Destination Wedding Planning Guide for Canadians (2025–2026)

Planning a destination wedding from Canada can feel overwhelming — from choosing the right country and resort to managing guest travel, costs, and legal requirements. This complete guide breaks down everything Canadian couples need to know about destination weddings, including pricing, best destinations, timelines, and how working with a Canadian destination wedding specialist can make the process stress-free.

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Quick Answers: Destination Weddings for Canadians

• Average cost: $10,000–$25,000 CAD (often less than a traditional wedding)

• Most popular destinations: Mexico, Dominican Republic, Jamaica, Costa Rica

• Typical guest count: 20–80 guests

• Planning timeline: 12–18 months recommended

• Ceremony type: Symbolic ceremonies are most common and easiest

• Travel booking: Group contracts help lock in pricing and availability

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Best Destination Wedding Locations for Canadians

Canadian couples often choose destinations with direct flights, strong resort wedding programs, and favourable weather.

Mexico Destination Weddings

Mexico is the most popular choice for Canadian destination weddings.

Why Canadians love Mexico:

• Excellent value for all-inclusive packages

• Direct flights from most Canadian cities

• Large variety of resorts and wedding venues

• Simple symbolic ceremony process

Popular areas include Cancun, Riviera Maya, Costa Mujeres, and Cabo.

Dominican Republic Destination Weddings

The Dominican Republic offers stunning beaches and large resort properties ideal for bigger guest lists.

Highlights:

• Beautiful beachfront venues

• Competitive wedding packages

• Great option for groups of 40+ guests

• Direct flights from Canada

Punta Cana remains the top choice for weddings.

Jamaica Destination Weddings

Jamaica is perfect for couples wanting a relaxed island vibe with strong wedding coordination.

Why choose Jamaica:

• English-speaking destination

• Straightforward legal marriage process

• Lively culture and music

• Excellent for smaller to mid-sized groups

Costa Rica Destination Weddings

Costa Rica is ideal for couples seeking something unique beyond a traditional beach resort.

Best for:

• Nature-focused weddings

• Eco-luxury resorts

• Adventure-loving couples

• Intimate celebrations

How Much Does a Destination Wedding Cost?

Destination weddings are often more affordable than traditional Canadian weddings.

Typical Cost Breakdown (CAD)

Item estimated cost

Resort wedding package$3,000 – $8,000

Travel for couple$3,000 – $6,000

Décor & add-ons$2,000 – $5,000

Photography / video$2,000 – $5,000

Total average$10,000 – $25,000

Good to know:
Many resorts offer complimentary or discounted wedding packages when a minimum number of rooms are booked by guests.

What’s Included in an All-Inclusive Destination Wedding?

Most destination wedding packages include:

• Ceremony venue

• On-site wedding coordinator

• Bouquet & boutonniere

• Basic décor and seating

• Wedding cake or dessert

• Sparkling wine or cocktail toast

Upgrades such as private receptions, décor enhancements, photography, and entertainment can be added.

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Legal vs Symbolic Destination Weddings

Most Canadian couples choose a symbolic ceremony.

Symbolic Ceremony

• No legal paperwork required

• No residency requirements

• Faster and simpler process

• Fully recognized socially (legal marriage completed in Canada)

Legal Ceremony

• Country-specific paperwork

  • Mexico​

  • Dominican Republic

  • Jamaica

  • Costa Rica

• Additional fees and timelines

• Often requires documents translated and notarized

We help couples decide which option best suits their situation.

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Destination Wedding Planning Timeline for Canadians

12–18 Months Before

• Choose destination and travel dates

• Shortlist 3–4 resorts

• Secure group contract

• Launch wedding website

9–12 Months Before

• Guests begin booking travel

• Select ceremony venue and package

• Book photography and add-ons

3–6 Months Before

• Finalize guest list

• Confirm décor and reception details

• Make final payments

Wedding Week

• Resort coordination meetings

• Rehearsal and welcome events

• Wedding celebration

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How Guest Travel Works for Destination Weddings

Guest travel is one of the most important parts of destination wedding planning.

We assist with:

• Group travel contracts

• Room block management

• Payment schedules

• Flight and luggage guidance

• Travel insurance recommendations

• Ongoing guest support

This ensures your guests feel informed and supported from booking to return home.

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Why Work With a Canadian Destination Wedding Travel Agency?

Planning a destination wedding involves much more than choosing a resort.

Destination Weddings with Globetrot is:

• 100% Canadian-owned and operated

• IATA-registered

• Experienced with 25+ destination weddings

• Specialists in group travel coordination

• Supporting couples and guests across Canada

• Experienced with Mexico, Caribbean, and Costa Rica weddings

We manage the logistics so you can focus on celebrating.

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Frequently Asked Questions

How far in advance should Canadians plan a destination wedding?

We recommend 12–18 months to secure the best flight options, resort availability, and group pricing.

Is a destination wedding cheaper than a traditional wedding?

In most cases, yes. Destination weddings often cost less overall and include more built-in services.

Do guests pay for their own travel?

Yes. Guests typically cover their own travel, while couples may receive resort credits based on bookings.

How many guests usually attend?

Most destination weddings host between 20 and 80 guests.

Can children attend destination weddings?

Yes. Many resorts are family-friendly, while adults-only options are also available.

Are flights included in destination wedding packages?

Flights are typically booked separately, often as part of a group travel contract.

Do I need wedding insurance?

We strongly recommend travel insurance for both couples and guests to protect against unexpected changes.

Can we host extra events like welcome parties?

Yes. Most resorts offer welcome dinners, cocktail hours, and farewell brunch options.

Start Planning Your Destination Wedding

Planning a destination wedding should feel exciting — not stressful.

👉 Schedule a free consultation with our Canadian destination wedding specialists and let us help you plan a seamless, unforgettable celebration abroad.

Destination Weddings with Globetrot
Proudly helping Canadian couples say “I do” around the world.