Bahamas Destination Wedding Cost

Planning a wedding can be a daunting task, but planning a destination wedding can be even more challenging. However, it doesn’t have to be that way with proper planning.

There are many beautiful destinations to choose from, but the Bahamas is a popular choice for couples looking for a tropical paradise to say their vows.

Cost is a significant factor to consider for a destination wedding.

Many couples worry that a destination wedding will be too expensive, but the truth is, it can be more affordable than a traditional wedding.

Read on to find out.

Key Takeaways

• Destination weddings can be more affordable than traditional weddings.
• The average cost of a 30-guest Bahamas destination wedding is $8,237.
• Planning a wedding that fits your budget is possible with the right preparation.

Why Choose Bahamas for a Destination Wedding

The Bahamas is a tropical paradise that offers everything you need for a dream wedding.

Here are some reasons why you should consider the Bahamas for your destination wedding.

Beautiful Beaches

The Bahamas is famous for its breathtaking beaches, and for good reason.

Its clear waters and white sand beaches make for a picture-perfect backdrop for your wedding ceremony.

Some of the most popular beaches for weddings include Paradise Island and Harbour Island, which are known for their pink sand beaches.

World-Class Venues

The Bahamas offers a wide range of world-class wedding venues to choose from.

Whether you’re looking for a luxurious vibe or a more intimate setting, there’s something for everyone’s taste.

One popular venue is the Ocean View Club, which is located on the island of Harbour Island and offers stunning ocean views and a relaxed, intimate atmosphere.

Caribbean Charm

The Bahamas is located in the heart of the Caribbean, which means you’ll get to enjoy all the charm and warmth of the region during your stay.

Aside from the beauty of this place, it has a vibrant culture and friendly locals that makes Bahamas a truly unique and unforgettable destination.

Affordable Costs

Contrary to popular belief, a destination wedding in the Bahamas is not as expensive as you might think.

In fact, it can be more affordable than a traditional wedding at home.

According to Destination Weddings, the average cost for a 30-guest destination wedding in the Bahamas is $8,237, which is much more affordable than the average cost of a traditional wedding in the US.

Choosing the Perfect Venue

When planning a Bahamas destination wedding, choosing the perfect venue is crucial.

Luckily, there are plenty of options to suit different tastes and budgets.

Here are some of the top wedding venues in the Bahamas to consider:

Nassau Venues

One of the most popular wedding destinations in Bahamas is Nassau, its capital.

The city is known for its colonial architecture, vibrant culture, and stunning beaches. Some of the best wedding venues in Nassau include:

• Baha Mar: This luxury resort offers a range of venues for weddings, including beachfront locations and ballrooms. The resort also has several restaurants, a spa, and a casino.
• Atlantis: This iconic resort is famous for its water park, aquarium, and casino. It also has several wedding venues, including a private beach, a garden, and a ballroom. The resort also has different accommodation options for everyone.
• Rosewood Baha Mar: This elegant resort is located on Cable Beach and offers a range of venues for weddings, including a beachfront lawn, a pool terrace, and a ballroom. The resort also has several restaurants, a spa, and a golf course.

Out Island Venues

If you’re looking for a more secluded and intimate setting for your wedding, the Out Islands of the Bahamas are a great choice.

Some of the best wedding venues in the Out Islands include:

• Viva Wyndham Fortuna Beach: This all-inclusive resort is located on Grand Bahama Island and offers several wedding packages. The resort has a range of venues, including a beachfront gazebo and a garden terrace.
• Staniel Cay Yacht Club: This boutique resort is located on Staniel Cay, one of the Exuma Cays. The resort has a range of venues for weddings, including a beach, a garden, and a yacht. It also has a restaurant and a bar.
• Cape Eleuthera Resort & Marina: This resort is located on Eleuthera Island and offers several wedding packages. The resort has a range of venues, including a beach, a garden, and a marina.

Wedding Packages and Costs

There are many factors that contribute to the cost of a Bahamas destination wedding, including the wedding package you choose, the number of guests you invite, and the length of your stay.

