7 Destinations For an Easy & Uncomplicated Destination Wedding

With destination weddings becoming an increasingly preferred choice by more and more people, the possibilities for the realization of one’s dream wedding are rendered boundless. A wide array of destinations can be chosen from, and an itinerary in alignment with a save-the-date can be crafted. The location can be selected, and every detail can be meticulously attended to. Nevertheless, should a legal destination wedding be the desired path, consideration of these 7 astounding destinations that offer ease and simplicity is recommended.

The Caribbean islands are favored as the top choice for wedding ceremonies, as they afford couples the opportunity to revel in a perennially warm and tropical climate. Furthermore, an assortment of outdoor activities, such as beach parties, sunset ceremonies, and water sports, can be enjoyed, imparting an element of excitement and merriment to the wedding festivities. Specifically, they offer the ideal backdrop for a wedding, ensuring a memorable experience for both couples and their guests.

Why Consider the Caribbean For Your Easy Destination Wedding?

On top of the fact that these 7 destinations are going to be helpful for an expedited legal wedding, here are a few more reasons to consider the Caribbean for your destination wedding.

Range Of Venues

Firstly, it offers a diverse range of wedding venues, tailored to accommodate the varying preferences and budgets of couples, can be found throughout the Caribbean. Luxurious resorts, private villas, or charming beachfront gazebos are just a few examples. For that reason, we highly recommend the Caribbean as your first choice.

Many All-Inclusive Resort Options

Additionally, the region provides numerous resort options that furnish all-inclusive wedding packages, encompassing lodging, meals, beverages, and wedding coordination services. Some even extend supplementary amenities like spa treatments and excursions.

Amazing Local Hospitality

Above all, the Caribbean is renowned for its exceptional hospitality, vibrant culture, and welcoming community. Couples can engage with the locals and immerse themselves in the unique traditions of the islands. Of course, your guests will also feel like celebrities as they are pampered and treated like royalty!

NOTE: If you aren’t sure whether or not to have a legal destination wedding, you should read my article on The Difference Between Having a Legal vs. Symbolic Ceremony.

Here Are The Top 7 Caribbean Islands For a More Stress-Free And Easy Legal Destination Wedding

The Islands of Bahamas

First up is The Bahamas. In the first place, they are unmatched for their allure, making it an exceptional choice for a destination wedding. Second, with its powdery white sand beaches, secluded uninhabited islands, and incredible scuba diving opportunities, the islands possess a charm that is difficult for any other destination to match. Furthermore, they are one of the nearest Caribbean territories to the United States, and hence convenient for guests to join the wedding.

Best Time: December to April.
Legal Wedding Requirements:
- Residency Period: 48 hours. It doesn’t take into account the day of arrival, holidays, and weekends. This means you will need to be in the Bahamas for two full business days first before you can get legally married. Many couples will fly in on a Tuesday or Wednesday, as they enjoy the resort and make final wedding prep with the onsite team on Thursday and Friday, and then have their legal ceremony on Saturday. Most of the Bahamian islands do not allow Sunday weddings.
Getting a Marriage License
- The following fee and documents will be required to apply for your marriage license in the Bahamas.
  - Marriage License And Administrative Fee: 310 USD
- Documents Needed
  - Original birth certificate and passport.
  - The court issued concluding divorce rulings (if applicable).
  - Legal name changes or legal adoption papers (if applicable).
  - Death certificates with related marriage certificates.

Make Sure You Hire A Travel Advisor!

Equally important is working with a state-side destination wedding consultant. They will be a huge help! When it comes to getting everything you need turned in ahead of time so that when you arrive, the process of getting married is smooth and pretty much effortless. For that reason, I always make sure my destination wedding couples know what they need to submit, and when they need to submit. In the end, our goal is that their destination wedding will go off without a hitch.

Jamaica

Next is our most requested, Jamaica. It offers a thrilling island retreat in the Caribbean. Beyond its pristine beaches and swaying palm trees, this country has a deep-rooted history and a vibrant population. At the core of Jamaican magic is its soul-stirring reggae music, which pervades every corner of the land and creates a highly relaxed atmosphere. For an exceptional wedding experience, Montego Bay, Negril, and Ocho Rios are highly recommended.

Best Time: December to April.
Legal Wedding Requirements:
Residency Period: 48 hours. But unlike the Bahamas, your day of arrival does count toward your residency requirement so you can arrive on Friday and get married on Sunday.
Applying For a Marriage License
- The following fee and documents will be required to apply for your marriage license in Jamaica.
  - Marriage License And Administrative Fee: 95 USD
- Documents Needed
  - Validated original birth certificate and passport.
  - Court-issued concluding divorce ruling (if applicable).
  - Legal name changes documents (if applicable).
  - Death certificates with linked marriage certificates (if applicable).
  - Validated copy of photo ID or driver’s license issued by the government.

Turks & Caicos

The Turks & Caicos Islands present an upscale ambiance distinct from other Caribbean destinations. The place comprises 40 stunning islands, including 8 inhabited ones. Furthermore, Turks & Caicos epitomizes beauty and elegance—features couples look for while planning a destination wedding. Among these islands lies a true gem called the Grace Bay beach, which ranks among the best in the world.

