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Planning a destination wedding is surely a very exciting and memorable experience. But as thoughts of organizing travel for 50 guests, planning from hundreds (or thousands!) of miles away and potential language barriers creep in, it can quickly become very overwhelming. Don’t be discouraged! We’ve broken down the initial planning process into these 3 steps to help ensure that your destination wedding goes smoothly and is everything you've dreamed of and more. Keep reading to see how easy it can be!
We know, the thought of planning a destination wedding can definitely be a daunting task, but by breaking the initial planning down into these 3 steps and working with the right travel agent (we can’t stress this enough!) you can have a stress-free and unforgettable event. Just see what we can do!
We’d love to be the agency to help you through this process. We’ve been planning destination weddings since 1998, and it is all we do. No cruises, no Disney, no family vacations to distract us from focusing on your wedding day. And since our services to you are FREE (yep, you heard that right!) why not give us some time to show you how we can help. You don’t need to do this alone.
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From deciding to have a destination wedding, all the way to planning one - we're sure you've got some questions in mind! Here are 4 things you're probably wondering:
Why Choose a Destination Wedding? From affordability and convenience, to intimate settings with your closest friends and family - the list really goes on. In fact, we've created a whole blog post dedicated to why you should pick a destination wedding. How Much Does a Wedding Cost? Did you know that the average traditional wedding costs around $40,000 and up? Yep - you read that right. With a destination wedding, we have partnerships with gorgeous resorts around the world that will cost you a quarter of the price. Don't believe us? Just check it out for yourself. How to Plan a Destination Wedding So, how exactly does this whole thing work, you might ask? Well, say no more! We've worked with thousands of couples on their special day and have got the whole wedding planning thing down to a science. For an idea of our process, click here! Where to Have a Destination Wedding Mexico, Jamaica, and the Dominican Republic take the cake for top places to get married (in our opinion). Not sure how to decide? No worries - we'll weigh all the pros and cons with you during our initial meetings! Interested in working with a travel agent to plan your destination wedding? Then, click below to get in touch with one of our experts!
Planning a destination wedding is simple when you take the right steps. Let us help you plan one memorable destination wedding!
FIND A WEDDING EXPERT First and most important, you need to choose a wedding travel EXPERT to help you through the process. We can’t stress this enough! A wedding travel expert knows all the destinations and resorts, the good AND the bad, and can recommend the ones that match your wants and needs. Our experts oversee the entire process and will never charge you a fee for our services. We want you to WANT to work with us because of our dedication to you. You’ll love what we have to offer. PLAN THE LOGISTICS After we help you select the perfect beach destination wedding resort, we’ll negotiate the best group rates, perks and amenities and create a custom wedding website for you to share with your guests. All of the details your guests will need are listed on your website, making communication and reservations super easy.
USE YOUR ONSITE COORDINATOR We will introduce you to the wedding coordinator at the resort, who will handle all the wedding day details and help us create the wedding of your dreams. We, of course, will continue to oversee everything and remain in constant contact with you, your wedding coordinator and your guests until the big day. LOCK DOWN TRAVEL PLANS We will make and manage custom travel arrangements for you and your guests based on the wants and needs of each person attending. Guests will be able to choose their own room category and travel dates, and even set up a payment plan to help budget for the trip. TRUST THE PROCESS! As your wedding day draws near, we will make sure guests know what to expect prior to their trip to ensure a seamless experience. We send out “know before you go” information along with beautifully packaged travel documents and goodies. We are available while you travel in case anyone needs assistance. You only need to take a deep breath and know that WE’VE GOT THIS so you can enjoy an unforgettable destination wedding experience. To get started, just tap the button below. We'd love to hear from you! P.S. If this post helped, be sure to pin it for later!
