How to get married abroad - beautiful places and cost of celebrations abroad
Modern lovers are increasingly abandoning the classic wedding day with a bride price, large feasts, a huge number of relatives, a toastmaster and outdated competitions. Instead, couples decide to hold a romantic and touching ceremony in another country - on a beautiful island or in an ancient castle in Europe. How to organize a wedding abroad, how much it will cost, as well as other nuances of such a celebration, we will discuss in this article.
Official registration
When deciding to have a formal wedding abroad, there are important issues to consider. After all, each country may have different requirements in this area.
Approximate and general package of documents:
- Passports
- Birth certificates
- Marital status certificates
- Documents confirming divorce (if any)
- Documents confirming the change of surname (if it was)
All documents are translated into the language of the state in which the wedding is taking place and notarized.
Where and how to hold an official wedding?
Countries
If everything is clear with a symbolic celebration and it can be done anywhere, then with an official one it is more difficult. So, the list of states where a couple can sign abroad:
- Europe: in Slovenia, Hungary, Germany, Austria, Italy, Greece, Ireland, Poland, Czech Republic, France and Spain. Breathtaking landscapes, aristocratic castles and villas, near a lake or forest. The air is literally saturated with romance, interesting streets, all of these, of course, are European cities that often captivate the hearts of lovers;
- islands: in Cuba, the Grenadines, Sri Lanka, Fiji, Seychelles, Dominican Republic, Jamaica, Mauritius, Bahamas, Barbados, Cyprus and Crete. These options are for lovers of exotic beauty, blue clear seas and hot weather. A wedding held in such a place will definitely be remembered for a long time;
- Near Abroad – Ukraine, Latvia, Bulgaria, Belarus also formalize relations between Russians on their territories;
- other states: Türkiye, United States of America, Australia, Mexico and New Zealand. They will also officially register the marriage, which will be valid in the Russian Federation.
But, for example, Thailand, Egypt, China and the United Arab Emirates, which are so popular among Russian residents, do not allow you to legally start a family, that is, sign, but they can carry out excellent on-site registration.
What documents are needed
You also need to know that the official organization of a marriage abroad has a number of important points, this concerns the necessary papers and the legalization of a marriage in Russia. So, you will need:
- passport of a citizen of the Russian Federation, 2 pcs.;
- birth certificate of the bride and groom;
- certificates from a notary certifying marital status;
- certificates of termination of marriage or death of the previous spouse, if they were previously married;
- a document taken from the civil registry office stating that there are no legal obstacles to the marriage;
- certificate of change of surname, if it was different before.
This package of papers must be notarized while still in Russia, and also translated into the language of the country in which you want to sign.
On certificates of divorce, birth and death of one of the spouses, an apostille is placed - a special badge, which is an international standardized form for filling out information about the legality of documents for presenting them in other states.
Who organizes
Many people on such troubles themselves But for this you will need a lot of free time, as well as extreme attentiveness and composure.
If you still want to trust the professionals, then it could be:
- tour operator - just contact a company that organizes weddings in other countries;
- wedding agencies - the organizer can either be from Russia and you take him with you abroad where the holiday is planned, or you find a person already on the spot.
Price
So, let's look at the approximate cost in some countries. We will give prices in rubles and only for newlyweds, without a banquet hall, cars and guests. All this is calculated separately, based on your desires and capabilities.
- In Cyprus, organizing a ceremony, including flights and accommodation, will cost you 150 thousand.
- In Greece, for 130,000, they will select and decorate the ceremony site for you, and also provide you with a Russian-speaking host.
- In Prague, 120 thousand rubles will be enough to completely arrange the location, documents, and there will also be money left over for rings.
- In Jamaica, 300,000 will be enough to decorate the area, the registrar, and even for flights with accommodation.
- In the Dominican Republic, for 280 thousand you will live in a hotel on an all-inclusive basis, this amount will include wedding registration, a package of necessary documents, flights, and even a photographer.
- On the island of Mauritius they will ask for about 330,000 – this is for all organization services.
- In the Seychelles, such a holiday will cost you 350,000.
- State of Barbados - for flights, accommodation and painting they will ask for 400,000 rubles.