Wedding packages in the Bahamas typically range from $2,000 to $10,000, depending on the resort and the package you choose.

Most packages include basic wedding essentials such as the ceremony location, officiant, and basic decor.

Some packages may also include photography, videography, and other services.

When budgeting for your Bahamas destination wedding, it’s important to consider not only the cost of the wedding package, but also the cost of accommodations, airfare, and other expenses.

To help keep costs down, many couples opt for all-inclusive resorts that offer wedding packages as part of their all-inclusive packages.

These packages typically include accommodations, meals, drinks, and other amenities, as well as the wedding ceremony and reception.

Planning Your Bahamas Destination Wedding

The first step in planning your Bahamas destination wedding is to find a wedding planner.

The right wedding planner will make transactions easier, making sure that everything is in place for your wedding day.

They will also have valuable connections with local vendors, which can save you time and money.

Once you have found a wedding planner, it’s time to start the planning process.

The first thing you will need to do is choose a wedding date and venue.

The Bahamas offers a variety of stunning venues, from pink sand beaches to lush tropical gardens and elegant ballrooms.

Your wedding planner can help you find the best venue for your style and budget.

Next, you will need to decide on your guest list.

Usually, there are 80 guests in a destination wedding, but you can expect the figure to rise if you plan to invite more people.

Your wedding planner can help you create a guest list and send out invitations.

When it comes to budgeting for your Bahamas destination wedding, the average cost is $20,000, exclusive of the honeymoon and travel expenses.

However, the cost can vary depending on the number of guests, venue, and other factors.

Your wedding planner can help you create a budget and use it wisely.

In addition to the above, there are several other things to consider when planning your Bahamas destination wedding, such as legal requirements, vendors, and transportation.

Your wedding planner can provide guidance on all of these aspects and ensure that everything runs smoothly on your big day.

Accommodation Options

Choosing the right accommodation is key.

Luckily, there are plenty of options to choose from, ranging from luxury resorts to more affordable hotels.

For those looking for a luxurious experience, there are several high-end resorts to choose from.

The Grand Hyatt Baha Mar, for example, offers a wide range of wedding packages.

The resort also has a variety of accommodation options, including spacious suites and villas, all of which come with stunning ocean views.

If you’re looking for something a bit more affordable, there are many options as well.

The Melia Nassau Beach, for example, is a popular choice for couples on a budget.

The hotel offers a range of wedding packag options, and the beachfront location is perfect for those looking to tie the knot with their toes in the sand.

No matter what your budget or preferences, there are plenty of accommodation options to choose from when planning a destination wedding in the Bahamas.

Whether you’re looking for a luxury resort or a more affordable hotel, you’re sure to find the perfect place to stay.

Legal Requirements for a Bahamas Wedding

Getting married in the Bahamas is a dream come true for many couples, but it’s important to understand the legal requirements for a Bahamas wedding.

With the right preparation, however, the process is relatively straightforward and stress-free.

Marriage License

One of the most important legal requirements for a Bahamas wedding is obtaining a marriage license.

To do this, both you and your partner must be present in the Bahamas and provide the following documents:

• Valid passports
• Birth certificates
• Proof of arrival in the Bahamas (such as a plane ticket)
• Divorce decree (if applicable)
• Death certificate of previous spouse (if widowed)

It’s also worth noting that there is a small fee for the marriage license, which can be paid in cash or by credit card.

Waiting Period

Another legal requirement for a Bahamas wedding is a waiting period.

You have to be at least 24 hours in Bahamas before you can apply for your marriage license.

However, this waiting period can be waived for an additional fee.

Witnesses

You will also need two witnesses to sign your marriage license.

If you’re having a small, intimate wedding, your witnesses can be anyone over the age of 18.

However, if you’re having a larger wedding, your wedding planner can help you arrange for witnesses.

Legal Requirements

As for legal requirements, one must be at least 18 to be legally married in the Bahamas.

For anyone younger than that, a parental consent is needed.

Additionally, if you’ve been previously married, you’ll need to provide a divorce decree or death certificate of your previous spouse.