Not sure if you need a destination wedding specialist? We're here to help! Here's 5 reasons NOT to use one:
1) You want to spend time researching 100’s of resorts, reading 1000’s of reviews, and looking at photoshopped photos in hopes of getting lucky and picking the right resort Don't want to do this? A wedding travel agent will do all the necessary research to match your interests and budget - so you don't have to. 2) You don’t mind waiting weeks and weeks for the wedding coordinator to reply to your emails, if they reply at all Don't want to wait? A wedding travel agent offers a quick turnaround and is always up-to-date with the latest changes. 3) You prefer to have all your guests call and text you millions of questions about booking a room, room rates, airport transportation, passports, and travel in general Don't want the questions? A wedding travel agent will work with each of your guests to make sure they are well taken care, all so you can focus on being the bride. 4) You enjoy being responsible for organizing and preparing international travel for large groups of people Don't want to organize? A wedding travel agent is an expert on the details and will prepare each guest for their international trip. 5) You want to be stressed out for the next year while you try to plan your wedding day Don't want the stress? A wedding travel agent is definitely what you need! Think you'd be better off without a wedding travel agent? Think again! Your wedding is a time for you to focus on being the bride. Leave all the travel and guest details to the experts. This is what we do. You will be so happy to have us on your side. Contact us through the button below to start the planning process! P.S. If this post helped, be sure to pin it for later!
Searching for a boho-chic, Tulum-ish wedding resort in Mexico? Well, then say no more - we've rounded up our top 4 here!
Secrets Moxche’ Escape into luxury, just a 10-minute drive from Playa del Carmen's famed 5th Avenue, and indulge in a contemporary experience resort with a bohemian feel! Here, the happy couple can enjoy luxurious amenities, stunning views, an in-room rolling bar, all complete with their signature Unlimited-Luxury® experience. This brand new, adults only resort is already a fan favorite for couples looking for an upscale, unique and inspiring destination wedding location. El Dorado Seaside Palms Situated on Kantenah Bay, El Dorado Seaside Suites is divided into two distinct sections: Palms and Infinity – both of which offer a unique vacation experience. The Palms features intimate accommodations, authentic Mexican architecture, lush vegetation and serene coconut plantations - perfect for wedding goers looking for a laid back, boho-chic vibe. There are instagrammable photo ops throughout this adults only, all-inclusive resort. Unico 2087 The carefully crafted details and local artful touches make Unico 20º87º the ideal matrimonial backdrop for couples and adult travelers. Known for its exceptional value and service, this property boasts an entirely new standard for inclusion. We think you’ll also find the Anfitrion Service to be especially enticing, which is designed to replace the traditional butler service and to serve as your personal host during your stay. The Fives Oceanfront Say hello to The Fives Oceanfront Hotel – where you can relax and recharge your senses on the peaceful shores of Puerto Morelos. This seaside escape will immerse you into the natural beauty of your surroundings and introduce you to new adventures every day. Explore the pristine beaches, cenotes, and some of the best snorkeling and fishing sites in the area – or just lounge on the soft white sands with a refreshing cocktail in hand. Whatever you do, you don't want to miss the private rooftop pool area which turned into a spectacular private wedding venue in the evening! Ready to start your exciting destination wedding journey? Then, contact us through the button below to start the process! P.S. If this post helped, be sure to pin it for later!
Looking for the best LGBT-friendly wedding resorts and destinations? Then, allow this blog post to be your guide!
Cancun/Riviera MayaEl Dorado Royale With Mexico being the ideal destination for LGBT couples wanting a legal wedding ceremony, it’s no wonder El Dorado Royale made it to the top of our list! Not only does this fabulous adult-only property offer the style, service and setting you crave, but its signature “Always & Forever Package” includes everything from expert wedding designers and décor, to a ceremony officiant, a semi-private dinner reservation, a honeymoon package, and so much more. Unico 2087 For a unique wedding experience with an attention to detail, look no further than Unico 2087. This is the adult-only wedding resort that redefines the meaning of luxury vacation. It also provides experiential wedding packages for guests of all religions and backgrounds, making it a popular choice for LGBT couples. Royalton Riviera Cancun Another fantastic option to tie the knot is at Royalton Riviera Cancun. Here, couples can choose from a variety of romantic settings to wed - from the resort’s poolside terrace or white sand beach, to the glamourous sky wedding venue that is a unique experience in itself! We also love this property for its separate adult and family area, where everyone can feel free to do their own thing and regroup together later on.
