Planning your wedding can be one of the most stressful and exciting times in your life. There are so many details to pick; planning can be even more stressful when you have decided to get married in a different country.
Destination weddings are all the rage right now and for great reasons. Often times, the couple has picked a lovely beach or island as the location where they want to exchange vows. A popular option is Costa Rica; the beaches and weather provide the perfect backdrop to a breathing ceremony.
Image Credits glorianchetta0, CC0 1.0
Deciding the Venue
First, you must decide the perfect venue. Costa Rica is unique because there are multiple options to pick. You can get married on the beach overlooking the Pacific Ocean, in the rainforest or the cloud forest, tropical gardens with waterfalls or even on a volcano. Depending on your sense of adventure, Cost Rica can provide a one of a kind wedding that you will never forget.
The rainy season in Costa Rica stretches from May to October, so it is important to take that into consideration when selecting the date and location. One of the amazing benefits of Costa Rica is that it’s also one of the best honeymoon destinations. You can combine your wedding and honeymoon in one location.
Here are some popular locations for wedding venues in Costa Rica.
- San Jose Central Valley Wedding Venues
The international airport is located in the Central Valley, making this location very convenient for the couple and the guests. There are plenty of activities in this area, including museums, volcanoes, and plenty of shopping.
- Beach Wedding Venues
When choosing the beach venue, there are two options – Northern Pacific and Central Pacific. Northern Pacific is a land of extremes – cliffs lead to beautiful beaches, volcanoes tumble down into bays. This is a very inclusive area and is one of the best honeymoon destinations. For a secluded venue, this would be a wonderful option. The Central Pacific is home to a lush rainforest that changes to beautiful beaches.
- Countryside Wedding Venues
The lush landscape of the country side in Costa Rica provides an incredible backdrop to your wedding. Natural beauty surrounds this area; it is full of forests, rivers and hot springs. This area is very romantic, making it one of the area’s best honeymoon destinations. You can include your wedding and honeymoon in one location.
Things to Remember When Planning a Costa Rica Wedding
- Using a wedding planner is crucial; you will be planning remotely and need to trust someone with all of the little details you can’t see to yourself.
- Find a planner that speaks English, and plan to work closely with your team. Most of the communication will be through emails.
- Research reputable venues, check online reviews, and do extensive research before selecting a venue. Your wedding planner will have great suggestions for you.
- You will need an initial deposit to secure your date and services required to plan the wedding.
- Your planner can help you decide the reception and entertainment options. Adding some local culture is a fun option.
- Check the legal requirements for getting married in Costa Rica.
Wedding Ceremonies
In Costa Rica, you have a few different options for the wedding ceremony.
- Non-Religious Ceremony
Secular ceremonies are quickly becoming a popular option. The ceremonies are very customizable; a popular choice is for the couple to write their own vows. They are also very budget friendly.
- Catholic Church
There are some beautiful churches located in Costa Rica. Your wedding can take place in a secluded area, in paradise.
- Christian Church
Having a Christian minister perform the ceremony gives the couple plenty of flexibility while still having a religious wedding.
- Elopement
If you want just to have a wedding for two, without guests, then an elopement ceremony is for you. This is such a romantic option and budget friendly.
Regardless of the options you decide, Costa Rica has something for everyone. It is one of the best honeymoon destinations and one of the best destination wedding options for couples today. Speak to a wedding planner today to discuss all of the amazing options for your perfect wedding.
