Planning A Resort Wedding: A Step-By-Step Guide

Planning a resort wedding can be a fun and stress-free experience. From choosing an LGBTQ-friendly resort in Mexico to selecting a familiar location, there are many ways to create a memorable day. It's important to consider the costs for you and your guests, especially if your wedding is abroad. You can also plan extra events like cocktail hour or beach volleyball to make the most of your special day.

Choosing a resort

When choosing a resort for your wedding, there are a few things to consider. Firstly, you'll want to think about the location and how far your guests will have to travel. The longer the flight, the more it will cost for you and your guests, so it might be worth considering somewhere closer to home. If you're set on a destination wedding, you could look into resorts that offer cost-saving options for your guests.

It's also a good idea to check out the resort in person before making any plans, so you know exactly what you're getting. This will also give you a chance to see the quality of the resort and whether it meets your expectations. If you can't visit in person, try to find reviews from other couples who have had their weddings there.

Another thing to consider is the type of resort and what it offers. For example, do they have different priced options to suit your budget? Are there activities available for your guests, such as kayaking, snorkelling or beach volleyball? Is it LGBTQ-friendly?

Finally, don't forget to look into the legal formalities of getting married in your chosen destination. Check with the embassy or consulate of that country to find out what you need to do to make sure your wedding is legally recognised.

Planning the ceremony

If you're planning a destination wedding, it's a good idea to check out the location in advance so you know what you're getting into. You should also check in with the embassy or consulate of the country to find out about the legal formalities of getting married there.

When it comes to the ceremony itself, you and your partner should talk through every detail, from how you want to be pronounced to what readings resonate with you. You should also decide whether you want to have a big or small wedding, whether it will be outdoors or inside, and whether it will have a specific theme.

If you want to stretch out the fun of your wedding, you could plan some extra events on top of the main day, such as a cocktail hour or activities like kayaking, snorkelling or beach volleyball. However, remember that you don't have to plan any extra events if you don't want to.

Extra events

Planning a resort wedding can be a fun and stress-free experience. If you want to stretch out the fun of your wedding, plan some extra events on top of the main day. Your guests will love it, and you’ll have a blast too!

• Cocktail hour: You can combine it with your rehearsal dinner.
• Activities: Some resorts offer activities like kayaking, snorkelling, beach volleyball, and movies on the beach.
• Special breakfast: The day after the wedding, organise a special breakfast for your guests.
• Couples massage: Treat yourself and your partner to a relaxing massage.
• Mani and pedi: The bride can enjoy some extra pampering with a manicure and pedicure.
• Gifts: Surprise your guests with special gifts like a bottle of tequila and desserts delivered to their rooms.

Remember, you don’t have to plan any extra events if you don’t want to or if it doesn’t fit within your budget. The most important thing is to create a day that you and your partner will treasure forever.

LGBTQ-friendly resorts

Planning a wedding at a resort can be a fun and stress-free experience. If you're looking for LGBTQ-friendly resorts, there are a few things to keep in mind. First, consider the location. Mexico is a popular choice for destination weddings, with many LGBTQ-friendly resorts to choose from. You can also explore beach wedding locations in the Caribbean, such as Curacao, which has a great gay following.

When selecting a resort, it's important to think about your budget and the cost for your guests. Some resorts offer different priced options on the same property, which can be a great way to accommodate different budgets. It's also a good idea to check the legal formalities for getting married in your chosen destination and decide if you want your wedding to be a symbolic celebration or a legal union.

Once you've selected your resort, you can start planning the details. This includes choosing the ceremony and reception locations, as well as any extra events or activities you want to include, such as cocktail hour, beach volleyball, or a couples' massage. Don't forget to consider the decorations, flowers, and drinks, as well as any special touches like gifts or a special breakfast the next day.

If you're looking for LGBTQ-friendly resorts, some options to consider include the Marriott Condado in San Juan, Puerto Rico, and Blue Bay Dorado Villas Adult Only. Club Med is also known for being much more gay-friendly than other resorts. For a more luxurious experience, the Maldives offers world-class service and a seaplane transfer from the airport to your resort.

Legal formalities

Planning a resort wedding can be a lot of fun, but it's important to remember the legal formalities that come with it. Here are some key things to keep in mind:

Firstly, it's crucial to distinguish the type of ceremony you prefer – religious, civil, or symbolic. Each type of ceremony may have different legal requirements, so be sure to research the specific rules and regulations of your chosen destination. For example, some countries may have residency requirements that must be met for a legal marriage, while others may require specific official documentation to be completed prior to the ceremony.

Next, ensure that you have all the necessary documents and paperwork in order. This includes passports, travel documents, flight tickets, marriage certificates, legal documents, wedding insurance papers, travel insurance papers, supplier and venue documents, and a table plan. It is also a good idea to look into prenuptial agreements, especially if you are marrying abroad.

While it is not a legal requirement, hiring a wedding planner can save you a lot of time and effort, especially if they are located near your wedding destination. They can act as a liaison and help you navigate the local contacts and legal formalities. If you choose to plan the wedding yourself, be prepared for additional challenges and consider checking in with the embassy or consulate of your chosen country to understand the specific legal requirements.

Finally, remember that the legalities of marriage can vary depending on your citizenship. For example, if you are a UK citizen, you may find it simpler to make your wedding legally binding in the UK before hosting a symbolic ceremony at your chosen destination. This way, you can still enjoy the celebration at your dream location while ensuring that all the legal bases are covered.

Frequently asked questions