- The most expensive option is French Polynesia , where you will have to pay about 700,000.
Advantages and disadvantages
To be sure whether you want such a ceremony or not, let’s look at the most important advantages and disadvantages of celebrating abroad.
Positive sides
- of course, the registration in question will be unique and inimitable;
- you can find absolutely any place and make all your desires and dreams come true;
- lovers can choose any date for their holiday.
Negative aspects
- official painting abroad is the most expensive of all possible options for holding a wedding celebration today;
- will require long and careful preparation, because it is necessary to: choose a suitable country, book a location you like, obtain permission for marriage, open visas, if, of course, they are needed, find specialists;
- guests - the issue of their arrival is very complex. After all, providing everyone with flights and accommodation abroad is quite expensive. It's good if they take it upon themselves. If not, then you will either have to save for a long time to organize a large, magnificent celebration, or limit yourself to only your closest people.
Some tips
- Prepare for an official wedding abroad in advance, not just a few months, but preferably a year in advance.
- You need to know that some states, before you can be registered, will require you to first live on their territory. For example, on the island of Sri Lanka, this will take four days, in the Seychelles already eleven, but in France as many as forty.
- There are countries where you will have to wait for permission to get married from the authorities. This may take from two months to six months. These especially include: Germany, Switzerland and Austria.
- Abroad, girls do not take their spouse’s surname after the wedding. Exceptions are the Czech Republic, Slovenia and Austria. Therefore, you will need to obtain a certificate of change of surname in Russia.
- Some places have rules regarding religion. For example, on the island of Bali, a couple in love who decides to get married must be of the same faith.
- Choose carefully not only the location for the wedding, but also the state. Find out in advance whether you can officially register there or whether you can only organize a symbolic away ceremony.
- Don’t forget about the list of necessary documents required for registration in a foreign country, especially if you are preparing on your own.
A wedding celebration is an important day in the life of loving hearts, and if you want a wedding abroad, then you definitely need to make your dreams come true. But remember, the most important thing is not the host country, but your sincere and true love!
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Price
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How to organize a wedding abroad and how much does it cost?
More and more couples are choosing to spend the most important event of their lives abroad. The main reason for this is the desire to make the wedding truly unusual, original and memorable. As for the cost, the wedding ceremony itself abroad and preparation for it can cost a relatively small amount; for example, a wedding in the Czech Republic can be held for 700 euros for two. And if you are planning a luxurious ceremony that will have no equal, then go to the picturesque islands of the Pacific Ocean, or to Paris - the city of love and romance! Let's figure it out: where, how and for how much you can organize a wedding ceremony abroad.
How to choose the right place
A wedding abroad offers a lot of possibilities. The celebration can be held anywhere in the world, depending on your desire. France, England, Spain, snow-capped peaks of Austria, kangaroos in Australia, snow-white beaches of Greece.
When choosing a location, consider important nuances:
- Country location and ticket prices
- Organizing a wedding according to local laws
- Russian-speaking wedding agency in the selected country
- Climate, time of year, season
- Customs rules and visa conditions
- Medical requirements (vaccinations, etc.)
- Suitable wedding venues
- Banquet service price
After thinking through all these questions, you can decide which country for your wedding is right for you. The choice of location is greatly influenced by the theme of the holiday and the character of the young couple. Classic romantic weddings are mainly held in Europe. Castles, churches, green landscapes. For beach weddings and unusual options, Bali, Cuba, and Hawaii are suitable. For those who prefer northern landscapes and cool colors, Sweden, Norway, and Iceland are suitable.
Italy
Fans of Italian culture choose one of the picturesque places on the Apennine Peninsula for a wedding celebration. A wedding in Venice, the city of love, will leave a stunning, unforgettable experience. Verona, the birthplace of Romeo and Juliet, will be very symbolic. And Rome or Florence will amaze with their ancient architecture and are the best choice for connoisseurs and history buffs. The cost for two in 2021 starts from 300 thousand rubles.
