Get Married or Renew Your Vows in Mexico
Many brides dream of a tropical beach wedding. Or for some, a “get-away wedding” is a simple way of tying the knot without the complexity of a big ceremony.
Getting married in Mexico is easy. Mexico is also a great place to have an anniversary celebration or any special event.
First, there are two (2) options for wedding 
ceremonies in Mexico: a “Symbolic Ceremony,” that has no legal validity; or a “Civil Ceremony,” that is legally recognized.
You can arrange for either type of ceremony in the Wedding Department of most hotels, or ask for a local wedding planner.
The “Symbolic” Wedding or Anniversary Ceremony
A “Symbolic Ceremony” consists of a “blessing” performed by a Non-Denominational Minister. This “Symbolic Ceremony” has no legal validity.
Couples choosing this type of ceremony usually have a civil/legal ceremony in their home country before arriving in Mexico, and then celebrate their union surrounded by our breathtaking locations.
You can have a “symbolic” celebration in any location – a restaurant, a hotel, on the beach, etc. — without limitations or legal restrictions. If you make your arrangements through a hotel, some of them require that the Couple is at the hotel a minimum of 48 hours prior to the ceremony.
The “Symbolic Ceremony” is also arranged for anniversary celebrations to renew wedding vows.
The Civil / Legal Ceremony
A “Civil Ceremony” is a legal union and contains no religious elements, except for what the couple may add. It is performed by a judge.
Translated, notarized documents are required (birth certificate, passport, etc.), along with a medical test for HIV, which can be obtained locally. Again, a local wedding planner or the hotel’s Wedding Department can help to arrange for a Judge and assist with making all the necessary arrangements.
A decorated table with two (2) chairs is often shown as the setting for a wedding ceremony in Mexico (see the photo). Traditionally, the bride and groom sit at a table in front of the judge to take their vows and to sign the legal marriage documents.
Important Note: Obtain an “Apostille Seal”
While “civil” weddings performed in Mexico are recognized in both the USA and Canada, it is recommended that US Citizens obtain an “Apostille Seal” (see Wikipedia: Apostille Convention) on a notarized copy of their wedding certificate. Arrangements can be made with the judge to obtain this seal. You can get more information from the Mexican Federal Government.
Canadian Citizens should contact the Civil Registry of their province of residence to find out if there are any special requirements. For more information, visit the Canadian Embassy website.
The Wedding or Anniversary Dinner/Reception
Part of the splendor and memory of your wedding or anniversary celebration is the reception. Whether big or small, enjoying this “life moment” with friends and family along the magnificent beachfront is a lasting memory that will be shared by all.
Do It!
So, if your dream is to marry your love in a tropical beach setting, do it! Come down with friends and celebrate your anniversary.
Again, it’s easy to get married in Mexico!
