Getting engaged is a fun and exciting time in couples’ lives. Once a couple is ready to tie the knot, they need to first decide how they are going to do it. There are many different choices! They can go to the courthouse. They can opt for a traditional wedding. Or, perhaps, they will join a rising trend and decide that a destination wedding is the way to go!Couples may be surprised that there are different types of destination weddings – legal and symbolic. Let’s look at both types as you decide which is right for your big day!

Legal Destination Weddings

A legal destination wedding is just that. A couple is literally legally married in anther destination. Religious ceremonies would fall into this category. The venue may also vary based on the type of ceremony. For example, a Catholic ceremony would be held inside a chapel.

Couples who want a legal destination wedding should be prepared to meet the requirements of their chosen destination. Almost all destinations have specific residency requirements for weddings. Some, such as Mexico, also require that the couple undergoes a blood test before tying the knot. Destinations will also require a marriage license. Specific requirements can vary based on destination so it is best to check those before having your heart set on a specific location!

Another thing to be aware of is that your marriage certificate will be ready some period after your ceremony. This is no different than a traditional wedding. The thing to be aware of is that your marriage certificate could be in another language other than English. Once again, this will vary based on the specific destination. If it is in another language, it will most likely need to be translated once it is received.

Symbolic Destination Weddings

A symbolic destination wedding is not legally binding. The ceremony symbolizes the act of getting married. The guests in attendance do not actually get to watch the moment the couple ties the knot. Couples may be married before or after their symbolic destination wedding. The actual requirements may vary based on the resort. If a couple finds it important to have their guests witness the moment they are married, a symbolic destination wedding would not be the right choice.

Like a legal destination wedding, a symbolic destination wedding usually has specific residency requirements. These requirements are usually not as stringent as those for a legally binding wedding though! Residency requirements may also vary based on the resort.

In general, there is one tiny difference between a legal and symbolic destination wedding ceremony. That will be with how the wedding officiant presents the couple at the end of the ceremony. The rest of the ceremony should be nearly identical.

After deciding on a destination wedding, you need to determine if you prefer a legal or symbolic destination wedding. Once you make that determination, you can begin researching different destinations and resorts for your special day!

Let Royal Treatment Travel assist with the destination wedding of your dreams! Our Travel Advisors can help find the best destination and resort for your wedding. Reach out to your Travel Advisor or contact us to get started!

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