Best Dates: December to April.
Residency Period: 48 hours. Does not include the day of arrival, weekend, or holidays. So in this case, you will need to be in Turks & Caicos for two full business days, before you can get married legally. If you arrive on a Saturday or Sunday, your first residency day will start on Monday, which means you could get legally married as soon as the Wednesday of that week or later.
Applying For a Marriage License
- The following fee and documents will be required to apply for your marriage license in Turks & Caicos.
  - Marriage License And Administrative Fee: 400 USD
  - Documents Needed
- Original birth certificate
  - A valid passport or driver’s license.
  - Court-issued concluding divorce rulings (if applicable).
  - Death certificates with corresponding marriage certificates.
  - 21 years is the legal age to get married.
  - Couples less than 21 years of age must have written consent from both parents.

St. Lucia

Next is the luxurious island of Saint Lucia. It is gaining popularity among those seeking destination weddings and honeymoons in the Caribbean Islands. This enchanting place offers a perfect balance of luxury and serenity, and breathtaking backdrops that are ideal for couples looking for both a stunningly beautiful and romantic wedding.

Best Time: December to April.
Residency Period: 72 hours (must be a business day). No Weddings on Sundays. You can pay to expedite this and get married in 48 hours (of course you can show them the money LOL) with one of those days being a business day.
Applying For a Marriage License
- The following fee and documents will be required to apply for your marriage license in St. Lucia.
  - Marriage License And Administrative Fee: 270 USD
  - Marriage License And Administrative Fee with Expedited Services: 341 USD
- Documents Needed:
  - Copies of birth certificate and passport.
  - Court-issued concluding divorce rulings (if applicable).
  - Legal name changes documents (if applicable).
  - State-issued death certificates with related marriage certificates.

Antigua

Did you know this island has 365 beaches? It may be challenging to visit all, but you must not miss the key ones. Moreover, Antigua offers a variety of delightful locations for weddings, such as historic forts, natural parks, and upscale resorts. In addition to this, you can visit places of historical importance or choose a luxurious setting to spend time with your loved one. Numerous options are available to make your wedding memorable on this island.

Best Time: December to April
Applying For a Marriage License
- The following fee and documents will be required to apply for your marriage license in Antigua.
- Marriage License And Administrative Fee: 288 USD
Residency Period: 48 hours, must include one business day, which includes the day of arrival. No wedding on Sundays and holidays.
Documents Needed:
- Original birth certificate and passport.
- Court-issued concluding divorce ruling (if applicable).
- State-issued death certificates with related marriage certificates.
- Legal name changes documents (if applicable).

Aruba

Next up is Aruba! This has become one of the most sought-after wedding spots in the Caribbean in 2023. It has stunning coastlines, intriguing heritage and customs, and delectable food. Naturally, the beaches are breathtaking, and the weather is enjoyable. Couples can engage in various activities, making it ideal for those who enjoy adventure.

Best Time: Mid-December to April
Applying For a Marriage License
- The following fee and documents will be required to apply for your marriage license in this country.
  - Marriage License And Administrative Fees: USD 284
Residency Period: None. Civil Ceremonies take place in the City Hall Monday, Tuesday, Thursday, and Friday with Saturdays available for an extra fee.
Documents Needed:
- State-certified copies of birth certificates for bride and groom
- Valid passport for Bride and Groom.
- Witness (18 years up) with a valid passport.
- Certificate of no impediment for bride and groom
- Declaration of Intent Form
- Single Status Form
- Final Divorce Decree or Death Certificate with Apostille if applicable

Barbados

Finally, we have Barbados. Barbados is a lively and vibrant island representing the typical Caribbean charm. It offers a blend of natural beauty, upbeat music, rich cultural experiences, and a truly romantic atmosphere. You can enjoy your time on a boat, in a church, within a historic plantation house, amidst a stunning garden, overlooking dramatic sea cliffs, or with your feet in the sand. To be sure, those seeking a romantic adventure will leave the island with a lasting impression.

Best Time: December to April
Applying For a Marriage License
- The following fee and documents will be required to apply for your marriage license on this island.
  - Residency Period: 48 hours. Does not include weekends or holidays.
  - Marriage License And Administrative Fee: 325 USD
Documents Needed
- Original state-issued birth certificate and passport
- Court-issued concluding divorce ruling (if applicable)
- Legal name changes documents (if needed)
- Death certificates with related marriage certificates

Ready For An Easy Destination Wedding?

In the end, you’re going to be happiest with your wedding in a location that will give you a simple & easy legal wedding and that you love. Moreover, there’s something to be said about having your destination wedding in a place that you truly adore. You’ll have a destination wedding experience you’ll remember forever.

I hope one of these 7 destinations speaks to your heart. By the way, if you are ready to be done with all the searching, and just get your wedding planned, then I invite you to schedule a 30-minute free consultation with me today so that you can get unstuck and move forward.

Click Here to Schedule Your Free 30-minute Consultation Now!