Czech
When considering more budget options, you can focus on Prague. A city with unusual Gothic architecture, filled with castles and ancient cathedrals. You can easily organize both an official and symbolic wedding in Prague. A wedding celebration in an old Czech castle, to which the newlyweds can be transported by carriage, is an ideal romantic option. The cost of such a wedding in a standard package will be around 100-150 thousand rubles. The cost in 2021 was, of course, lower.
Greece
The country has many different options for hosting a wedding. There are sandy beaches, blue seas, historical sights, and local flavor.
The island of Santorini is one of the most popular options for a wedding. Its special architecture and atmosphere attracts couples from all over the world. The price for two starts from 250,000 rubles.
Cuba
The country with its special atmosphere leaves no one indifferent. For an exotic and not too expensive wedding, this is the most suitable option. Tropical flowers, palm trees, original cocktails, and a fresh ocean breeze contribute to an unforgettable holiday. The mild climate and stunning scenery will forever remain in your memory. A package wedding tour will cost approximately from 150 to 400 thousand rubles.
On a note. Many couples prefer a symbolic wedding, having their marriage celebrated at home and holding the ceremony and wedding dinner abroad.
Traditions of countries
When organizing a wedding abroad, take into account the culture and traditions of the chosen country. Customs and traditional colorful clothing can help create a unique exotic atmosphere for a wedding celebration.
When holding symbolic and official ceremonies, many people like to observe special rituals or conduct the wedding entirely according to the traditions of the country. Almost every nation has some of its own ancient wedding rituals.
Where can you get married abroad, and which countries’ marriages are officially recognized in Russia?
Having a luxurious wedding abroad, getting photographs that are different from the wedding photographs of all your friends and acquaintances is not a fairy tale, but a completely feasible desire. In addition, a wedding abroad can be done officially, with marriage registration, which frees you from unnecessary fuss and standing in lines at the local registry office.
Article 158 of the Family Code of the Russian Federation allows Russians to register marriages abroad; it states: if a marriage concluded abroad of Russia is organized in accordance with the laws of that country, it is also valid on the territory of Russia. But there are also limitations.
For example, in China, the UAE, Egypt, Thailand, you can only have a beautiful ceremony, but you will need to sign in Russia. If you want a wedding in France, you must live in this country for at least thirty days. In Germany, Austria and Switzerland it will be necessary to wait for a response to an application for marriage registration from two months to six months.
The most popular wedding destinations are now the Czech Republic (of its cities, Prague is the most popular among newlyweds), Cyprus, Cuba, Italy, Greece, the Maldives and the Seychelles. Wedding services are very well developed there, so organizing the upcoming event will not be difficult, either by yourself or with the help of agencies. By the way, the latter greatly help save time and nerves, giving you the opportunity to fully concentrate on the wedding, and not on paperwork and negotiations with foreign companies.
What documents are needed for a wedding abroad?
The package of documents for the official registration of marriage may include different items not only in different states, but even in cities of the same country. So it is very important to first check with the city of your choice which documents need to be provided.
To organize a wedding abroad, you usually need the following documents:
- Russian passports;
- birth certificates of the bride and groom;
- international passports and their copies;
- affidavit (certificate from the registry office confirming the absence of legal obstacles to marriage);
- a completed application form (if organizing a wedding from the hotel);
- divorce certificate, death certificate of the spouse (if these events took place).
Cost of organizing and holding a wedding abroad. Options and prices
Typically, a wedding abroad involves costs for the following services:
- Preparation of documents . Collection of documentation required for filing an application, translation and certification of papers, state duties and fees, civil status certificates. The marriage registration certificate you receive and its Russian-language copy are paid separately.
- Organization of a wedding ceremony . Rent and decoration of the registration place, services of a wedding car and its decoration, the wedding ceremony itself, coupled with the services of a judge who officially formalizes the marriage, musical accompaniment, champagne and fruit, the bride’s bouquet and the groom’s boutonniere, the assistance of a wedding coordinator, translator.
- Agency services . Assistance in obtaining a visa and purchasing tickets, tips on choosing a country and place of registration, photographer, operator, restaurant and hotel, etc. As well as providing a permanent coordinator around the country, who, at your request, can organize excursions for you and your wedding guests.
