Destination Wedding FAQs for Canadian Couples

Expert Answers from Destination Weddings with Globetrot

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1. How much does a destination wedding cost for Canadians?

For Canadian couples, the average cost of a destination wedding typically ranges from $8,000 to $20,000 CAD, depending on the destination, resort, number of guests, and wedding package selected. Many resorts offer free wedding packages when a minimum number of rooms are booked. Airfare, guest travel costs, décor upgrades, photography, and private events are additional factors. A destination wedding is often significantly more affordable than a traditional Canadian wedding.

2. Can a destination wedding actually be free?

Yes. In Mexico, Jamaica, and the Dominican Republic, many resorts offer complimentary wedding packages when couples meet a minimum guest room requirement—often between 15 and 30 rooms. These packages typically include the ceremony venue, basic décor, bouquet, cake, and wedding coordination. Guests still pay for their own travel, but the couple’s base wedding package can be fully covered.

3. What is the best destination for Canadians to get married?

The most popular and reliable destinations for Canadian couples are:

• Mexico (Cancun, Riviera Maya, Costa Mujeres)

• Dominican Republic (Punta Cana, La Romana)

• Jamaica (Montego Bay, Negril, Ocho Rios)
  These destinations offer the best combination of affordability, wedding packages, legal simplicity, flight access, and resort variety.

4. Is a destination wedding cheaper than a wedding in Canada?

In most cases, yes. Traditional Canadian weddings average $30,000–$45,000+, while destination weddings often cost half that or less, even including travel. Couples also save on venue rentals, catering, décor, and bar service since these are included in all-inclusive wedding packages.

5. Is it legal for Canadians to get married abroad?

Yes, Canadians can legally marry abroad. Each destination has specific legal requirements such as:

• Passports

• Birth certificates

• Residency periods

• Blood tests (in some destinations)

• Divorce certificates (if applicable)
  Many couples also choose a symbolic wedding abroad and complete legal registration in Canada.

6. How many guests usually attend a destination wedding?

Most destination weddings have 20 to 60 guests, though some have fewer and others exceed 100. The guest count directly impacts:

• Free wedding qualification

• Group discounts

• Resort credits

• Private event upgrades

7. How far in advance should you book a destination wedding?

Ideally, destination weddings should be planned 12 to 18 months in advance. Popular dates, resorts, and wedding locations sell out quickly—especially for winter weddings. Early planning also allows guests more time to budget and request vacation time.

8. Do guests pay for their own travel to a destination wedding?

Yes. Guests typically pay for:

• Their airfare

• Their resort stay

• Travel insurance
  The bride and groom’s wedding package is often discounted or free based on guest participation.

9. What is included in a destination wedding package?

Most base packages include:

• Ceremony venue

• Basic décor

• Bouquet and boutonniere

• Wedding cake

• On-site wedding coordinator

• Marriage certificate (for legal weddings)
  Upgrades may include photography, videography, private receptions, floral enhancements, and specialty dinners.

10. Is travel insurance required for a destination wedding?

Travel insurance is strongly recommended and often required for group bookings. It protects guests and couples from:

• Trip cancellation

• Medical emergencies

• Flight disruptions

• Resort issues
  Canadian agencies provide proper insurance guidance.

11. Do you need a passport for a destination wedding?

Yes. All travelers—including the bride and groom—must have a valid passport for international travel. Passports should be valid for at least 6 months beyond the return date.

12. Are destination weddings stressful to plan?

They don’t have to be. With a professional Canadian destination wedding agency:
✅ Travel logistics are handled
✅ Guest bookings are managed
✅ Resort communication is coordinated
✅ Group contracts are secured
✅ Wedding timelines are organized
This significantly reduces planning stress.

13. What are the best months for a destination wedding?

The most popular months are:

• January to April (high season, best weather)

• May and November (better pricing, warmer temperatures)
  Hurricane season (August–October) has lower prices but higher weather risk.

14. Can kids attend destination weddings?

Yes. Most destination weddings are family-friendly unless the couple chooses an adults-only resort. Many resorts offer kids’ clubs, family suites, and child-friendly dining.

15. What is a destination wedding room block?

A room block is a group reservation that holds:

• A set number of rooms

• Locked-in pricing

• Wedding package qualification

• Guest booking protection
  Room blocks prevent availability and price-surge issues for guests.

16. What happens if not enough guests book?

If the minimum guest requirement is not met:

• The couple may need to pay for part of the wedding package

• Certain perks or credits may be reduced
  A professional agency monitors guest bookings to avoid this issue.

17. Do destination weddings include receptions?

Basic packages usually include the ceremony only. Receptions are typically:

• Private dinners

• Restaurant buy-outs

• Beach dinners
  These are optional upgrades and priced based on guest count.

18. Can you customize a destination wedding theme?

Yes. Resorts allow full customization including:

• Floral themes

• Colour palettes

• Décor styles

• Cultural traditions

• Fire dancers, mariachi, or steel drum performers

19. What is the biggest mistake couples make with destination weddings?

The most common mistakes are:
❌ Booking without a Canadian agency
❌ Not securing a group contract
❌ Underestimating guest timelines
❌ Skipping travel insurance
❌ Relying solely on resort marketing photos instead of expert advice

20. Why should Canadians work with a Canadian destination wedding agency?

Booking with a Canadian agency provides:
✅ TICO consumer protection
✅ Canadian dollar pricing
✅ Legal Canadian contracts
✅ Time-zone aligned guest support
✅ Emergency travel assistance
✅ Professional group negotiation
✅ Wedding package optimization

This protects both the couple and their guests financially and legally.