Destination Weddings and Honeymoons

 

The Getaway Wedding

Consider for a moment, the warm breeze, the sun sparkling in the sky, an exotic white sand beach – the perfect romantic backdrop for an exchange of vows. If this sounds like the ideal setting for your wedding, join the thousands of couples that are choosing what is known as the “Getaway’ or “Destination” wedding. It’s a booming business and is available in almost every vacation destination – from Colorado to Hawaii, on a cruise ship or an exotic port of call. There are no age limits, so it’s not an alternative reserved for the young. In fact, the Getaway Wedding has become a popular alternative for couples entering into a second marriage that have already had the pomp and circumstance of a traditional wedding.

If you are considering this option because you think it will save you the planning time and cost of traditional wedding, think again. Although there are package plans available, you still need to determine the destination, select the type of service and consider how guests, if any, will be accommodated. Costs are not going to be much different from a small wedding in your hometown and can incur considerably greater expenses for members of your wedding party and guests.

That said, the arrangements are no more complicated than organizing a wedding in your hometown. It’s time to seek out a good travel agent who will provide you many of the services of a wedding planner – helping you pick the location and making the arrangements.

In this section of our guide we are going to cover some of the popular locations, packages & pricing, legal & medical requirements and many of the issues you need to know to make your wedding successful.

How Far?

Although the Getaway wedding implies a tropical location, this is not the only option. If your choice is within Canadian borders, the planning will be much easier and legal/health considerations will be limited. If you have chosen another country, investigate legal and medical requirements thoroughly, before you leave Canada. Although it is beyond the scope of this guide to outline specific requirements we will provide you with an overview so you know what must be considered.

Legal Considerations

For most couples the first step is a visit to your lawyer. Although they may not immediately know what the legal requirements are for the country where you are planning to be married, they know where to reference the information. Using the Internet you can also obtain a lot of information from official government web sites. Be aware that this information may not always be up-to-date or complete and will vary from country to country.

If you are planning your wedding at a resort or on board a cruise ship, they will have answers to most of your questions and will be able to provide you with a list of the documentation required, copies of which can be sent to them. If on the other hand, you are doing it yourself, you may want a reference to a lawyer in the country where you are being married.

A legal wedding, in any country, requires specific documentation, some of which must be notarized (ask your lawyer for advice).

• Your identity must be verified – this is done with photo id or the passport.
• Citizenship must be determined – a copy of your birth certificate or your passport will clarify this.
• Sworn affidavit of single status. If you are divorced, you must have the divorce decree notarized and translated into the native language. Note: in some countries such as Mexico you may be required to show that it is at least one year since your divorce.
• If you are a widow/widower, a copy of your former spouse’s death certificate must be submitted (translation may be necessary with this document). Note: in some countries such as Mexico you may be required to show that it is at least one year since the death of your spouse.

In some countries a blood test is required, before marriage licenses are granted.

Countries vary in the length of time you must be resident in the country before the wedding. In the case of the Dominican Republic, this does not apply. In Mexico the term is five days and in France, 40 days.

After the ceremony there will be some documents for the bride and groom to sign that will be registered by the officiant, notary or wedding coordinator. You may not receive a copy of this document immediately or at all if you don’t request it. If you are using a wedding coordinator, arrange to have a copy of the marriage certificate before you return to Canada. The designated government office, in the destination country, could take several weeks to forward the official marriage certificate to you. If you have been married in a non-English speaking country the marriage certificate may require translation prior to being registered with Canadian authorities.

When traveling outside of Canada you should carry a valid passport. It is an ideal identification document for you and any child traveling with you, as photo identification is required. If you don’t have a passport, apply for one at least 7-8 weeks in advance. Issue normally requires 3-4 weeks.

If your wedding is held in a non-English speaking county, you may encounter document translation fees which may not be included in a package-price wedding. Find out if it’s required, realizing that negotiating the price is unlikely.

Be prepared to vacation at least two days at the resort before the wedding day. Several locations require a waiting period which you can use to relax and finalize documentation and arrangements.