The cost of a wedding abroad is usually calculated for two. Therefore, the basic package of services usually does not include renting a banquet hall and hotel rooms to accommodate guests, as well as snacks that you plan to treat them to before arriving at the restaurant. All this, including excursions and entertainment program, is calculated additionally - depending on your requests and the number of guests.
Budget wedding abroad. Where is it cheaper?
Most often, when a couple in love is faced with the question of where to hold their wedding ceremony, going abroad is rejected due to the seemingly high financial costs. But this has long ceased to be an obstacle. Today you can have a cute, beautiful, but budget wedding in charming places abroad. And at the same time, the cost of such a ceremony may be lower than a wedding in Russia! Let's consider options up to 250 thousand rubles.
What could be wrong with the Cyprus option? Great weather, magnificent beaches, unique nature and architecture. And if you also consider that a wedding tour, which will include not only the ceremony, but also flights and accommodation, will cost only 150 thousand rubles, then the prospects are the brightest.
Or a wedding in Greece. For 1,900 euros you can pay for the rental of the ceremony site, the services of a wedding coordinator who speaks Russian, and decorate the venue. In addition, this amount will be enough for the preparation and legalization of all documents and will still be left for the bride’s bouquet. In Prague, you can spend 1,700 euros, this amount includes almost everything - from documents to rings. And let’s not even talk about the beauty of Prague’s landscapes and buildings; the wedding will turn out just right.
This is just a small part of the ceremonies that can be held quite inexpensively and beautifully abroad. The main thing is to start preparing in advance - then you can also save on air tickets and hotel rooms. If you choose the off-season, and not the peak of the influx of tourists, then a wedding abroad will cost you even less.
Mid-price wedding abroad
If your budget allows you to expand your wedding spending, then you can consider options for ceremonies on the islands. So, for example, a wedding in Jamaica can cost 300 thousand rubles. This amount even includes accommodation for a week and flights for two. And, of course, the ceremony itself and the preparation of documents. A Jamaican wedding is fun, large-scale and very suitable for youth groups. And we can talk about the landscapes of the island for a long time - it’s better to see for yourself, and the photos from the ceremony and wedding walk will speak for themselves - you obviously won’t regret it.
A wedding can be even more beautiful in the Dominican Republic. It is not for nothing that the enchanting beauty of these places attracts tourists all year round, and it seems that you can relax here for the rest of your life. And where else, if not here, can you ideally combine a wedding with a honeymoon? As for the cost, for 280 thousand rubles, you will pay for a flight to the Dominican Republic for two, a week’s stay for your couple in an all-inclusive hotel, and also receive a full wedding package, including everything you need, even the services of a photographer.
Premium wedding abroad
The Caribbean islands are literally paradise on Earth, and Barbados is its highlight. Almost eternal sun and warmth, unsurpassed beaches and unique aromas of flowers - all this is the Caribbean. And their wedding turns out to be sophisticated and elegant. Its cost, including flights and accommodation for two for a week, will be approximately 400 thousand rubles. And this is for a complete set, there will be practically nothing to worry about.
But the title of “standard of luxury” is now held by another island - Mauritius. It has everything: beaches with clean sand and clear water, stunningly beautiful mountains and forests, hotels that are excellent in terms of comfort and service. And a wedding on this “island of pleasures”, taking into account flights and accommodation there, can cost 330 thousand rubles for a full package of all the pleasures and necessary documents.
Another tempting place is the Seychelles. A wedding ceremony here will cost you about 350 thousand rubles, and this is not the limit: it all depends on your needs. If you want something completely exotic, you can arrange a ceremony in French Polynesia - the islands lost in the Pacific Ocean. The ceremony for 680 thousand rubles will not leave you, your guests, or those who look at the photos and videos after your return indifferent. Believe me, few people have such a wedding!
*The information is not a public offer.
*Prices may vary in one direction or another depending on the specific service package.
Gift certificates
You can get a gift certificate for any shooting package for Instagram (Premium, Maximum, Standard)
- Physical (color printing with lamination), validity period 1.5 months = + 1000 rub. to the package
- Virtual, validity period 1 month = +500 rub. to the package
Additional services
- Aerial photography (quadcopter) = from RUB 5,000.
- Unlimited number of looks = +1500 rub.
