Punta Cana is one of the most popular destination wedding locations in the Caribbean. Its convenient location, tropical weather, and pristine white sand beaches make it an attractive option for those who want to get married on the beach or in lush gardens surrounded by palm trees.
However, not everyone wants or needs a legal wedding to be performed. In fact, many couples prefer to get married in a simple ceremony at home to avoid the hassle of providing legal documentation to a foreign country and then opt for a beautiful symbolic ceremony with a destination wedding to get the beautiful pictures they want, along with a combined wedding and honeymoon experience.
So, what does a symbolic wedding mean in Punta Cana? Below, we’ll discuss what a symbolic wedding ceremony really means and how you and your future spouse can plan for one. You’ll understand how these ceremonies differ from legal ceremonies and what you can do to create the wedding you’ve always dreamed of in a tropical location.
What Is a Symbolic Wedding Ceremony in Punta Cana?
First, you are likely asking, “What does a symbolic wedding mean in Punta Cana?” A symbolic ceremony allows couples to celebrate their commitment through a meaningful public affirmation in front of family and friends anywhere in the world. It is not legally binding and requires a civil ceremony or other legal ceremony to legalize the marriage.
However, these weddings are often used by couples who want a beautiful ceremony with fantastic pictures and a built-in honeymoon experience, but don’t want the stress of making sure they have the right paperwork and get it submitted in time. You will be able to create your ideal wedding with less stress, working with one of our Certified Destination Wedding Specialists.
You can easily have a small legal ceremony in your hometown and then enjoy the thrill of a beachside wedding in a tropical location like Punta Cana, surrounded by your closest family members and friends.
What Is a Legal Ceremony in Punta Cana?
While many couples choose a symbolic ceremony for their destination wedding, that isn’t the only option available in Punta Cana. If you don’t mind the extra steps and paperwork required for a legal ceremony, you can get legally married during your stay at your resort.
To complete a legal ceremony, you will need to provide documents like passports, birth certificates, affidavits of marriage eligibility, and possibly others. These documents, besides the passports, will need to be translated into Spanish and legalized by the proper authorities.
When you take these steps to get married in Punta Cana, your marriage will be legally recognized everywhere. Be sure to check if you need to register your marriage certificate in your home country.
RELATED: How to Get Married in Punta Cana: A Complete Guide
Why Should You Have a Symbolic Ceremony in Punta Cana?
One of the first questions people have when they hear about a symbolic ceremony is why they would choose to go through the motions without the legalization of the marriage itself. However, there are many good reasons why couples choose to have a symbolic ceremony for their destination wedding in Punta Cana. Here are some of the top reasons to consider it:
- Less stress without worrying about legal paperwork
- Fewer requirements to follow
- More flexibility in your wedding planning
- Lower costs than getting legally married
- Complete personalization, including the details of the ceremony
- A simpler experience for your guests
Even though a symbolic ceremony doesn’t make you married from a legal standpoint, it’s easy to complete the legal side of your marriage at your local courthouse before or after your trip. Instead, you get to spend your time focusing on enjoying your destination wedding.
How a Symbolic Ceremony in Punta Cana Works
Before you decide to have a symbolic ceremony in Punta Cana, it’s best to understand how the process works, so you can determine if it’s right for you. When you’re planning your symbolic ceremony, you must first choose an all-inclusive package at the resort of your choice.
Working with a Certified Destination Wedding Specialist will guide you through this process and help you narrow down your choices to find the perfect fit. They can recommend the add-ons that will help you accomplish your vision, while keeping your wedding within your budget.
Once you find the package you want, you must choose a date for your wedding. Be sure to book early, especially if you want to get married during the peak season between December and April. You may want to consider the shoulder season to save money and guarantee your date is available.
As part of your symbolic ceremony, you will be able to choose the officiant you want, whether you prefer a religious officiant, a non-denominational officiant, or even a friend or family member to perform the ceremony. You will be able to write your own vows if you want and implement any number of rituals or ceremonies that you see fit for your wedding. The beauty of a symbolic ceremony is the flexibility, allowing you to create whatever you envision.
After all the planning and scheduling is complete, your on-site wedding coordinator will continue to work with you from your arrival through to the ceremony and any features you add after the wedding. They are there to answer your questions and ensure your special day goes exactly how you planned it.
How to Make Your Wedding Ceremony Unique
As you build the wedding of your dreams, here are a few ideas to help you make your symbolic wedding unique to you as a couple:
- Write custom vows. Don’t worry about using a template or following traditional vows.
- Design a personalized ritual that means something to you, whether it’s cultural or something that just represents you both.
- Choose meaningful music that sets the tone for your ceremony and highlights your unique love story.
- Consider a sunrise or sunset ceremony to take advantage of the unique lighting.
- Get your guests involved in the ceremony. Guests can read something special, give a blessing, or tell a story about the couple.
- Implement local flowers or music to give your wedding a special touch that reflects the local culture.
- Give your guests a keepsake that helps them remember your wedding. Favors are common at weddings. At a destination wedding, choose something beach themed.
The ideas for customizing your symbolic wedding ceremony are endless. You can do whatever you like to ensure your day is memorable and matches what you’ve always wanted. The more creative you are, the more personal your wedding will feel.
Start Planning Your Symbolic Ceremony in Punta Cana Today!
Now that you know the differences between a symbolic ceremony and a legal ceremony, you can start planning your special day. Our Certified Destination Wedding Specialists are ready to answer your guests and help you make the best decision to create a beautiful wedding that reflects who you are as a couple and the love story that has led up to this point.
When you’re ready to get started, fill out our online wedding planning form, and we’ll connect you with one of our Certified Destination Wedding Specialists to start the planning process.
We’re excited to be a part of your special day and aim to make it as unique as you are!
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