Weddings in the Dominican Republic

There are so many different ways to fall in love in the Dominican Republic. Whether visitors are coming to tie the knot on one of the island's beautiful beaches or rekindle an existing relationship with a loved one during an intimate getaway in paradise, the island welcomes everyone with open arms. From the bright lights of Santo Domingo to the swaying palm trees of Punta Cana, and everywhere else in between, romance awaits. Every year, lovers fall in love all over again as they dance the merengue, and new futures are forged as "I do's" are exchanged under palm trees.

Matches Made in Heaven

With its wide variety of accommodations and romantic venues, the Dominican Republic is an ideal choice for honeymooners and other couples. If the lovers are looking for a quiet, secluded beach getaway, the island can accommodate. If honeymooners want to start off their new lives with an exciting jumpstart of eco-adventure, the Dominican Republic can also keep them going from sun up to sun down. As hotels vary enormously, so do the romance options. Brides and grooms can opt for extravagant and lavish ceremonies and receptions or more sedate and private affairs on the beach, in the gardens or anywhere else they would like. Most of the larger resorts and hotels offer a selection of wedding and romance packages and often have wedding specialists on hand to help coordinate every last detail to make sure that nothing gets in the way of the love.

Steps Down the Aisle

Unlike many Caribbean destinations, there is no waiting period to get married here and that makes the entire process much simpler and convenient. In fact, when it comes to getting married in the Dominican Republic, couples will find the entire process easy and very accommodating. First, couples must register to be married with the Oficialia del Estado Civil (City Clerk). There is usually a $125 fee (hotels and resorts fees may differ). The couple must submit their passports, original copies of birth certificates, single status affidavits translated into Spanish (done at the Dominican Consulate) and a translated Divorce Certificate (if required). Next, the couples must contact their resort or hotel to reserve a judge; one month in advance is suggested and a minimum of 15 days is required. Two witnesses over the age of 18 must also be present at the ceremony. If they are not residents of the island, make sure they have valid passports for verification. Once the ceremony has taken place, a marriage certificate must be requested from the local Justice of the Peace. This usually takes about a day or two.

Hotel wedding coordinators will help visitors with all of these requirements. Once the official business is complete, there is nothing left to do for the newlyweds but dance the night away and begin their honeymoon immediately.

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