- Hair + makeup = 3,700 rub. (if you do it in a studio, there is an additional charge for the dressing room)
- Makeup only = 2700 rub. (if you do it in a studio, there is an additional charge for the dressing room)
- Men's hairdresser (barber), stylist = 2500 rub.
- It is possible to rent dresses = from 1500 rubles.
- Photo session in the style of “nude”, “erotic”, “wet in an aqua studio” = + 1500 rub. to any package
- Managing Instagram (composing and designing posts - 2 posts per day) = 9,000 rubles. / month
- Instagram manager = from 15,000 rub. /month
- Adaptation of content to other social networks (VKontakte, Facebook, Tik Tok, etc.) = from 3,500 rubles.
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A beautiful wedding photo shoot abroad – how to organize and conduct it
Traveling abroad always makes a lasting impression, because somewhere people live by completely different laws. Of course, this affects the appearance of their outfits and structures, which contributes to the creation of interesting and unusual photographs.
Among newlyweds, a wedding photo shoot in the Dominican Republic is gaining popularity - this is facilitated by the exotic nature and a lot of bright, rich greenery. But such trips are quite expensive, and photographers target the middle class, who can afford to pay prices based on tourist demand. For these reasons, photographs are created only for two people, which gives them a special romanticism.
How to conduct a wedding photo shoot abroad
It is difficult to organize high-quality photography during wedding ceremonies even in your own city, let alone in another country. The language barrier makes it especially difficult, but fortunately, Russian-speaking photographers live in many countries.
What to pay attention to:
- When choosing a photographer, you need to focus on reviews and examples of his work.
- You should also include funds in your travel budget for a makeup artist or stylist who will select the right look for each country.
- How easy is it to get permission to enter the state?
When choosing a country, you should decide what kind of photography will be organized, because the hot Dominican Republic is completely different from the majestic Czech Republic.
Therefore, careful professional selection of the background for the photo of the bride and groom is required.
Wedding photo shoots abroad – examples
Each country is rich in its own history, so many newlyweds try to visit foreign countries to give their wedding album a special charm. There are 9 most popular destinations that make newlyweds feel like they are in a fairy tale.
Dominican Republic
The main filming locations chosen by the newlyweds are beaches. After all, the shots turn out to be very colorful due to the contrast of white sand, turquoise sea, and blue sky.
Golf courses or small villas are also popular.
When the bride and groom want to take unforgettable photographs, they can choose to travel to Cyprus. The island is quite multifaceted and has a rich history. If newlyweds are interested in photos with ancient walls or ruins, then Larnaca is worth a visit.
And when you want to take pictures against the backdrop of an ancient fortress, photographers recommend Limassol. But if the newlyweds want more modernity, then the city of Paphos is the ideal backdrop for artsy photographs, because it is considered the elite resort of the island.
Of course, in addition to pictures with historical buildings, Cyprus has many beaches with both fine sand and huge white stones.
Italy
Moreover, many houses were built in an era when architects could not imagine facades without decoration. Therefore, even a simple walk down the street will look very beautiful and picturesque.
And given that the country is very sunny, all the pictures will be saturated with golden light.
Greece
Newlyweds choose Greece for its beautiful hills hanging over the sea, picturesque bays with blue water and unique architecture.
It is in this country that there are famous white houses with round blue roofs, which go down the streets to the sea. In addition, there are many architectural monuments and ruins of ancient temples that will look great in wedding photos.
Spain
If newlyweds want to take a photo on the beach, they choose wild areas with sand or rocks, picturesquely washed away by the sea.
An amazingly beautiful island with the opportunity to take a wide variety of photographs.
Newlyweds have a choice of many places where wedding photographers work. This is the city of Ubud, where there are terraces filled with water, a temple, in the silence of which you can create atmospheric photographs.
Also, pictures with a forest background will look very beautiful and thematic . And for sporty newlyweds, the Batur volcano is suitable, next to which the lake of the same name is located. And if you don’t want to climb the mountain, you can do a photo shoot in the village of Kintamani, which offers wonderful views of the volcano.
And, of course, beaches: both cultivated - with clean white sand, and wild - with pebbles or plants that almost touch the water.