Medical/Health Considerations

General Health Issues

Health services in other countries are not the same as in Canada and could be much less than what you are used to. Problems can be compounded by an inability to speak the native language. If you have existing health conditions, carry a document listing them as well as any allergies and drugs that you cannot take. If you are carrying prescription drugs, carry documentation to confirm this – ask your doctor or pharmacist for what’s appropriate. You don’t want them confiscated on entry if they look suspicious.

Immunizations

Talk to your doctor or Public health office for information on required or suggested immunization for the country you are traveling to. Expect that you will require shots for Tetanus, Hepatitis A, and for tropical destinations, Malaria.

Travel Insurance

This should be considered mandatory as the cost of a health emergency outside could financially ruin you if it is a major problem. Although a policy can usually be issued very quickly, talk to an insurance agent several weeks beforehand. Your premiums and eligibility are affected on your general health and existing medical problems. Apart from health issues, travel insurance is calculated based on the cost and length of your trip. Travel insurance can include several benefits to cover medical costs, accident, loss or damage to baggage, forced cancellation and/or interruption.

Cancellation Insurance

Cancellation insurance will protect you in case you need to cancel your trip for medical emergencies and may be part of your travel insurance plan. The resort or cruise operator may have their own plan which is usually limited to a credit which can be used at a future date. If the Canadian government issues a statement that it is unsafe to travel to the destination country, the costs are usually covered by this insurance.

Seasons and Geography

The Caribbean remains one of the most popular destinations for the Getaway Wedding for the same reasons it is popular for vacations: consistently good weather in the right seasons, affordable prices, options for almost any budget and a touch of the “exotic”. Cuba is extremely popular with Canadians and not just because of its comparatively low prices.

The Dominican Republic offers sun, sand and value for your dollar. Mexico offers history and culture under sun drenched blue skies. The lush green landscapes and turquoise waters of St. Lucia and Jamaica lure many couples to their islands. The Mayan Riviera, which is extremely popular with Europeans and Americans, has recently caught the interest of Canadians. These are not the only tropical locations – Hawaii and the Polynesian Islands are definite options if you are looking for something even more exotic or off the beaten path.

Inclement or extremely hot weather can impact your wedding plans and are important considerations if your destination is tropical. Ask the resort operator or your travel agent about typical weather conditions. The prime wedding months in Canada, June-July, are usually too hot for most tropical locations. Plan your wedding the spring, autumn or winter if your destination is an equatorial climate. Resort or cruise operators do not issue refunds due to inclement weather except in disastrous circumstances and if they do, it is usually in the form of credits for future use.

Guest Considerations

If you are inviting family and friends, consider the effect of climate and location. Extremely hot weather could be too much for older family members and children. Difficult travel conditions are also a deterrent. Attendance at your wedding should not be a test of strength and will for your guests. However, if you have your heart set on a location that has significance to you, consider a very private wedding and hold the celebrations later when you return home.

Ceremony Options

In order to be legal, most countries require that a Civil Ceremony be performed which can be followed up with a religious ceremony where available. The ceremony is presided over by a licensed Officiant, Justice of the Peace or a government official. Most resorts have non-denominational clergy whose services they include in the wedding package. If you are taking the do-it-yourself approach, contact the Canadian embassy or consulate for information on how to find someone to conduct the ceremony.

In many countries the service must be delivered in the native tongue to be legal, which means you need an interpreter present if you don’t speak the language. No less than two adult witnesses are required which can be provided by the resort if you do not have a wedding party. Vows are generally predetermined if being delivered in a foreign language otherwise you can usually choose to write your own to personalize the ceremony.

Attire

Destination weddings imply less formality than a traditional wedding at home so you may want to forget the tuxedo and formal wedding dress for more casual clothing. If your destination is tropical keep the climate in mind. If you have ever been to the Caribbean, you know the emphasis is on comfort and clothes that keep you cool. If you have a formal dress in mind, choose a lighter fabric and-or shorter length. Purchase your dress or gown a few weeks before leaving on your getaway to allow time for alterations.

