Destination weddings are popular in Costa Rica not only for the incredible natural scenery, but because there is an established tourist infrastructure that can help or completely plan the perfect wedding. There are many types of destinations to choose from; volcanoes, mountains or beach all with numerous adventure activities available to entertain guests. From budget to luxury all-inclusive resorts, Costa Rica has something for every style of wedding and has the added perk of being in the perfect honeymoon spot.

 

 

Here are some tips to help you plan that special day and start making memories:

1. Time of Year- Please keep in mind the time of year when planning the marriage. If you are on a budget consider hosting your wedding during low season when prices go down considerably. High season is typically November- April, and July and August, when prices will be costlier and very advanced booking is advised.

2. Remember Costa Rica is rainforest- which means there can be rain on the big day. If you are planning a beach wedding during the rainy season you should have a backup plan in case the rain is not letting up. For example, a covered patio with a view of the ocean is an attractive alternative and may be even more comfortable for guests without sand and waves. Keep climate in mind when picking a wedding dress and wedding attire for guests, and terrain when choosing footwear.

3. Know your style to determine best location- The Pacific side is better suited to those looking for luxury and all-inclusive resorts — location like Papagayo or Playa Hermosa might just be the dream spot. Nature lovers? A small boutique hotel in the south Caribbean or south Pacific might be a better choice. For a cooler climate, consider the mountains of Monteverde, a Central Valley Coffee plantation, or maybe Arenal with its iconic volcano and waterfalls.

4. Plan a pre-wedding trip- A pre-wedding trip is ideal to scout out locations, venues, sample menu items, and get the true feel for the big day. Remember that time moves a little differently in Costa Rica, and a break from the fast pace is one of the reasons Costa Rica is a relaxing destination, so don’t expect everything to go like clockwork.

5. Let your guests know in advance- Give invitees plenty of notice to get better deals on flights and take vacation time from work with a “Save the Date” notification before the invitations are sent.

6. A local wedding planner is a must-  Local help is a must for a bride and groom outside of the country, especially for non-Spanish speakers to assist in planning details, getting quotes, organizing transportation from the airport for guests, tours and fun activities, music, catering, legalities, and a wedding photographer. Planners stay in touch with regular Skype calls or emails to ensure that the little details fit with the happy couple’s vision of their day. Many resorts and hotels include a planner in a wedding package and standard rates are usually 15 to 20% of the total budget.

The actual process of getting married in Costa Rica is straightforward. Destination wedding couples should check what the processes are to have the marriage certificate authenticated in their home country.

Requirements for getting married in Costa Rica:

1. Valid passport.

2. Two witnesses for the ceremony and to sign the legal document who are not family members.

3. Costa Rica is a Catholic country and only priests, judges and lawyers can legally marry a couple. For a religious ceremony of another faith, a lawyer must also be present.

4. The lawyer will fill out a questionnaire to complete the sworn statement containing civil status, occupation, place and date of birth, parents’ names and any previous marriage(s) and date(s) of divorce. This statement will need to be officially notarized.

5. There is also a very outdated law that women must be divorced for 300 days before their next marriage, or take a pregnancy test. This is to prevent any children from one marriage being born into the next.

Once the papers are filed it usually takes up to 3 months for a certificate to be issued.

Every wedding day should be special, so why not make incredible memories with a Costa Rican destination wedding?