Puerto Vallarta Hyatt Ziva Puerto Vallarta At Hyatt Ziva Puerto Vallarta, couples and their families can expect unlimited food and drink, plenty of entertainment, a Kidz Club, and seasonal whale watching (to name a few). The family-friendly escape is also best known for its exotic cliff-side views - making you feel like you're on vacation the moment you arrive!
CaboRiu Palace Cabo San Lucas Los Cabos is a breathtaking option for LGBT destination weddings for its picturesque coastline and mountainous backdrops. Couples are invited to start their forever in a variety of settings, like the property’s beautifully-decorated gazebo or expansive beach. There’s also a number of options to celebrate with a private dinner reception, a wedding cake, music, and so much more. Hard Rock Cabo From the Hard Rock memorabilia and elaborately-decorated suites, to the Rock Spa and Posh Beauty Salon and Boutique – Hard Rock Hotel Los Cabos is guaranteed to wash your cares away. Relax on the sandy shores of the Baja Peninsula, or soak up the sun in five of the resort’s refreshing pools. In addition, couples can enjoy their very own personal outdoor hydro-spa tub for a bit of added luxury!
Punta Cana Hard Rock Punta Cana LGBT couples wishing to wed in the Caribbean will love Hard Rock Hotel Punta Cana for its vibrant nightlife and legendary Hard Rock entertainment. Just like all these amazing properties, Hard Rock offers a complimentary wedding package that includes everything you need to pull off the perfect wedding day. It’s also a great option for couples who plan to marry legally prior to their trip, as this resort only performs symbolic ceremonies. Secrets Cap Cana This Dominican Republic property is situated in an exclusive community in Cap Cana, bringing the highest level of elegance and luxury to your wedding experience. Known for its incredible sugar-sand beach, sparkling pools and fancy rooms –it's no wonder this one made our top LGBT wedding resorts. Additionally, Secrets Cap Cana offers a variety of romantic packages just for the happy couple. Ready to start your exciting destination wedding journey? Then, contact us through the button below to start the process! P.S. If this post helped, be sure to pin it for later!
We've heard a lot of talk around these common destination wedding misconceptions - so today, we're setting the story straight!
MYTH #1: HARD TO PLAN Many people assume planning a wedding in a remote location is much more difficult than planning a wedding locally. But what couples don't realize, is that travel agencies specialize in romantic travel – particularly destination weddings, and cover all these details FOR you. There's no need to stress – your travel specialist does all the leg work for you! MYTH #2: IT'S TOO EXPENSIVE With the traditional American wedding costing over $30,000, it's no wonder most people assume a wedding in an exotic location would be more. Luckily, most properties can hold a beautiful wedding ceremony and reception for you and your guests for as little as $10,000 –significantly cheaper than the average local wedding.
MYTH #3: TOO COOKIE CUTTER Are you avoiding a remote wedding because you don't think you can add those personal touches like you could in person? Think again. When you book with a travel specialist, they'll hook you up with the resort's wedding planners whose job it is to pull off gorgeous wedding setups for you well ahead of time. In addition, the wedding planners communicate with you every step of the way to ensure your wedding is as lavish as you expected upon arrival. MYTH #4: GUESTS WON'T ATTEND Truth is, there are many perks in booking your wedding at an all-inclusive resort. Guests group rates are fairly inexpensive and reasonable, and considering that food and drink are included, it winds up being a better deal than a traditional wedding. Transportation is also taken care of by your travel specialists from start to finish, so you and your guests don't have to worry about getting from point A to point B. MYTH #5: THERE'S LIMITED OPTIONS This is a HUGE myth –there are endless options out there! Since searching for the perfect wedding destination can be a bit overwhelming for couples, consider booking with a travel specialist who is a PRO at finding you everything on your wish list, and then some. A good travel specialist travels to a variety of destinations and resorts annually to make sure they will provide a great experience for couples and guests. They will help you narrow down your options based on pricing, venues, food, and more. For more information on booking your dream wedding, contact Romance Travel Group – their experts will take care of you. Click below to get in touch! P.S. Be sure to pin this post so you can refer to it later!
