Commitment Ceremonies

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 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.

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.

How do I plan a commitment ceremony?

Since there aren’t any rules to a commitment ceremony, the details can be all up to you and your significant other! We recommend that you start with the following:

1. Determine a location.
   You might want to start by discussing where you want to have your ceremony. Is there a location that is important to both of you or would you rather explore somewhere new?

2. Decide how many people you are inviting.

3. Discuss what you want your actual ceremony to look like. Everything from your attire, to the music, to how much you want family and friends are involved.

4. 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.

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!

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