Are you planning a legal or symbolic destination wedding in Mexico or the Caribbean? Not all destinations are equal when it comes to choosing between a legal or symbolic destination wedding. Be sure to choose what is right for you.
Read on to learn more….
Legal or Symbolic Destination Wedding?
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 and receive a marriage license from them. This type of ceremony typically requires more paperwork, a judge, additional fees, and occasional blood tests. You will have to present your legal paperwork to your license bureau when you return home so they can file the marriage license for you.
A symbolic ceremony has no legal recognition yet makes up approximately 80% of all destination weddings. Typically, the bride and groom go to their local clergy or courthouse. They file the license and by the time they set off traveling, they are already legally wed. This makes for a smooth and easy destination wedding. Fundamentally, the best part of all is that guests can never tell the difference! Legal and symbolic ceremonies are the same, just minus the license.
What are my destination’s ceremony requirements?
Mexico – A legal ceremony must be performed by a judge. Besides that, a blood test for STDs is necessary. A symbolic ceremony has no legal bearing. A non-denominational minister, wedding coordinator, family friend, or relative will perform the service. Consequently, the bride and groom will receive a symbolic marriage certificate without a legal license.
Dominican Republic – If you decide you want to marry here, opt for a symbolic ceremony. Most importantly, for legal recognition, you will need to notarize all paperwork and translate it into Spanish. Therefore, this will add an additional $500-1000 to your wedding costs. Because only a judge can legally marry you, you’re at the mercy of his schedule. Therefore a symbolic ceremony is definitely the way to go in the Dominican Republic.
Jamaica – If a minister conducts the ceremony, it is legal in Jamaica. Jamaica is one of the easiest countries to obtain a legal marriage.
Bahamas – Same as Jamaica. However, If the ceremony is civil, the minister will make no mention of God. Symbolic weddings are also a popular option here.
Aruba – The only wedding ceremonies with legal recognition in Aruba are civil ceremonies. You will need to consign a judge to marry you at City Hall. Religious ceremonies are performed by a non-denominational minister, with no legal binding.
Costa Rica – Same as Aruba, Costa Rica offers legal ceremonies only if a judge performs the service. Religious ceremonies or vow renewals hold no legal bearing as they are merely symbolic.
Is your ceremony destination not on our list? If so, feel free to contact our destination wedding specialists for further information and guidance!