Table of contents
- 1 TL;DR — Dominican Republic Wedding Tips for 2026
- 2 Choose the Perfect Time to Get Married
- 3 Find Your Ideal Wedding Region
- 4 Hire the Right Local Planner
- 5 Get Your Paperwork Ready (Legal Checklist)
- 6 Budget-Friendly Dominican Weddings
- 7 Embrace Dominican Wedding Traditions
- 8 Be Ready for Tropical Weather
- 9 Transportation & Accessibility Tips
- 10 Local Culture, Food & Music
- 11 How to Get Married in the Dominican Republic (Step-by-Step)
- 12 Resort Packages & Where to Start
- 13 1. Choose the right time of year:
- 14 2. Find the perfect venue and wedding resort:
- 15 3. Hire a professional planner:
- 16 4. Get your paperwork in order:
- 17 5. Consider a local wedding tradition:
- 18 6. Cater to your guests:
- 19 7. Consider the weather and Have A Backup Plan:
- 20 8. Plan for transportation:
- 21 9. Enjoy the scenery:
- 22 FAQs — Our Most-Asked DR Wedding Questions
Planning a destination wedding can be a daunting task, but with a little research, it doesn’t have to be. The Dominican Republic is a popular choice for destination weddings, and for good reason. The island has something for everyone, from stunning beaches to historic landmarks.
If you’re thinking about saying “I do” in the Dominican Republic, then read on for 10 Dominican Republic wedding tips you need to know!
TL;DR — Dominican Republic Wedding Tips for 2026
Before getting married in the Dominican Republic, understand the legal steps, the best season, and which regions fit your vision. Resorts make it easy with all-inclusive wedding packages, bilingual planners, and stunning venues from Punta Cana to Samaná. Choose a legal wedding (Dominican Republic) for worldwide recognition or a symbolic wedding (Dominican Republic) for zero paperwork.
| Category | Quick Tip (2026 Update) |
|---|---|
| Best Season | Dec–Apr (dry, sunny) |
| Legal Requirements | Valid passport, birth certificate, notarized single-status affidavit; translations/legalization as needed |
| Average Cost | $4,000–$10,000 all-inclusive (package + small group) |
| Top Regions | Punta Cana, La Romana, Puerto Plata, Samaná |
| Local Traditions | Arras coins, lasso, La Hora Loca |
| Resort Trend | Eco-luxury design + smaller guest counts |
Choose the Perfect Time to Get Married
The Dominican Republic wedding season peaks in the dry months. Pricing tracks with weather and demand.
| Window | Weather | Crowds/Rates | Why Choose It |
|---|---|---|---|
| Dec–Apr (Dry) | Sunny, breezy, minimal rain | Highest | Best photos & outdoor comfort |
| May–Jun (Shoulder) | Warm, spotty showers | Moderate | Value + good weather odds |
| Aug–Oct (Hurricane risk) | Hotter, higher rain chance | Lowest | Biggest savings + must have Plan B |
| Nov (Shoulder) | Warm, breezy | Moderate | Pre-holiday sweet spot |
2026 trend: Smaller weekday weddings can lower package pricing by ~20% and free up premium ceremony times.
Find Your Ideal Wedding Region
Match your vibe to the right coastline for a flawless Dominican Republic destination wedding.
| Region | Best For | Highlights / Example Venues |
|---|---|---|
| Punta Cana | Beachfront ease, luxe all-inclusive stays | Soft sands, turquoise water; Punta Cana wedding icons like Hard Rock Punta Cana, rooftop gazebos, sky terraces; Punta Cana all-inclusive wedding packages often include upgrades |
| La Romana | Intimate luxury, privacy | Upscale villas and marinas; Casa de Campo vibes; perfect for chic welcome dinners |
| Puerto Plata | Culture + heritage | Colonial charm, mountain backdrops; Puerto Plata wedding photos pop with color |
| Samaná | Adventure + eco | Waterfalls, eco-lodges, whale-season romance; secluded coves for “secret beach” feels |
Searching the best wedding resorts Dominican Republic? Shortlist a few per region, then compare destination wedding packages Dominican Republic side-by-side.
