April 16, 2025
Getting married soon? Let’s talk Mexico.You’ve found your person, you’re dreaming of dreamy views and palm trees, and Mexico is calling your name louder than tequila on a Tuesday. But wait—how do you actually get married there and make it legal back home?
As your go-to wedding bestie (with a clipboard and a killer dress), I’ve got you covered with all the legal details, personal touches, and behind-the-scenes deets you need to know before saying “sí, quiero” in the sun. Grab a glass of wine, and let’s plan the most iconic chapter of your love story.
Let’s Start with the Basics: The 3 Types of Weddings in Mexico
Mexico is full of magic, and yes—you can get married there even if you’re from the U.S., Canada, or beyond. But don’t get caught up in the fiesta without knowing what kind of ceremony you’re actually having:
– Civil Ceremony: This is the only one that’s legally recognized. It’s valid in Mexico and back home.
– Symbolic Ceremony: Big celebration vibes, but not legally binding. Most couples get married legally before or after.
– Religious Ceremony: Think Catholic, Jewish, Hindu, etc. Gorgeous, meaningful—but not legal unless paired with a civil one.
Insider tip? Most of our couples choose symbolic ceremonies for the freedom and flair. You get the glam without the legal logistics interrupting your vacay.
So, What Does It Actually Cost to Get Married in Mexico?
Get ready for this: The average Mexico destination wedding costs is between $10,000 – $20,000. Yep, less than the down payment on a designer bag collection.
Here’s what can affect that number:
– Number of guests (think 20-100+)
– The resort or venue (we’ve got faves, of course)
– Package inclusions (flowers, decor, luxe add-ons)
– Extra touches (because custom signage and signature cocktails are non-negotiable)
And yes, all-inclusive resorts often bundle the party for you. Translation? You might actually save compared to a traditional wedding. Mind blown.
Legal Requirements You Need to Know
Don’t worry—you won’t need to study for this part. But here’s the legal checklist to keep it cute and official:
– Four witnesses (friends count!)
– You must be 18+
– Blood tests and chest X-rays done in Mexico (not every state requires the X-ray)
– Valid passports (with at least 6 months left)
– Apostilled birth certificates, translated into Spanish
– Divorce decree or death certificate if applicable
Sound overwhelming? We handle this all the time. You just show up fabulous.
What If You’ve Been Married Before?
Mexico allows remarriage, but some states have a waiting period:
– One year post-divorce is standard.
– In Quintana Roo, women must wait 300 days unless they’ve had a baby during that time.
Widowed? Just bring the death certificate with your other documents.
Same-Sex Weddings? Absolutely.
Since 2015, every state in Mexico performs same-sex marriages. No extra steps, no hidden clauses—just love, your way.
Our team works with inclusive, affirming resorts where love is the only thing that matters.
FAQs (aka “Wait, What?” Moments)
Q: Can I get married on a Sunday?
A: Only symbolic or civil ceremonies. Catholic ceremonies usually need to happen on another day unless you bring your own officiant.
Q: Will the ceremony be in Spanish?
A: It can be bilingual—totally up to you.
Q: Is my marriage legal back home?
A: If you did a civil ceremony, yes. Symbolic or religious? You’ll need to get legally married elsewhere.
Q: What’s up with those blood tests?
A: They cost about $300 per couple, and results are ready in 24 hours.
How to Plan This Thing (Without Losing Your Mind)
Here’s how we roll at Shuman Koutory Event and Design:
1. Pick a city you feel drawn to. Tulum? Puerto Vallarta? Cabo? We’ll help you vibe-check them.
2. Choose your resort based on your style, budget, and guest needs.
3. Select your wedding package. Want luxury? We have the VIP list.
4. Secure your date—we’ll coordinate with the resort.
5. We’ll handle the entire legal and planning process from here.
6. Need to tour the venue? We can tag along or send detailed visuals. Either way, you’re not alone.And before you know it? You’re barefoot on the beach, champagne in hand, and love in the air.
Let’s Make Magic Happen
Weddings in Mexico aren’t just beautiful—they’re iconic. But don’t plan this alone. Whether you’re dreaming of rose petal aisles or firework exits, we’re here to make it effortless and editorial-worthy.
Need help planning your luxury destination wedding in Mexico?
Let’s talk logistics, aesthetics, and how to make your day as extraordinary as your love story.
Book your consultation now with our team at Shuman Koutory Event and Design. You bring the romance, we’ll bring the details.You deserve a wedding that feels like you—stylish, intentional, and stress-free.
Ready to get started? Schedule your luxury Mexico wedding planning consultation.
Because the love is real, and your wedding should be too.Your bestie with the passport and the planning tools.
With Love,
The Shuman Koutory Team
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