Not sure when to have your destination wedding? Then, say no more - this blog will be a great a reference as you get planning!
The Best Months for Your Destination WeddingMid-Season Mid season runs from Easter though August and in early January. Here, you can expect pretty average rates, making it a safe option for your destination wedding. Low Season Low season runs from September through early November and early December. You’ll get the best rates if you choose a wedding date in low travel season - plus, you'll find more availability at your resort of choice!
The Worst Months for Your Destination WeddingHoliday Season Yep, you guessed it - rates are very high during the holidays and often present sold out resorts. Think about holidays like Thanksgiving, Christmas, New Year’s and Easter, but also special times like Mother's Day and Father's Day. Be kind to your guests and try to avoid these dates! Peak Season Another challenging time of year is mid-Jan through Easter - which is the peak season for destination weddings. Again, we're talking the highest rates and limited availability. Have questions for us? We'd be glad to help you with your destination wedding journey. Simply click below to get in touch! P.S. Be sure to pin this post so you can refer to it later!
Destination weddings are expected to increase in 2022 - and here's why!
It's Unique! If an elaborate wedding ceremony is the last thing on your mind, you may want something a bit more scenic... more tranquil... and even a bit untraditional. Sound about right? Sure, you can make any wedding unique. But location offers an experience that makes it hard to forget. They're Romantic! On top of the sandy beaches, the colorful sunsets, and the warm Caribbean breeze, most resorts actually have special packages for newlyweds that are intended to enhance the romantic experience. Some of the perks we're talking about include room upgrades, resort points—and even spa credits. Couple's massage, anyone? Super Affordable! Speaking of perks, a lot of resorts offer wedding packages that include everything from the decor at the wedding ceremony, to the food and drink at the reception. Not to mention taxes, gratuities, and lovely accommodations! In fact, you can have a beautiful destination wedding for as little $10,000—quite the deal compared to the average American wedding of around $30,000+!
Very Convenient! Besides travelling to the wedding destination itself, once you and your guests are there—you're there! It's nice to know you don't have to worry about rides to and from the ceremony, to the reception, then back to the hotel again—everything's usually within walking distance. Additionally, resorts typically have a workout facility, spa, and numerous restaurants and bars—a stamp of approval in the convenience department. Hey, it may even save you a honeymoon trip, if that's what you choose! Dedicated Experts! Did you know that there are travel agencies dedicated to planning the ultimate destination wedding? Most assume arranging these types of weddings are difficult. But with Romance Travel Group, you get to work with experts who have planned hundreds of destination weddings. Plus, they have great relationships with travel partners to ensure the most affordable rates, and will even try to match competitive prices. Another positive, is that you communicate directly with a "live" person from start to finish—that's not something you can say about your average travel website. Interested in planning a 2022 destination wedding? Then, be sure to fill out the form through the link below to get in touch! P.S. Be sure to pin this post so you can refer to it later!
