Best All Inclusive Resorts for a Catholic Destination Wedding
El Dorado Royale
Riviera Maya, Mexico
5 Star Resort Note: Hotel Class - 5/5 star rating based on hotel quality ranking
Average Cost: $$$
Adults-Only
13 Venues
Grand Palladium Colonial Resort & Spa
Riviera Maya, Mexico
4.5 Star Resort Note: Hotel Class - 4.5/5 star rating based on hotel quality ranking
Average Cost: $$
Family-Friendly
7 Venues
Hard Rock Hotel Riviera Maya
Riviera Maya, Mexico
4.5 Star Resort Note: Hotel Class - 4.5/5 star rating based on hotel quality ranking
Average Cost: $$$
Family-Friendly
6 Venues
Moon Palace Cancun
Cancun, Mexico
4.5 Star Resort Note: Hotel Class - 4.5/5 star rating based on hotel quality ranking
Average Cost: $$$
Family-Friendly
11 Venues
Majestic Colonial Punta Cana
Punta Cana, Dominican Republic
4 Star Resort Note: Hotel Class - 4/5 star rating based on hotel quality ranking
Average Cost: $$
Family-Friendly
5 Venues
JOIA Paraiso by Iberostar
Riviera Maya, Mexico
5 Star Resort Note: Hotel Class - 5/5 star rating based on hotel quality ranking
Average Cost: $$$
Adults-Only
3 Venues
Tips for Catholic Destination Weddings
First and foremost, start the planning process early. Start talking to your home parish about 9-12 months before your wedding date. This will ensure you get everything done and meet all the requirements with less stress.
Keep in close contact with both your home parish and the destination parish to help you choose Catholic destination wedding locations that will be valid. Consult with your priest about setting up your pre-marital counseling, completing the sacraments, and obtaining the necessary documentation for your destination wedding. They can guide you through the process and ensure you don't miss any steps that could delay your marriage ceremony.
Choose a destination that has a strong Catholic presence to guarantee you can get all the necessary services to perform your ceremony. If the location you choose doesn't have a consecrated church or a Catholic priest to perform the ceremony, you may be limited to a civil ceremony that won't be recognized by the Catholic Church.
Keep in close contact with both your home parish and the destination parish to help you choose Catholic destination wedding locations that will be valid. Consult with your priest about setting up your pre-marital counseling, completing the sacraments, and obtaining the necessary documentation for your destination wedding. They can guide you through the process and ensure you don't miss any steps that could delay your marriage ceremony.
Choose a destination that has a strong Catholic presence to guarantee you can get all the necessary services to perform your ceremony. If the location you choose doesn't have a consecrated church or a Catholic priest to perform the ceremony, you may be limited to a civil ceremony that won't be recognized by the Catholic Church.
Catholic Destination Wedding FAQs
How do I plan a Catholic destination wedding?
Planning a Catholic destination wedding is a wonderful way to honor your religious traditions while still having a unique celebration. Here’s how to get started:
Speak with a Certified Destination Wedding Specialist to find the right destination, resort and wedding package to meet your needs. Browse through your venue options and secure a wedding date. Book a group room block for your guests to take advantage of the best travel rates. Decide if you want a symbolic or civil (legal) ceremony. Work with your onsite wedding coordinator to solidify the details (i.e. priest, decor, paperwork, etc.) Say “I do” in a stunning seaside chapel in paradise!
Speak with a Certified Destination Wedding Specialist to find the right destination, resort and wedding package to meet your needs. Browse through your venue options and secure a wedding date. Book a group room block for your guests to take advantage of the best travel rates. Decide if you want a symbolic or civil (legal) ceremony. Work with your onsite wedding coordinator to solidify the details (i.e. priest, decor, paperwork, etc.) Say “I do” in a stunning seaside chapel in paradise!
What do I need to know before planning a Catholic wedding in the Dominican Republic?
To have a Catholic wedding in the Dominican Republic, couples must meet both civil and religious requirements, including submitting baptism and confirmation certificates, completing a marriage preparation course, and receiving approval from both your home parish and the local diocese.
Can I have a Cancun Catholic wedding at a resort chapel?
Yes, a Cancun Catholic wedding can take place in a beautiful resort chapel. You’ll need to work with a priest and submit church documentation several months in advance to secure approval.