10 Things to Know about Symbolic Ceremonies
Many couples are now choosing to celebrate their love and union in paradise with a symbolic ceremony. You might have heard the term “symbolic ceremony”, but aren’t sure exactly what it means. As Destination Wedding experts, we’re here to help you determine if a symbolic ceremony is right for you!
#1 - What is a symbolic ceremony?
A symbolic ceremony is a ceremony that gives couples a chance to share their commitment to each other through a public affirmation with family or friends. Most symbolic ceremonies are performed by an officiant and can include traditional rituals like vows and exchanging rings, but are not legally binding. To most guests, a symbolic wedding looks just like a regular wedding! Symbolic ceremonies can also give couples the opportunity to get married anywhere they want, opening many possibilities for breathtaking venues.
#2 - How are symbolic ceremonies different?
The biggest difference between a symbolic ceremony and a wedding ceremony is that a wedding ceremony is legally binding, whereas a symbolic ceremony is just showing your commitment to your partner. The ceremonies can be very similar, but only a wedding ceremony will allow your relationship to be recognized as a legal marriage. For a symbolic ceremony, you can customize it to make it look however you’d like!
#3 - Are symbolic ceremonies different from commitment ceremonies?
Both ceremonies are ways to show your commitment to each other without it being legally binding and both terms can be used interchangeably. Other common names for these ceremonies are:
Commitment Ceremony
Symbolic Ceremony
Spiritual Ceremony
Promise Ceremony
Celebrant Led Ceremonies
#4 - What does a symbolic ceremony look like?
Symbolic ceremonies can look just like a wedding or it can be completely different! When you have a symbolic ceremony, the type of event you want it to be is up to you and your significant other. The only thing a symbolic ceremony won’t include is a marriage license. Perfect for destination weddings, symbolic ceremonies can take place in any paradise you want!
#5 - Why should you have a symbolic ceremony?
You want to get married in a country that has strict wedding policies
For example, if you want to get legally married in Mexico, you will be required to provide specific paperwork and have a blood test done in Mexico 48 hours before marriage. Many couples choose to get legally married in the U.S., but then have their commitment ceremony with friends and family at the destination of their choice!
You can’t get legally married where you’re located
Many LGBTQ+ couples choose to have a symbolic ceremony because they can’t have a legal marriage in their home state or country. This allows them to celebrate their love with family and friends in a ceremony catered to them!
There are many reasons why couples choose to have a symbolic ceremony. Whatever the reason is, a symbolic ceremony is a great way to symbolize your commitment to each other.
For any type of ceremony, we recommend celebrating in paradise! Check out our 10 Reasons to have a Destination Wedding.
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#6 - How it works!
Many destination wedding couples choose to get legally married at their church or local courthouse and then have a larger symbolic ceremony with friends and family in paradise.
To have a symbolic ceremony you’ll need to find out what the requirements are for your destination (valid passports, certified birth certificates, etc.) and find an officiant if you plan to have one. Many couples choose an officiant that is a friend or family member to make their ceremony more personal and some couples even choose to not have an officiant and do their own ceremony.
Many couples love having a symbolic ceremony because they are very flexible. Location options are endless and you can ask guests to do readings, play music, etc. Some couples even choose to sign a symbolic ceremony certificate to have as a keepsake. The ceremony details are completely up to you and you can create your own vision!
#7 - Who performs a symbolic ceremony?
To have a symbolic ceremony, you don't necessarily need to have an officiant. You both can exchange your vows or you can have a close friend or family member help you with the ceremony.
#8 - Should I tell my guests?
Typically, guests don’t know that the ceremony they are witnessing at destination weddings is symbolic. Most destination wedding couples choose not to tell their guests that they aren’t witnessing their legal wedding ceremony, but that is a personal decision for each couple to decide.
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#9 - How do I plan a symbolic ceremony?
Since there aren’t any rules to a symbolic ceremony, the details can be all up to you and your significant other! We recommend that you start with the following:
Discuss where you want to have you ceremony and determine a location.
Decide how many people you are inviting.
Discuss what you want your actual ceremony to look like.
Find a team of vendors to help you! You don’t need to figure out all of the details on your own. When you work with Shoreline Destinations, we’ll help you figure out all of the details.
#10 - Where do I start?
To get started, schedule a FREE consultation with one of our travel advisors. Our team will help you narrow down the perfect destination and resort.
When you plan with Shoreline Destinations, you’ll get:
Resort Selection - Not sure where to start? Our team is here to find the perfect destination and resort for you and your guests!
Dedicated Agent - When you plan with us, you’ll have a dedicated travel agent from beginning to end.
Competitive Pricing - With our industry connections, we’ll ensure you are receiving the best possible pricing and benefits.
Personalized Ceremony - We don’t have set packages. At Shoreline Destinations every ceremony is unique and completely customized.
Guest Reservations - We love getting to know all of your guests, helping them select the perfect room, and answering all their questions.
Guest Activities - Want a fire dancer at your welcome reception? Group snorkeling trip? Bring us your ideas and we’ll have some too!
Ready to plan your dream destination wedding? Contact us and we’ll make the process stress-free!
Cheers to all things love and travel!
Andrea Norfolk
Travel Advisor, Destination Weddings