Formal wedding gowns don’t travel well and add considerable weight to your luggage so you need to pack appropriately. It may be possible to ship items to the resort in advance of your arrival but it can be expensive. If you are concerned about loss of luggage loss or delay, take your wedding outfit with you as carry-on luggage.

Comfort is also essential for men so the traditional black tux is seldom worn in tropical settings. You’ve chosen an alternative to the traditional wedding so why not embrace it, and wear clothes that suit the setting. At the same time, keep in mind what your bride is wearing. Even if you are planning informal dress for the wedding, take at least one sport coat or light-weight suit. Many high-class restaurants expect men to wear jackets to dinner although neck ties are not always required.

General Considerations

Planning a wedding in a foreign country requires a considerable amount of time and effort – a major reason why couples commonly prefer a package plan. If you are choosing the do-it-yourself approach, here are a few ideas that may help planning.

Choose a country that you have visited before. You may already have the location in mind and know what it provides.
Contract a wedding planner in the foreign country. They should be able to provide similar services to those you would expect in Canada and will act as your agent to make the necessary arrangements.

If you have friends or relatives living in the foreign country, enlist their assistance to find an appropriate location and person to conduct the ceremony.
Embrace the location and setting. There’s no sense traveling to an exotic only location and then vainly attempt to recreate the type of wedding you would have at home.

The Packaged Getaway

If you have chosen this option, and most couples do, a travel agent is essential to making it work. They’ll help you evaluate the many options and packages available as well as act as an intermediary when you are making arrangements. Select an agent at least 12-months in advance and expect to be actively involved in the arrangements no less than 6-months ahead. As with booking reception locations in your community, those who book early have the best choices.

Here is some of the information the travel agent needs to know.

• a destination country or general region.
• the date/month you prefer.
• your budget and subsequently how elaborate you wish your wedding to be.
• how many guests will be traveling with you.
• how long you and your guests are planning to stay.
• location – resort or cruise ship.

Armed with this information, the travel agent will help you find the right location and wedding package. Information is provided in resort brochures and most have web sites with extensive information. Web sites usually include information on everything from legal requirements to average weather conditions.

Resort and cruise companies catering to marrying couples, usually have designated wedding planners to handle the arrangements. Communication is by email and phone and can be completed quite quickly if you have a clear idea of what you want. The final arrangements happen when you are on-site so if at all possible, plan to arrive a few days ahead of time. Large resorts may have several locations available so you can make your choice when you see what is available. This is less the case with cruise ships where options are more limited.

The Resort Wedding

Resorts that cater to weddings provide a range of packages that includes all the basics and allow for you to upgrade at an additional cost. Here’s an example of a package from Sandals, a very popular getaway wedding provider.

• Two bottles of house champagne
• Single-tier wedding cake
• Wedding keepsake memento
• Bridal Bouquet and Groom’s Boutonniere
• Decorated table for signing of wedding documents
• Wedding Ceremony performed at either our one-of-a-kind wedding gazebo or on our private beach right on the Caribbean Sea
• All license fees and ministers fees
• Application and processing of marriage license
• Special guest room rates for your guests
• Seating preference in our dining outlets including fine fining in Luna di Mare and Three Palms for bridal party on the night of your wedding (based on availability)
• Thirty-six 5×7 professional photographs and the negatives.
• Bridal manicure, pedicure, shampoo, condition and basic hairstyle
• Deluxe ocean view room upgrade for bride and groom for your entire stay
• Candlelit welcome dinner for two in Luna di Mare and Three Palms Restaurant with bottle of house wine or champagne
• All taxes and service charges included.

Typical prices for this type of ceremony and reception including the additional incentives are in the range of $1,500 USD. Note: This does not include regular accommodation, air fare and numerous other expenses. Here is another example of a package – in this case a small resort in Fiji.