Hire the Right Local Planner
A bilingual Dominican Republic wedding planner (and on-site wedding coordinator) is your secret weapon. They will:
- Confirm how to get married in the Dominican Republic based on your legal or symbolic choice
- Collect/validate marriage license Dominican Republic documents and manage translations
- Book vendors (florals, Dominican Republic wedding photographer, music) who know your resort’s rules
- Build your wedding-week timeline and guest transfer plan
Pro tip: Ask about florist substitution lists, backup ceremony spaces, and sunset photo timing.
Get Your Paperwork Ready (Legal Checklist)
Dominican Republic wedding requirements (legal ceremonies):
- Passports (valid for travel window)
- Birth certificates (long form)
- Single-status affidavit (notarized; may require legalization/apostille)
- Divorce decree or death certificate (if applicable)
- Certified translations into Spanish (if required)
- Two adult witnesses with IDs (resort can provide if needed)
Submit Dominican Republic marriage license documents to your planner ~6 weeks before arrival for verification with the Civil Registry. After the ceremony, your Dominican Republic marriage certificate is processed and mailed to your home country.
Legal vs Symbolic (Quick Compare)
| Aspect | Legal Ceremony | Symbolic Ceremony |
|---|---|---|
| Paperwork | Required (notarized, translated, legalized) | None |
| Recognition | Legal worldwide | Ceremonial only |
| Prep Time | 4–6 weeks | 1–2 weeks |
| Cost (admin) | ~$300–$800 | $0–$300 (often included) |
Marriage requirements for foreigners (Dominican Republic): expect translations/apostilles and plan extra time for verification.
Budget-Friendly Dominican Weddings
Typical Dominican Republic wedding cost (2026) ranges $4,000–$10,000 depending on season, guest count, and décor. You’ll find affordable Dominican Republic wedding packages—and even Dominican Republic elopement packages—that keep luxury and logistics in balance.
| Budget Type | Average Price (USD) | Example Package |
|---|---|---|
| Elopement | $2,000–$3,500 | Symbolic ceremony + minimal décor |
| Mid-tier | $4,000–$7,500 | Legal wedding + private dinner |
| Luxury | $8,000–$15,000+ | Premium décor + cocktail hour + live music |
Save More: Aim for shoulder season, weekday dates, included décor packages, and Dominican Republic group wedding packages for room perks.
Embrace Dominican Wedding Traditions
Add cultural magic with Dominican wedding customs:
- Arras ceremony (Dominican) – exchange of 13 coins symbolizing prosperity and commitment
- Lasso ceremony – cord or lasso placed over the couple for unity
- La Hora Loca – “the crazy hour” with carnival-style performers, confetti, and dance
- Traditional Dominican wedding dress – lace, embroidery, locally inspired fabrics
- Dominican wedding food & music – rum cake, tropical seafood, rice & beans; bachata, merengue, and reggaeton playlists
Be Ready for Tropical Weather
- Reserve a covered/indoor Plan B (ballroom, terrace with wind screens)
- Schedule ceremonies at golden hour for cooler temps & perfect light
- Offer cooling stations: iced towels, shade umbrellas, water stations
- Choose wind-friendly décor (LED candles, secured florals) for your beach wedding Dominican Republic
Weather by Region (Quick Look):
Coastal areas = breezy + humid; Atlantic-side (Puerto Plata/Samaná) can see more showers than the Caribbean-side (Punta Cana/La Romana).
Transportation & Accessibility Tips
- Coordinate airport transfers via your resort app or planner (shared shuttles or private vans)
- Provide guests with arrival instructions and WhatsApp contact trees
- Keep the ceremony/reception walkable—wheelchair-friendly paths for grandparents and strollers
Destify partner resorts routinely bundle transfers, welcome desks, and group check-ins.
Local Culture, Food & Music
- Cuisine: tostones, mofongo-style dishes, fresh ceviche, tropical rum cocktails
- Music: live bachata/merengue, DJ sets that blend Latin & pop
- Experiences: rum tastings, cigar rolling, beach bonfires, cultural dance sets
How to Get Married in the Dominican Republic (Step-by-Step)
- Pick your region (Punta Cana / La Romana / Puerto Plata / Samaná)
- Compare all-inclusive wedding packages Dominican Republic and set your budget
- Decide legal vs symbolic wedding Dominican Republic
- If legal: compile marriage license documents; complete translations/legalization
- Send paperwork ~6 weeks prior; finalize headcount, rooming list, transfers
- Arrive, meet your coordinator, confirm marriage officiant and timeline
- Celebrate; complete marriage registration Dominican Republic post-ceremony
- Receive your marriage certificate by mail in the weeks following
Destination wedding legal requirements: Always confirm current document rules and Dominican Republic travel requirements 2026 (passport validity, entry forms) before booking flights.
