Celebrating your love doesn’t have to be complicated. Many couples are now choosing to say “I do” in paradise with a commitment ceremony. You might have heard the term “commitment ceremony”, but aren’t sure exactly what it means. As Destination Wedding experts, we’re here to break it down for you.

What is a commitment ceremony?

A commitment ceremony is a symbolic ceremony that gives couples a chance share their commitment to each other through a public affirmation. Most commitment ceremonies are performed by a officiant and can include traditional rituals like vows, exchanging rings, etc.

Commitment ceremony vs. wedding: What’s the difference?

The biggest difference between a commitment ceremony and a wedding ceremony is that one is legally binding and the other isn’t. The ceremonies can be very similar, but only a wedding ceremony will allow your relationship to be recognized as a legal marriage by the government or state where you have your wedding.

What’s the difference between a commitment ceremony and symbolic ceremony?

Both ceremonies are symbolic ways to show your commitment to each other without it being legally binding and you’ll hear both terms used interchangeably.

Common names for these ceremonies are:

Commitment Ceremony
Symbolic Ceremony
Spiritual Ceremony
Promise Ceremony

What does a commitment ceremony look like?

Commitment ceremonies can look just like a wedding (vows, gown, flowers, etc.) or it can look completely different! When you have a commitment ceremony, the format is up to you and your significant other. The only thing it won’t include is a marriage license.

Why should you have a commitment 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.
You can’t get legally married in their home state
Many LGBTQ+ couples choose to have a commitment ceremony because they can’t have a legal marriage in their home state or country. This allows them to celebrate their love to each other with family and friends.
And more!
There are many reasons why couples choose to have a commitment ceremony. For example, some couples have been previously married and don’t want to legalize their second marriage, some want to include rituals that a certified marriage officiant can’t perform, and others prefer to elope. Whatever the reason is, a commitment ceremony is a great way to share your commitment to each other.

Whether you plan to have a legal ceremony or not, we recommend celebrating in paradise! Check out our 10 Reasons to have a Destination Wedding.

READY TO PLAN YOUR DREAM WEDDING?

Schedule a Complimentary Destination Wedding Consultation

How it works.

Many destination wedding couples choose to get legally married at their church or local courthouse and then have a larger commitment ceremony with friends and family in paradise.

To have a commitment 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 commitment 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 commitment ceremony certificate to have as a keepsake. The ceremony details are completely up to you.

Who performs a commitment ceremony?

To have a commitment 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.

Should I tell my guests?

Typically, guests don’t know that the ceremony they are witnessing at destination weddings are symbolic (shhh!). 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 every couple.