Today we’d like to introduce you to Antoinette Bunn.
Hi Antoinette , we’re thrilled to have a chance to learn your story today. So, before we get into specifics, maybe you can briefly walk us through how you got to where you are today?
Hi, I’m Antoinette Bunn, founder of Sarasota Elopements and an ordained minister with the American Marriage Ministries. My journey into officiating intimate weddings began with a simple realization — love doesn’t need to be complicated to be meaningful.
I’ve always believed that the most powerful moments in life are often the simplest ones. Over the years, I watched many couples get overwhelmed by the logistics and costs of large traditional weddings. I wanted to offer something different — something heartfelt, personal, and stress-free. That vision became Sarasota Elopements, where couples can focus on what truly matters: each other.
When I first started, it was just me, a beach, and a handful of couples who wanted to say “I do” their way. From those first small ceremonies on the shores of Siesta Key to now officiating elopements across Sarasota’s most beautiful locations, it’s been an incredible journey. Each ceremony has its own unique story — some filled with laughter, others with tears of joy — but every one of them has reaffirmed why I do what I do.
Today, Sarasota Elopements has grown into a trusted, boutique service that helps couples create their perfect intimate ceremony. I handle everything from crafting personalized vows to officiating and filing the marriage license — allowing couples to simply show up, be present, and celebrate their love.
At the heart of my work is a commitment to love, elegance, and simplicity. Whether it’s a barefoot beach elopement at sunset or a quiet park ceremony surrounded by family, my goal is always the same — to make your wedding day stress-free, beautiful, and unforgettable.
Would you say it’s been a smooth road, and if not what are some of the biggest challenges you’ve faced along the way?
It’s been a fairly smooth journey overall, but like any growing business, I’ve learned a lot along the way. Early on, I realized the importance of truly understanding each couple’s story and preferences. Over time, I refined my questionnaire to include more thoughtful and detailed questions — ensuring that every ceremony I create feels authentic, personal, and perfectly tailored to each couple.
Alright, so let’s switch gears a bit and talk business. What should we know about your work?
I help couples who want a meaningful, intimate wedding experience in the Sarasota, Florida area. At Sarasota Elopements, I specialize in officiating small-scale ceremonies (typically 20 guests or fewer) including:
Beach or park elopements
Small intimate weddings
Commitment ceremonies and vow renewals
I handle everything from writing a personalized ceremony to officiating on the day and filing the marriage license, so couples can simply show up, relax, and celebrate.
What am I known for / what sets me apart?
A few things that define my service and set me apart:
Personalization: I send a detailed questionnaire so I can fully understand your story, your values, the vibe you want—and then craft a ceremony that feels like you.
Elegant simplicity: My guiding principles are love, elegance and simplicity. I believe an intimate ceremony doesn’t need to be over-produced—but it does need to be deeply meaningful.
Stress-free process: From selecting a beautiful location (beach, park, or private spot) to paperwork filing, I handle the logistics so you can focus entirely on each other and your moment.
Local expertise: I am rooted in the Sarasota area and know the best spots for intimate ceremonies—what works, what permissions might be needed, and how to make your day smooth.
What am I most proud of?
I’m most proud of creating intimate, heartfelt weddings where couples feel seen, heard and honored. It’s a privilege to stand with two people in one of their most significant life moments—and to deliver a ceremony that reflects their story, not a cookie-cutter script. I take pride in knowing that each celebration is unique, elegant and true to the couple’s vision.
If you had to, what characteristic of yours would you give the most credit to?
For me, the most important quality behind my success has been being genuine and authentic. Every couple I meet deserves an experience that feels real and personal, not scripted or rushed. I approach each ceremony with honesty, care, and a sincere desire to celebrate love in its truest form.
Couples can sense when you’re genuine — when you truly care about their story and want to make their day special. I take the time to listen, understand who they are, and craft a ceremony that reflects their unique bond. That authenticity builds trust, comfort, and connection, which makes every ceremony more meaningful.
In a world where so many things can feel commercialized or impersonal, I believe authenticity stands out. It’s what allows me to create intimate, heartfelt ceremonies that couples remember for a lifetime.
Contact Info:
- Website: https://www.sarasotaelopements.com/
- Instagram: https://www.facebook.com/p/Sarasota-Elopements-61563466332545/
- Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/sarasotaelopements
Image Credits
Samantha Brown Photography, Julia Rachel Photography, Nicole Niffenegger Photographi
