Destination Wedding Ceremony Types
Symbolic ceremonies allow couples a more affordable, hassle-free experience. Marriage licenses are obtained in the U.S. before hosting your ceremony in paradise.
Civil ceremonies are necessary for Catholic weddings and for couples who want a legal ceremony at their chosen destination. This type of ceremony has additional fees and requirements.
Symbolic Ceremony
More affordable- Most popular
- Same-sex friendly
- Commitment ceremony
- Non-denominational minister
- U.S. marriage license
- The couple arrive 2 – 3 days prior
Rules: Marriage Laws by State
Civil Ceremony
- Requires extra-legal and notary fees
- Notary fees
- Documentation translation
- Legal ceremony
- Performed by judge
- Catholic ceremonies
- The couple arrive 3 – 4 business days prior
Rules: Jamaica | Mexico | Dominican Republic | Costa Rica | Hawaii | U.S. | Marriage Abroad
Specifics
Civil ceremony requirements will vary by country, just briefly touched upon above, including additional fees and paperwork. Examples include birth certificates, blood tests, and single-status declarations. Same-sex weddings are not permitted in every country; Jamaica does not allow them, and they can only be performed on private property in the Dominican Republic.
Recommendations
At Destify, we specialize in matching couples with the perfect destination and resort to fulfill all of their ceremony needs. Some of our preferred brands for same-sex weddings include AM Resorts, Royalton, Sandos, Hard Rock, Alsol, Playa, and RIU Resorts. For Catholic ceremonies, we recommend the classic Spanish chapel at Majestic Colonial, the elegant Mediterranean-inspired chapel at Dreams Tulum, and the stunning oceanfront chapel at Wyndham Alltra Cancun with its panoramic glass.