Wedding in the Tropics

If a tropical wedding destination is what you have in mind, there are plenty of options around the world to choose from. From small domestic islands to foreign lands, you can choose a wedding venue that fits your tropical theme. There are some factors you need to consider before booking and planning your wedding destination in the tropics.

Location and Travel

Unless you live in a tropical destination then you and your wedding guests will have to travel to the wedding destination. For you and your groom, you'll probably need to go once or twice before the wedding to take care of the planning details and at least a few days before the wedding date. With the expense of traveling, you may wish to consider how far away the tropical wedding location is and what difficulties your guests may run into getting there such as obtaining a passport and applying for a Visa to visit the country.

Guest List

Some wedding venues in tropical destinations can accommodate hundreds of guests for a sit down meal. Others, however, are located on small islands and may only be able to accommodate small wedding ceremonies and receptions. You either need to make sure that the number of guests works with the venue you choose or scale your guest list according to the amount of guests your venue can comfortably hold.

Attire

Weddings in the tropics also have to take the weather into consideration when choosing attire. While a traditional wedding gown may be fine for a church wedding in your hometown, this type of gown may be too hot for a warm climate. The same holds true for dressing your groom and groomsmen in tuxedos. Loose fitting attire in cool fabrics such as linen and light cotton may be better suited for tropical climates. Also, outdoor weddings require some thought to the bridal attire. You may want to avoid wearing a long veil or dress that is blown by the breeze, but rather choose attire that is wind friendly so it doesn't get in your way when you're walking down the aisle or saying your vows.

Decor

Often times, weddings in the tropics are held in an outdoor setting such as on the beach. In these scenarios, you may not have to worry about adding decorations because you have the backdrop of the ocean or swaying palm trees. There are needs such seating, outdoor friendly centerpieces and linens, lighting (for evening weddings) and linens that don't blow away in the breeze that is different than holding a traditional wedding ceremony and reception.

Marriage License Requirements

Whether you're getting married in a U.S. tropical location or a foreign location or island, you need to find out what the marriage license requirements are for the state or country where you'll be married. For U.S. destinations, you can contact the county clerk's office for the county where the ceremony will take place. For foreign destinations, contact the embassy for the country where the wedding is scheduled to find out what you need to do to apply for a marriage license. Depending on the requirements, you may need to arrive at the destination in advance to have blood tests, supply the appropriate documentation (photo I.D.s, divorce decrees, death certificates for previous spouses, etc.) and pay the marriage license fee.