guide is general information, not legal advice. Requirements change, so always check the latest guidance from the relevant county clerk and the UK government before you travel.
1. Make it legal
To marry in Florida, you'll need a Florida marriage licence, which you apply for in person at a county clerk's office with valid photo ID such as your passports. Florida doesn't require you to be resident, and the waiting period that applies to some Florida residents doesn't normally apply to visitors. Licences are valid for a limited period after they're issued, so time your application around your date.
Marriages legally performed in Florida are generally recognised in the UK. Some couples choose a short legal ceremony at home and a celebration in Miami to keep the paperwork simple. Both approaches make lovely films.
2. Plan around the time difference
Miami is usually five hours behind the UK. That affects two things:
- Planning calls. Work with suppliers who can meet during your evenings, or UK-based suppliers who know Miami.
- Family watching from home. A 4 pm ceremony in Miami is 9 pm in the UK, which suits a livestream well. A late-evening Miami ceremony would mean a very late night for anyone watching at home.
3. Choose your season carefully
For UK couples, November to April is the obvious choice: warm, drier days while it's dark and cold at home. It's also peak season, so book key suppliers 12–18 months ahead. Summer weddings are hotter and fall in hurricane season, which runs from June to November. Our season guide goes into more detail.
4. Think about your guests' journey
- There are direct flights from London to Miami, and connections from regional airports including Newcastle.
- UK passport holders usually need an approved ESTA to visit the US under the Visa Waiver Programme. Remind guests to apply well in advance.
- Give guests a weekend, not just a day. Welcome drinks and a farewell brunch make the journey worthwhile and give your film a fuller story.
- Recommend areas to stay. Miami Beach, Brickell and Coconut Grove all have very different feels.
5. Build a remote-friendly supplier team
A good local planner is invaluable for a destination wedding. They know the venues, the permits and the weather. Beyond that, look for suppliers who reply promptly, are comfortable planning over video calls and put everything in writing.
Our studio is based in Newcastle upon Tyne, which means UK couples can plan with us during normal working hours, then meet us in Miami for the wedding.
6. Budget for the extras
US pricing often doesn't include sales tax or gratuities, which are customary for many wedding services. Ask every supplier whether quotes include tax and service charges, and agree currencies and payment schedules early.
7. Bring home the whole story
Not everyone you love will be able to travel. A livestream lets them watch the ceremony live, and a full feature film lets them experience the whole day afterwards, from the speeches to the dance floor.
A Miami wedding from the UK is entirely achievable. It just needs the right team and a little extra planning.
Planning a Miami wedding from the UK? See how we work with destination couples or send us your date using the form above.