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Guide to Gay Weddings in Mexico & the Caribbean

Your Ultimate Guide to Planning a Gay Wedding in Mexico & the Caribbean

Planning a gay wedding together can be an incredible and memorable experience, with a few unique challenges. Throw in the added challenge of organizing the destination wedding of your dreams, and you’ve got a lot of work ahead of you!  

Although same-sex marriage is common throughout the world, it’s still a good idea to do your research because you don’t want to find yourself in an uncomfortable, or worse yet, unsafe situation for you and your wedding guests.

If you and your partner have your minds set on a destination wedding but are unsure of where to start, this planning guide can offer you inspiration and begin to turn your wedding dreams into reality.

Top Destinations for Your Gay Wedding

The first step to planning any wedding is selecting the ideal destination. As a loving couple, be on the same page regarding whether you want a legal same-sex marriage or if a commitment ceremony is the right alternative for you.

Some countries offer you both options but others might limit you to a symbolic ceremony, so be completely clear on what you both want on your special day. Legal recognition of same-sex relationships varies widely, with some countries fully supporting marriage equality while others do not.

Look for countries that have progressive laws supporting LGBTQ rights, and same-sex marriage equality. Do your research on each destination and know their marriage requirements, including residency rules, documentation, and waiting periods.

To help you keep the guesswork out of the legalities surrounding gay marriage requirements, you can speak to one of our Destination Wedding Specialists who will assist you every step of the way.

 

The Best Gay-Friendly Caribbean Islands & Central American Countries

Here are some of the top LGBTQ+-friendly destinations to help you begin narrowing down your search for the perfect spot for your destination wedding.

Gay Wedding Mexico

Mexico

Safety: Very safe for LGBTQ+ travelers in most major tourist destinations.
Gay Marriage: Since 2022, gay marriage has been legal in all 32 states of Mexico. To get married in Mexico you will need:

  • Valid passports
  • Tourist permits
  • Marriage application
  • Blood tests
  • Birth certificates
  • Divorce or death decrees (if applicable)
  • Witnesses

Highlights: Vibrant LGBTQ+ neighborhoods and nightlife, stunning beaches, rich cultural experiences, ancient ruins and historical sites, and numerous all-inclusive wedding venues catering to same-sex couples.

Gay Wedding Costa Rica

Costa Rica

Safety: One of the safest Central American countries for LGBTQ+ travelers.
Gay Marriage: Same-sex marriage has been legal in Costa Rica since May 2020. To get married in Costa Rica you will need:

  • Valid passports
  • Birth certificates
  • Single status affidavit
  • Divorce decrees or death certificates if previously married
  • Application form

Highlights: Biodiverse national parks, pristine beaches, adventure activities, LGBTQ+ friendly nightlife.

Gay Wedding Puerto Rico

Puerto Rico

Safety: One of the safest Caribbean islands for LGBTQ travelers.
Gay Marriage: Same-sex marriage has been legal in Puerto Rico since the 2015 US Supreme Court Ruling of Obergefell v. Hodges. To get married in Puerto Rico you will need:

  • Government-issued IDs
  • Birth certificates
  • Lab tests, specifically for the STDs of syphilis, chlamydia, gonorrhea, and HIV 
  • Divorce decrees or death certificates of previous spouses, when applicable

Highlights: San Juan’s vibrant LGBTQ+ nightlife, beautiful beaches, natural wonders and historic sites.

The Top Gay-Friendly Cities for Your Destination Wedding

Planning Your Special Guest List

Have you already chosen the perfect destination wedding location? Let the planning begin!

Focus on who makes sense to invite, their schedules, budgets, and ability to travel. The size of your wedding will impact the venue size needed, so take everything into account to ensure a seamless and enjoyable experience for everyone involved, especially you and your partner.

Gay Destination Weddings Mexico and Caribbean

Handling Unsupportive Family Members

It’s sad but true. Some of your more conservative loved ones and family members don’t understand the love you feel for each other. This is challenging and stressful, especially if it is your immediate family.

Commit to an open line of communication, setting boundaries, and focusing on the supportive people in your life. Lean on your more supportive friends and family members and other same-sex couples for advice and support during these times and trust you are making the right decision for you and your partner.

It’s unfortunate, but you might consider a selective invitation list and leave them off. You don’t need negativity on your special day.

Gay Destination Wedding Mexico and Caribbean

What to Wear to a Gay Wedding

The sky is the colorful limit for your big day. Keep in mind the time of the year and location. You, be you, and bring your personality and flair into the picture.

From classics like black and white to more modern and rainbow-themed colors, create a wedding party color palette that showcases your style. If your guests should follow along with your theme, add it to the invitation.

Here are some wardrobe ideas to make your same-sex marriage one to remember:

  • Traditional Wedding Attire: Tuxedos and gowns are always a classic choice.
  • Themed Attire: Sticking to a theme can add a unique touch, whether it’s vintage, beachwear, or color-coordinated outfits.
  • Season and Location Considerations: Choose outfits appropriate for the time of year and your wedding location like lightweight fabrics for a beach wedding.
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Navigating Traditional Gender Roles at Gay Weddings

In many countries, gay marriage is a relatively new concept and no matter how open-minded or well-seasoned the officiant, vendors, or organizers are, you as a couple still might have to come up against traditional thought when it comes to the logistics of marriage. Traditional views often see marriage as between one man and one woman, which may need to be navigated in planning a gay wedding.
Here are some things you may have to think about, discuss, and decide upon to ensure your special day goes as smoothly and inclusively as possible.

Gay destination wedding

Budgeting and Financial Planning

Another traditional aspect of wedding planning is who pays for what. Do you involve your families? Will you split everything 50/50? Is there a set budget you’re sticking to?
Setting clear expectations and responsibilities from the start will help you avoid any conflicts down the line.


Whether you want a romantic getaway wedding at a gay-friendly all-inclusive resort, or invite hundreds of your family and friends, planning a wedding involves organization and budgeting. Start early, a year or more in advance, to secure your venue, accommodations, and travel. 

Let's Get Started Planning Your Gay Wedding Today

Are you ready to plan the destination wedding of your dreams? We have a team of dedicated LGBTQ+ Destination Wedding Planning Specialists who can help you make those dreams come true.

All you have to do to get started is fill out our wedding planning form to tell us more about what you want for your big day and one of our specialists will be in touch!

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