Resort Packages & Where to Start
- Top Dominican Republic wedding resorts include options like Hyatt Ziva, Dreams properties, and Hard Rock Punta Cana (great for larger groups)
- Compare destination wedding packages Dominican Republic by inclusions: décor tiers, private reception, open bar, live music, photo credits
- Ask your planner which best wedding resorts Dominican Republic match your guest count, vibe, and budget
1. Choose the right time of year:
The best time to get married in the Dominican Republic is from December to April when the weather is dry and sunny. During these months, you can expect generally sunny and warm weather with low chances of rain.
Additionally, the government offices where you can acquire the necessary documents for marriage are open (should you pursue a legal marriage in the country), which can be closed or have shorter hours during the hurricane season from June to November. However, keep in mind that peak tourist season is also during the dry months, meaning that some venues and vendors may be more expensive or harder to book.
2. Find the perfect venue and wedding resort:
These wouldn’t be true Dominican Republic wedding tips without sharing the many beautiful resorts and venues to choose from in the Dominican Republic, so do your research and find one that suits your style and budget. Punta Cana is a popular destination for weddings due to its beautiful beaches, top-notch resorts, and warm weather all year round.
The area offers wedding packages and services that cater to all types of couples and budgets, and the backdrop of lush greenery and crystal-clear waters makes for a picturesque wedding setting. Many couples also choose to combine their wedding with a honeymoon trip at Punta Cana, adding to the allure of the location.
Some of our favorites include:
There are many beautiful resorts and venues to choose from in the Dominican Republic as it is a popular tourist destination. Some of the most popular resorts in the country include:
Excellence Punta Cana – a romantic resort for adults only, Excellence Punta Cana is located on a secluded beach and offers gourmet dining, relaxing spa treatments, and stunning ocean views.
Hard Rock Hotel & Casino Punta Cana – located on Macao Beach in Punta Cana, this rock-themed resort has a casino, a golf course, and numerous restaurants and bars.
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Punta Cana Weddings
Hard Rock Punta Cana
Pump up the volume on your Punta Cana destination wedding at this award-winning Hard Rock diamond set on the crystalline sands of Macao Beach. From out-of-this-world amenities ranging from the interactive Music Lab to a whopping seven wedding venues, your beachfront matrimony will blow yours and your guests’ minds.Hard Rock Punta Cana: Read more-
Venues: 13 -
Family Friendly -
30 Minutes
Package Costs: Included – $5,000 -
Hyatt Ziva Cap Cana – is a stunning all-inclusive resort located in Punta Cana, Dominican Republic. The property boasts an impressive range of amenities and features, making it a popular choice for couples, families, and solo travelers alike.
-
Punta Cana Weddings
Hyatt Ziva Cap Cana
This recently constructed resort is as pristine as the white sand Juanillo Beach it’s built atop — offering state-of-the-art facilities dotting the 40-acre enclosed domain that are guaranteed to make any destination wedding getaway truly one of a kind.Hyatt Ziva Cap Cana: Read more-
Venues: 7
-
Family Friendly
-
24 Minutes
Package Costs: $1,719 – $20,830 -
These are just a few of the many beautiful resorts and venues you can choose from in the Dominican Republic. Whether you’re looking for a relaxing beach vacation or an adventure-filled escape, there’s a perfect spot for you in this tropical paradise.
3. Hire a professional planner:
Covered within our Dominican Republic wedding tips is the importance of having a local wedding planner to help you navigate the logistics and legal requirements for getting married in the Dominican Republic. Luckily, at any of our chosen resorts, a dedicated wedding team comes free of charge with your selected wedding package. From the initial planning stages to your time at the resort, they’ll be with you every step of the way.