Things to Do in Bahamas

If you also wanted to make sure that your guests would have a great time during their stay, the Bahamas offers a wide range of activities that cater to different interests.

For those who love the water, snorkeling and fishing are must-try activities.

The crystal-clear waters of the Bahamas are perfect for snorkeling, where you can see colorful fish, coral reefs, and even shipwrecks.

Fishing enthusiasts can try their luck in catching marlin, tuna, and other game fish. Some resorts even offer fishing charters, which can make for a fun group activity.

If you’re a foodie, you’ll love the restaurants in the Bahamas.

From seafood shacks to fine dining establishments, there’s something for everyone.

Don’t forget to try the local specialties, such as conch fritters, cracked conch, and Bahamian-style mac and cheese.

For those who love the nightlife, the Bahamas has plenty of options. Nassau, the capital city, is known for its casinos and nightclubs.

The Fish Fry at Arawak Cay is also a popular spot for locals and tourists alike, where you can enjoy live music, dancing, and street food.

Shopping is also a popular activity in the Bahamas.

From luxury brands to local handicrafts, there are plenty of options for those who love to shop.

The Straw Market in Nassau is a must-visit, where you can find handmade straw bags, hats, and other souvenirs.

Surfing and boating are also popular activities in the Bahamas.

The islands have some of the best surfing spots in the Caribbean, such as Surfer’s Beach in Eleuthera and Nassau’s Cable Beach.

Boating enthusiasts can rent a boat or join a tour to explore the islands and their hidden coves and beaches.

Weather Considerations

When planning a destination wedding in the Bahamas, it’s important to consider the weather.

The Bahamas has a tropical climate with temperatures from 70-80 degrees Fahrenheit during the winter and spring months.

The summer months can be hot and humid, with temperatures reaching up to 90 degrees Fahrenheit.

It’s important to keep in mind that hurricane season in the Bahamas runs from June to November.

When choosing a date for your wedding, consider the time of day as well.

The midday sun can be intense, so having a late afternoon or early evening ceremony can be more comfortable for you and your guests.

If you’re planning an outdoor wedding, consider the location of your venue.

Some areas of the Bahamas are more prone to rain than others. For example, the northern islands tend to be wetter than the southern islands.

Renewing Your Vows in Bahamas

Renewing your vows in the Bahamas is an excellent way to celebrate your marriage.

The process is straightforward, and you don’t need to worry about any legal requirements.

You can choose to renew your vows in a traditional ceremony or a more casual one, depending on your preferences.

There are many options available for vow renewal ceremonies in the Bahamas.

You can choose from a variety of packages that include everything from a ceremony on the beach to a more formal event in a chapel.

Many packages include a wedding planner who will help you plan every aspect of your ceremony, from the flowers to the music.

The cost of renewing your vows in the Bahamas can vary depending on the package you choose and the number of guests you have.

However, you can expect to pay anywhere from $800 to $1,500 for a basic package that includes a ceremony, flowers, and a wedding planner. If you want a more elaborate ceremony with more guests, you can expect to pay more.

Exploring Other Islands

While Nassau and Paradise Island are popular choices for weddings, there are many other islands with their own unique charm.

Andros, for example, is the largest island in the Bahamas and is known for its natural beauty.

It’s a great choice for nature lovers, with its vast national parks and blue holes.

Plus, it’s less crowded than some of the other islands, so it’s perfect for those who want a more secluded wedding.

Eleuthera is another great option for a destination wedding.

This island is known for its stunning pink sand beaches, which make for a beautiful backdrop for wedding photos.

It’s also home to some of the best snorkeling and diving spots in the Bahamas, so it’s perfect for couples who love water activities.

If you’re looking for a more lively atmosphere, Freeport is a great choice.

The nightlife scene is so alive here, and it’s also home to some of the best shopping in the Bahamas.

It’s perfect for couples who want to do some retail therapy during their wedding trip.

No matter which island you choose, the Bahamas is a beautiful and welcoming place for a destination wedding.

With its crystal-clear waters, beautiful beaches, and warm hospitality, it’s no wonder it’s such a popular choice for couples tying the knot.

Frequently Asked Questions