• Registration fee
• Transport to/from registration office
• Minister/Marriage officer
• Double-tier wedding cake
• Champagne for bridal toast
• Option of lovo – (Fijian Night of Dinner cooked in the earth oven)
• Option of choir for the service
• Option of warriors to escort the Bride
• Meke – Fijian song and dance night
• Floral decorations for open-air weddings on the beach or decks overlooking the ocean
• Bouquet, tiara, boutonniere, salusalu (Lei), for the bridal couple
• Use of the traditional Fijian clothing (Tapa Cloth)
• Champagne picnic lunch on an outer island – (weather permitting)

Price: $1,375 USD

A deposit is required when you make your initial booking. The amount varies with the company but is in the range of $150-$200 and is non-refundable. The balance of the cost is usually due no less than 45 days prior to departure. In most cases, this payment is also non-refundable so you will be going on vacation even if the wedding is cancelled.

Resorts prefer a lead time of several months to organize your wedding but some specialize in “spur-of-the-moment” arrangements and can put it together in as little as 24 hours. The more guests, the longer the reservation time required and you may be limited by availability especially in the high season. Group purchase plans may be available for parties of 14 or more people. If you are planning to include children or teens, confirm in advance that the resort allows them. If they do, they may qualify for different rates, and have special events for them to participate in. Some very small resorts actually allow you to book the entire facility but this luxury comes with a considerable price.

The Free Wedding?

Some resorts offer a free wedding within a minimum stay period. Here’s an example from Sandals.

• Personal wedding coordinator
• Picturesque wedding location
• Preparation of documentation
• “Just Married” T-shirts
• One 5”x7” wedding photograph
• Continental breakfast in bed
• Bridal bouquet & boutonniere
• Caribbean Wedding Cake
• Honeymoon candlelight dinner
• Marriage officiant
• Champagne & hors d’oeuvres reception for bride, groom and 4 guests (approx. 1 hour for ceremony and reception)

This offer requires a minimum 5-night stay and does not include administrative and mandatory government licensing fees. If you are looking for a comparatively low-cost option that includes the wedding at a price you would expect to pay for a honeymoon, this may be your best choice.

Ceremony

Larger resorts have extensive grounds and can offer several locations for the actual ceremony: a wedding gazebo in the garden or over the pool, a special waterfront site or the sand on the beach. Some resorts have special features such as grassy outdoor terraces, waterfalls and gardens or may offer options such as a yacht for a sunset sail ceremony. The area for the ceremony is normally cordoned off to other guests but expect that some settings will generate curious onlookers.

If you want to incorporate special items in the ceremony like a cake topper, cake knife, bouquet, or candles discuss this with the wedding coordinator beforehand. They may have something suitable on site for you to use, thus reducing your packing woes.

When you are booking a resort for your wedding you also need to consider what it offers in accommodation, activities, food and the overall price. You are not simply booking a reception area in which you will spend a few hours. If you are spending your honeymoon at the same location you need to consider what it offers after the ceremony is over.

Here is a list of questions to ask your travel agent before you book your reservation.

• What are the available package plans and what is included for the price?
• How far in advance should you book?
• What are the payment options?
• What are the cancellation conditions? Is cancellation insurance available?
• What accommodation is available and what are the prices?
• What activities and attractions are there?
• What are the typical weather conditions?
• Does the resort cater to weddings and do they have a designated person for this job?
• How will you communicate with this person?
• What services will they provide?

Once you have determined a likely resort, you should contact the designated wedding planner with specific questions about what is included in their wedding package and the options you have to customize it to your tastes.

The Cruise Wedding

There are almost as many options available to couples interested in exchanging vows aboard ship or in an exotic port-of-call. Tropical cruises remain the most popular with the focus on the Caribbean although the Mediterranean should also be considered. For the adventurer, your cruise to Alaska could have you married atop of Herbert Glacier or in the Rainforest Glacier Gardens.

Cruise operators providing this service will have a designated wedding coordinator who will be the person who makes the necessary arrangements and your primary point of contact. The offerings are similar to what you would expect from a resort.

Here’s a typical example from Carnival Cruise Lines:

Ceremony performed by a non-denominational officiant
Bridal bouquet with matching boutonniere for the groom
Sparkling wine & keepsake champagne flutes
Wedding cake with keepsake topper
Cake Cutting service and champagne toast
Wedding March music and photography service

Price from $750 USD.