4. Get your paperwork in order:
You’ll need to provide your birth certificates, passports, and potentially divorce or death certificates to legally get married in the Dominican Republic if you’re hosting a legal ceremony. In general, to travel to the Caribbean, you must have a valid passport. Additionally, some countries require visas, vaccination records, or other specific documents.
These documents are necessary to prove your identity and permission to enter the country. Failure to provide the required paperwork could lead to being denied entry into the Caribbean, which could potentially ruin your travel plans. Although we wish we didn’t have to include this one, it’s still a very important wedding tip for Dominican Republic travelers.
5. Consider a local wedding tradition:
Incorporate local traditions and customs to add a unique and memorable touch to your wedding ceremony. Popular Dominican Republic wedding tips and traditions include:
- Arras: This is a custom where the groom places 13 coins in a tray or pouch and gives them to the bride as a symbol of his commitment to taking care of her financially.
- Las Cascaras: During the reception, guests will throw eggshells filled with confetti at the couple. It’s not only fun but it’s also believed to bring good luck to the newlyweds.
- Lasso: The lasso is a garland or rosary that’s been blessed by the Catholic Church. The groom loops this around the bride and then around himself, symbolizing their union and commitment to one another.
- Money Dance: During the reception, male guests will pay to dance with the bride. This is a way for the couple to earn extra money for their honeymoon or to help pay for their wedding.
- La Hora Loca: Translating to “The Crazy Hour,” this tradition is a wild carnival-like celebration with music, costumes, and party favors. It usually takes place near the end of the reception and is a way to send the couple off into marital bliss with a bang!
6. Cater to your guests:
Perhaps our most fun Dominican Republic wedding tip is to make the trip worthwhile for your guests! Make sure to provide accommodations and activities for your guests to enjoy during their stay on the island. Hire a live band or DJ to play music and get your guests dancing. Set up a photo booth with fun props and backdrops where guests can take goofy pictures.
Hire a caricature artist to create unique drawings of guests. Organize a scavenger hunt or trivia game across your wedding resort that highlights the stories and memories of the couple. Set up a dessert bar with a variety of treats for guests to enjoy. Get creative with the fun you can provide guests, and create memories that will last a lifetime.
7. Consider the weather and Have A Backup Plan:
Be prepared for rain or humidity by choosing a venue with indoor and outdoor options and providing umbrellas or fans for your guests. In case of unexpected weather or other issues, have a backup plan in place to ensure your wedding day runs smoothly.
8. Plan for transportation:
Arrange for transportation for your guests to and from the wedding venue and other activities. Destify allows for this to be done easily, and guests can even book directly from their dashboard.
9. Enjoy the scenery:
The Dominican Republic is a beautiful destination, so take advantage of the local scenery for your wedding photos and enjoy the island’s natural beauty.
FAQs — Our Most-Asked DR Wedding Questions
What are the legal requirements to get married in the Dominican Republic?
Passports, birth certificates, a notarized single-status affidavit, and translations/legalization as needed. Submit to your planner ~6 weeks before arrival; complete civil filing after the ceremony for your certificate.
How much does a destination wedding cost in the DR?
Plan for $4,000–$10,000 for package + small group, with savings in shoulder season and weekday dates.
What are the most popular wedding resorts?
Large all-inclusive brands in Punta Cana, luxe retreats in La Romana, culture-rich properties in Puerto Plata, and eco-lodges in Samaná.
When is the best time of year to get married?
December–April for dry weather. May–June and November offer balance between price and conditions.
Are same-sex weddings legal in the DR?
Legal recognition is not available; many couples host a symbolic wedding and handle legal paperwork at home.
Do I need to speak Spanish to get married there?
No—resorts provide bilingual planners and officiants; translations are handled for legal files.
How long do I need to be in the DR before my ceremony?
Your planner will advise based on filing/registration; symbolic ceremonies have no residency requirement.
What Dominican traditions can I include?
Arras, lasso, and La Hora Loca are guest-favorite cultural touches.
What are the best regions for destination weddings?
Punta Cana (beachfront ease), La Romana (upscale/private), Puerto Plata (culture/colonial), Samaná (eco/adventure).
Can guests book directly through Destify?
Yes—group coordination, room blocks, and transfer logistics can be managed with your Destify specialist.
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