Thinking about a destination wedding? Then be sure to consider these things before getting started! #1 Your Budget While a traditional wedding can easily cost $30,000 or more, we can plan you the destination wedding of your dreams for nearly a quarter of the cost. With that said, there are typically three factors that play into your costs: the resort, the airfare, and the wedding package. These things all fluctuate depending on the time of year you book and where you’re traveling, so something to keep in mind when determining your budget! #2 Your Destination of Choice We recommend choosing a destination that is easy to get to, so your guests aren’t spending an entire vacation day traveling. Places like Mexico, Jamaica and the Dominican Republic are fairly easy to get to and only require a 3-5 hour flight. Locations that are more exotic require multiple connecting flights and transfers, making it an exhausting day for your guests to endure. You can still get all the looks and vibes you want without the time and cost of long flights. #3 Your Wedding Date Your wedding travel costs will rely heavily on the date you choose. Peak seasons are usually from mid-January through Easter and will reflect the highest rates. Mid-season ranges from Easter through August, and even early January, and will have fairly reasonable rates. For a better bargain, try September through early November or early December. Schedule a call with one of our experts to discuss the most budget-friendly times to travel!
#4 Your Guest Count Generally, we find that about 30-40% of those you invite will be able to attend your destination wedding. But don’t let that discourage you! Not everyone can afford to take the time off or travel. We suggest having a reception back at home to celebrate with those who were unable to attend. #5 Your Resort Preference Adult-only or family-friendly? Active and lively? It's up to you! We highly recommend all-inclusive resorts because they provide you with meals and drinks, making it a lot easier on your guests and their budgets. Additionally, many all-inclusive resorts offer couples a semi-private reception, resort credits, upgrades, and more! #6 Your Ceremony Style Envisioning yourself tying the knot on the beach? Or perhaps, you’ve thought about saying “I do” under a beautifully-decorated gazebo? Some couples even go all out on a swanky rooftop! Oftentimes, your resort will offer many options for you to choose from based on your preferences and guest count. You’ll even have a plan B lined up in case it rains, so no need to worry about that! #7 Your Ceremony Type A legal ceremony is when you receive a marriage certificate from the destination you’re married in, and is recognized legally back home. These ceremonies typically require more paperwork, have additional fees, and occasionally require blood tests. A symbolic ceremony has no legal binding, and makes up approximately 80% of destination weddings. Typically, the bride and groom will go to their local clergy or courthouse and become legally married before they leave. A symbolic ceremony is just so much easier! Ready to get started? Then, be sure to connect with a destination wedding expert, today! P.S. Be sure to pin this post so you can refer to it later!
Curious where to host your destination wedding? Well then, say no more - we're listing our top partners below!
Karisma Resorts From El Dorado and Azul Beach, to Generations Resorts, these properties host quite possibly the best destination weddings! Here, the two of you can explore signature wedding collections with a price tag that won’t break the bank. In fact, most couples take advantage of Karisma’s “Always & Forever Package,” which includes everything from the expert wedding designers and décor to your ceremony officiant, a wedding certificate, a semi-private dinner reservation, a honeymoon package, and so much more. And, most couples earn this package for free! Fives Hotels Weddings at The Fives are nothing less than extraordinary. Gather in a private paradise of Mexico and exchange your vows in one of the area’s most blissful settings. Here, you and your wedding guests can enjoy unique venue options, exceptional cuisine, and chic tropical suites. In addition, your entire party can indulge in a large variety of entertainment, nightlife, outdoor pools, and perfect beaches.
Royalton Resorts Experience breathtaking moments at Royalton Resorts, a true lover's paradise. Wedding packages are tailored for any taste or style, and are always customized to fit any budget. Experience a variety of options such as, a wedding concierge, a custom cake, and spa discounts with your wedding package. Additional perks include a number of fabulous locations, modern rooms, and dining galore! Playa Hotels Playa Hotels & Resorts offers the perfect setting for the wedding of your dreams, as well as honeymoons, anniversaries and other special occasions. Enjoy all-inclusive luxury in a variety of breathtaking settings! Playa resorts are located in all the best destinations, making them a perfect choice for just about anywhere. They offer the perfect blend of modern and tropical.