This type of low-cost option does not include photographs and can vary with the type of cruise.

Here’s another example from Royal Caribbean:

Priority check-in for bridal couple and sailing guests
Escort for the bridal couple by a Royal Romance Wedding Coordinator from the pier to the stateroom
Ideal wedding location onboard a Royal Caribbean ship
Romantic wedding ceremony
Wedding officiant
Personal wedding coordinator at the ceremony
Romantic recorded ceremony music
Sailing day ports: Simple, elegant bridal bouquet
Island Locations: A tropical wild flower bridal bouquet
Groom’s boutonniere with single matching bloom
Keepsake Royal Romance marriage certificate
Royal Romance wedding cake for the bride & groom
Bottle of Royal Romance champagne with a personalized label including your name, wedding date & ship
Professional shipboard photography service for the ceremony, cake cutting & champagne toast (1 hour)
One 8×10 wedding photograph (additional photographs may be purchased onboard)
One 8×10 Royal Caribbean silver plated frame

Price from $1350 USD.

Remember, these prices do not include the cruise portion of your trip and air fare to departure destination. A moderately priced one-week cruise excluding flight and port taxes, ranges in price from a low $700 to over $2,000 and is affected largely by the onboard accommodation.

Documentation requirements are similar to those for a resort wedding and will be based on where the wedding actually takes place. Don’t assume that this will be aboard ship. Some cruise lines require that the ceremony occur before departure in which case it will generally be a simple civil ceremony.

Allowing for Guests

Cruise weddings may limit the number of guests you invite both due to cost and the fact that some people are not comfortable at sea, regardless the size of the ship. The amenities onboard are extensive so there is generally something for everyone.

Here is a list of questions to ask your travel agent or cruise line representatives before you book your reservation:

Are port charges included in our price?
Can we specify that our cabin has a double/queen size bed?
Does the cabin have a porthole, is there an unobstructed view or does it open to a walkway?
Is the cabin located near a dance hall, children’s area or elevator?
What is the cost of shore excursions and must they be booked in advance?
Are there any specialty restaurants and is there a surcharge?
What type of entertainment is provided?
What is the average age of passengers?
Is there a theme to this cruise?
How many formal dinners will there be during the cruise?
What is considered standard dinner attire?
How much cash should I bring for extras, such as liquor or port fees? Can I use my credit cards for these things?

The Business Side

The conditions for booking a cruise are similar to those for a resort as outlined previously – the first caveat, book as soon as possible. Expect to pay an initial deposit of a few hundred dollars which is non-refundable if you cancel. The balance is usually due 60-days in advance of departure and wedding plans should be confirmed no less than 45-days ahead. Final arrangements will be completed when you meet the wedding coordinator on board.

Las Vegas, the Marriage Capital of the World

From an intimate affair for two, to an elaborate event graced by a rhinestone-studded Elvis impersonator, Las Vegas Chapels offer it all. It’s the home of the speedy, if not glamorous wedding. Choose between a Cape Cod and old Hollywood style chapel and be wed for about $250 USD.

Chapels, really commercial store-front type operations, can provide everything from a location; rental attire and some even sell the rings. Wedding packages often include licensing information, a limousine from your hotel to the chapel, a few photos with negatives, garter, flowers and a small cake. For a little extra you can receive a video or DVD of the blessed event and some provide live video over the Internet.

Gambling casinos also offer wedding services with chapels and gardens as settings with prices starting around $500 USD. Packages range from the simple to the extravagant and may include a free nights stay, spa treatments and dining coupons. Don’t forget to gamble a little while you’re there, complimentary chips could be part of your package too.

In Las Vegas, the Clark County Marriage License Bureau is open almost around the clock in order to grant marriage licenses to couples who just cannot wait to get married. Currently the license fee is $55.00 USD.

Then there is the simplest ceremony of all, the $40.00 (plus the cost of license) drive-thru wedding options – only in Vegas, baby!