What is a Symbolic Wedding?
A Symbolic wedding ( resort/hotel term) just means that the couple would be legally married at home either before or after they come to a foreign destination. Most of our brides choose this option. There would be a Ceremony that is the same as a Legal Wedding performed by a non-denominational wedding officiant instead of a Justice of the Peace. There are no time restrictions, bloodwork or extra paperwork involved in a Symbolic Marriage.
Bear in mind that this type of ceremony does not replace in any way the binding legal civil marriage. A symbolic ceremony is the promise of love between two people. It is the exact same as a regular wedding ceremony, including the exchange of vows and exchange of rings. ... Most of destination wedding couples decide to have a symbolic ceremony, and for them this is the actual wedding; the legal paperwork is then only a formality (same for the renewal of vows ceremony).
What if we want a ceremony that honor a particular religion or one that does not bring in religion at all?
Most hotels do not provide an official of a specific religion but feel free to bring your own. If you do not want any religious mention, you just have to let them know.
Will my guests know that I am already legally married?
No, not unless you want them to know. Your guests will feel as though they are at your wedding and will not know that you had performed the legal part of your wedding before or after the wedding day here!
Will we receive a certificate for a Symbolic Ceremony?
Not a legal one, but the Minister will provide one with the date, your names and location of ceremony. This will act as a reminder of your special day.
Can I choose either a Symbolic or Legal ceremony as part of my package?
Yes, you can choose the type of ceremony you like, symbolic ceremonies are included in your package. Legal or Civil ceremonies. Please be informed that weddings in Mexico and the DR require a Spanish ceremony if you get married legally in their country. They do provide a translator for your guests but the Officiant will speak Spanish.