AIC Hotels Enjoy a simple and elegant matrimonial backdrop for your special day, with a Hard Rock Hotel Complimentary Wedding Package. The natural sand isle, white seating, and floral arrangements will perfectly compliment each other while you say, “I do.” A few additional perks include, a 1-tiered wedding cake, a bridal bouquet, sparkling wine, and a wedding registry, not to mention a wedding team that will work with you from start to finish. Palace Resorts Known for their elegance, beachy neutrals, and customizable wedding packages, Palace Resorts is by far one of our favorite options. The “Compliments Collection” includes everything from the gazebo and setup, to the décor, floral arrangements, honeymoon package, and breakfast in bed the next morning. What more could you ask for in a destination wedding? Additional details may vary depending on location – just ask us which one is right for you!
Riu Resorts At Riu Resorts, a destination wedding never seems to fall short from perfection. Expect an expert wedding coordinator to assist you while everything falls into place perfectly. Your wedding package includes a variety of décor, recorded music during your ceremony, a semi-private dinner, a wedding cake, and a surprise gift for the couple. Upgrades are also available, so be sure to check those out, too! P.S. Be sure to pin this post so you can refer to it later!
You’re having a destination wedding, yay! Now it’s time to invite those guests. Here's some tips to get started:
Give Them Notice It’s best to extend the invites 14 months in advance, just after your resort has been booked. The reason you want to do this is so your guests can plan out their vacation time, reserve a babysitter (if needed), and have plenty of time to save up!
Save The Dates To ensure your guests have the proper notice to travel to your destination wedding, you’ll want to make sure you send the save the dates out well in advance. The extra time will allow your guests to save up on vacation days and budget accordingly. Be sure your save the dates include your wedding date, your destination, and most importantly –a link to your wedding website!
No RSVPs Necessary An RSVP is unnecessary to include on your destination wedding save the dates because we track them for you! We’ll keep tabs on who is traveling with who and when, so you don’t have to be scrambling for final numbers. We’ve found that a traditional RSVP for destination weddings presents too many “false positives” or guests wanting to attend, but can’t. For more information on planning your destination wedding with us, click the button below to get started! P.S. Be sure to pin this post so you can refer to it later!
Charming hospitality, lively culture, and world-class beaches? There’s a whole ‘lot to love about a destination wedding! Keep scrolling to learn more!
Destination Weddings are Cost-EfficientIt's Super Affordable One of the biggest destination wedding myths we hear often, is that it’s too expensive, but with the traditional American wedding costing around $30,000 or more, it's no wonder most people assume a wedding in a tropical paradise would be more. Luckily, most properties in Mexico can hold a beautiful wedding ceremony and reception for you and your guests for as little as $10,000 – significantly cheaper than your average wedding. And All-Inclusive Another reason why Mexico is great for destination weddings is the all-inclusiveness. Most properties include meals, drinks, entertainment, and activities, so everyone and anyone is taken care of all day and night. We also have a number of properties that offer free wedding packages, which include everything from a private ceremony location, to the cake and drinks.
You Can Truly Make it YoursAll The Add-Ons How often do you hear the word “complimentary” associated with planning a wedding? Yeah, not so much. But in Mexico, it’s no surprise to see complimentary sky massages, champagne and strawberries, or private dinners thrown in as a way of saying “congrats” to the happy couple. We’ve even helped our brides and grooms get complimentary honeymoon nights as an added bonus. 😉 And Customizations Mexico is one of our most popular destinations for brides because of how abundant the options are. We partner with a variety of properties who value your uniqueness and creativity, so that ocean pier ceremony you’ve been dreaming about? Done. The monogrammed dance floor and custom cocktail you requested? You’ve got it.