Tunisia
Each city is a mixture of many styles: modern European, old French quarters, ancient Islamic fortresses.
Such diversity allows newlyweds visiting one country to create completely different photos.
Vietnam
Vietnam is a tourist country, which is why it has many beautiful hotels and clear beaches. There are also places where they have tried to preserve wildlife as much as possible: such as Monkey Island and Bajo Falls. The country also has ancient temples surrounded by tropical plants, and Christian cathedrals with cobbled squares.
Photo shoots around the world, or How to become a model abroad
Her life is constant travel. At 25, she had already visited Milan, Bangkok, China, Greece, and Portugal. In dreams - Paris. And I think it’s not far off, because Kristina Trusova is a fashion model in demand abroad. Read about how a simple Vladimir girl managed to get into the modeling business in our interview with her.
— Kristin, have you always dreamed of becoming a fashion model?
“No, to be honest, I never even thought that I would do this. It all turned out like this: in 2012, I worked as a secretary at one of the local TV channels. We then covered the Miss Vladimir beauty contest. And a friend told me: “Kristin, try to participate too.” And all my life I had wild stage fright. Therefore, at first I tried to excuse myself for a long time, but then I decided to try my hand. As a result, I passed the casting and won the competition. After that, the Moscow modeling agency “NEW ONE” entered into a contract with me. I didn’t want to work in Vladimir initially. Our model has nothing to do here. At first she was filmed for metropolitan online stores like KupiVIP. Then I got into Cosmopolitan.
— When did you start traveling abroad?
“I went to Milan for the first time in 2014. There I participated in two shows at Fashion Week. Afterwards I had to interrupt my work as a fashion model because I got braces. But a year later, when they were filmed, she signed a contract with the director of a modeling agency from Los Angeles. We communicated with her remotely, via the Internet. She sent contracts, and I already chose the one that suits me. For example, I immediately refused to film in underwear; my figure doesn’t allow it. But despite this, there were many offers. As a result, first I went to Bangkok for 3 months, then to Greece and Portugal. I’ve been to China twice.”
- Where did you like it better?
"In Portugal. It's clean, beautiful and very atmospheric! By the way, I lived there for two months absolutely alone. Sometimes, of course, I felt lonely, but friends and family on the phone and via the Internet did not let me get bored and supported me. So I really want to go back there again.”
— Have you ever had difficult photo sessions?
"Yes. In the mountains in Greece. Filming took place in an icy pool. The water temperature there was probably 15 degrees. It was very cold, but the result was worth it.”
— In which country do fashion models get paid more?
“Usually we have a choice - either to go to Europe, where you will get magazine photos, but little pay, or to China or Bangkok, where you will work like a robot for 12 hours shooting for catalogs, but you will earn good money. I prefer both options.”
— But not every model is invited to shoot in Europe?
“Yes, to get abroad, you must comply with the European format. Ideal parameters for Europe: height from 176 centimeters, hips - no more than 89, weight - up to 49 kilograms. And of course, you should look natural. No pouting lips, fake breasts or anything like that. But the Chinese don’t care at all. Whether you’re small or even a little chubby, the main thing is that your outfits look good on you.”
— How do you keep yourself in such great shape? Proper nutrition?
“If only (laughs). I eat everything: burgers, cakes, pizza. Just don't say that I'm a witch. I'm just lucky. My parents rewarded me with a good figure. For which I thank them very much.”
- They must be proud of you?
“At first, my mother was against traveling abroad and was worried. And now he even jokes: “When will you find a groom there?” But I prefer Russian guys.”
- Models too?
"Never. In appearance, they all seem so brutal, but in their communication and behavior they are too sweet (for me personally). I’m a tomboy at heart, so I need a strong man with a good sense of humor.”
— Do you see yourself as a model in the future?
“To be honest, for me it’s just a hobby and a great opportunity to see the world. Because on Vladimir’s salary, if you are not the daughter of rich parents or the wife of a millionaire, the most you can afford is a trip to Turkey or Egypt once a year. That is why I work as a secretary in a large company and at the same time travel abroad for filming. But I don’t stay there longer than 2 months. I really miss home. I’m my mother’s daughter!”