Are you getting married in Mexico or the Caribbean? One thing you’ll have to consider is what kind of wedding ceremony are you interested in. Not all destinations are equal here. Be sure to choose what is right for you. Read on to learn more.
What’s the difference?
First thing’s first. What exactly is the difference between a legal wedding ceremony and a symbolic wedding ceremony?
A legal ceremony is when you follow the laws of the destination you are traveling to and receive a marriage license from them. A legal ceremony is recognized in the US as a legal marriage when you file the paperwork with your license bureau. A legal ceremony typically requires more paperwork, a judge, additional fees, and occasional blood tests.
A symbolic ceremony has no legal bearing and makes up over 80% of destination weddings. Typically, the bride and groom will go to their local clergy or courthouse, file the license and legally marry before they leave on their wedding trip. They are already legally married when they travel, making for a smooth and easy destination wedding. The best part about this is guests will never know the difference! The legal and symbolic ceremony is the same, just minus the license.
What are my destination’s ceremony requirements?
Mexico – A legal ceremony must be performed by a judge. A blood test is required. The blood test is for STD’s and if the test is positive, a marriage license will not be granted. A symbolic ceremony has no legal bearing and is performed by a non-denominational minister, wedding coordinator, family friend or relative. The bride and groom will receive a symbolic marriage certificate without a legal license.
Dominican Republic – If you decide to wed here, go for a symbolic ceremony. For a legal wedding, all paperwork must be notarized and translated into Spanish, which will typically add an additional $1000 or more to your wedding costs. Only the judge can legally marry you, so you’re at the mercy of his schedule. Symbolic is definitely the way to go in the Dominican Republic.
Jamaica – Ceremonies performed by a minister are legally recognized in Jamaica. Jamaica is one of the easiest countries to be legally married in.
Aruba – A civil ceremony performed by a judge in the City Hall are the only legally recognized wedding ceremonies in Aruba. If a religious ceremony is requested, it will be performed by a non-denominational minister, with no legal binding.
Costa Rica – Same as Aruba, Costa Rica offers legal ceremonies if they are performed by a judge. Religious ceremonies or vow renewals will hold no legal bearing, as they are considered symbolic.
To keep stress-levels down, we highly recommend a symbolic ceremony. However, we know that couples sometimes want just one main wedding date, which is understandable. What if...
...you get legally married on your wedding date, but do it the year before your destination wedding? For example, if we are planning your wedding for May 20, 2026, why not legally get married on May 20, 2025? This will help you with things like changing your name, health insurance and a passport name.
or
...you have a small, legal ceremony at home for immediate family and include important people, like grandparents, who may not be able to travel internationally for your destination wedding. Perhaps choose your parents or grandparents wedding date to honor them with your legal ceremony.
It's ok to worry about the date! You're not alone. Weigh the pros and cons and make the decision that is best for you. It is your wedding, and we're happy to support your choices. Need to talk it through more? Sign up for a call with us today!