It's Not as Hard to Plan as You ThinkPlanning as Easy as 1-2-3 Imagine having all the little details taken care of for you, as you watch your wedding dreams fall into place. That’s right! A destination wedding isn’t as hard to plan as you think. In fact, we’ll work with you side-by-side to ensure your day runs as smooth and stress-free as possible. We’ll even introduce you to the onsite wedding coordinator to go over all the fun details like decorations, food, and seating arrangements so everything’s covered before you get there. The best part? These services are complimentary! Can’t say that about your average wedding, now can you? For more information on planning your destination wedding with us, click the button below to get started! P.S. Be sure to pin this post so you can refer to it later!
Curious how to select wedding vendors for your destination wedding? Then, keep reading for a little inspiration and our personal recommendations!
Resort Vendors or Outside Vendors?There are 3 different kinds of "vendors" when planning a destination wedding. 1. Resort Vendors - Typically, your destination wedding resort will provide you with a list of approved vendors to choose from. From catering and photos, to makeup, music, décor and flowers - they've got you covered! The resort has already vetted these vendors and has contracted them to provide services for weddings being held at the resort. This is great if you like the vendor, as the vendor already knows the resort and there are not extra fees to work with them. You'll just pay for their services. 2. Outside Vendors - If you find another vendor who lives in the destination that needs access to the resort for the day, they are considered an Outside Vendor. Because these vendors are not approved or contracted, the resort will charge you a fee, called an Outside Vendor Fee, to allow them access. These fees can range from $500 per vendor to over $2000 per vendor. Ouch! 3. Wedding "Guest" Vendors - If you have a preferred wedding vendor back at home that you’d like to bring in for the big day, it’s totally doable! As long as the vendor is booked under your wedding group for a minimum of 3 nights, they are considered a guest, not an outside vendor. Most resorts allow this and will waive the outside vendor fee since the vendor is a guest staying at the resort. You will want to negotiate the vendor's travel costs in exchange for their services.
Types of Vendor to Bring InWhile this may vary, couples will bring in a hair stylist, make-up artist, and photographer. If you'd like to bring in another vendor, simply let your travel coordinator know and they'll work with them to make it happen! DJ's are tricky because of all the equipment, but you can still ask about it. Have additional questions for us? Then, click below to get in touch with a destination wedding specialist, today! P.S. Be sure to pin this post so you can refer to it later!
Not sure how to tie the knot (legally) in paradise? Then, read on to discover the ceremony requirements for your destination wedding!
Legal Ceremony vs. Symbolic Ceremony?First thing’s first. What exactly is the difference between a legal wedding ceremony and a symbolic wedding ceremony? Well, a legal ceremony is when you receive a marriage certificate from the destination you’re married in, and is recognized legally back home. A legal ceremony typically requires more paperwork, has additional fees, and occasional blood tests. A symbolic ceremony has no legal binding, and makes up approximately 90% of destination weddings. Typically, the bride and groom will go to their local clergy or courthouse and become legally married before they leave. The best part? A symbolic ceremony and wedding can be performed just as a legal one would – so your guests will never know the difference.
Destination Ceremony RequirementsMexico – As one of our most popular wedding destinations, the bride and groom will receive no legal bearing in this symbolic marriage. In fact, the only civil ceremony that is legally recognized in Mexico, must be performed by a judge. A blood test is required for this. Dominican Republic – If you decide to wed here, keep in mind the only legal ceremonies are the one’s performed by the judge or Catholic priest. Be sure your paperwork is notarized and translated into Spanish, which will typically add an additional $1000-1500 to your wedding costs. Any vow renewals will also serve no legal bearing, as that is performed by a non-denominational minister. Jamaica – Both civil and religious ceremonies performed by a minister are legally recognized in Jamaica. Vow renewals also bear no legal meaning, and the couple must be previously married.
Our Ceremony RecommendationTypically, we recommend the bride and groom go to their local clergy or courthouse and become legally married before their destination wedding. But not to worry, a symbolic ceremony can be performed just as a legal one would – so your guests will never know the difference! Questions? Click the button below to get in touch with an expert! P.S. Be sure to pin this post so you can refer to it later!
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