If you’re considering a destination wedding, Mexico and Puerto Rico are popular options for many couples. Couples often wonder which destination would be a more cost-effective choice, Mexico or Puerto Rico. While both provide beautiful beaches, rich culture, and lively atmosphere, there are some differences between the two that could make one cheaper than the other. In this blog post, we will compare the prices of getting married in Mexico and Puerto Rico to help you determine which location would be the most cost-effective option for your special day.
Wedding Packages
When it comes to amenities and price, the wedding packages offered by resorts in Mexico are generally cheaper than those in Puerto Rico. Most wedding packages in Mexico will include everything from the ceremony to the reception, while in Puerto Rico, you may find a variety of choices, including all-inclusive resorts, which provide everything from food and drinks to decorations. On average, the cost of a wedding package in Mexico can range from $2,000 to $5,000, depending on the resort and package chosen. While in Puerto Rico, the packages can range from $4,000 to $7,000 or more.
Accommodations and Flights
Flight costs could be the biggest factor in determining whether Mexico or Puerto Rico would be the cheaper option for your wedding destination. While fares can fluctuate depending on your location, the average flight cost from the United States to Mexico is less expensive than the flight cost to Puerto Rico. Additionally, accommodation rates in Mexico are generally cheaper than Puerto Rico.
Legalities and Requirements
It’s important to note that both Mexico and Puerto Rico require specific documentation to legally get married in their respective countries. In Mexico, couples must obtain a marriage license and legal certificate, which can take up to five days to process. In Puerto Rico, couples must provide several documents, including a valid photo ID and birth certificate. Couples must also apply for a marriage license at least 10 days and no more than 30 days before their wedding date. Be sure to research and factor these requirements into your wedding budget.
Conclusion
When it comes to choosing between Mexico and Puerto Rico for your destination wedding, both provide unique experiences. However, Mexico is the cheaper option when considering wedding packages, accommodations, and flight costs. However, it’s important to keep in mind that the final cost can vary depending on other factors, such as the season or location of the venue, the size of your wedding, and any add-ons or upgrades you choose. In the end, the best way to determine which destination would work best for your budget is to do your research and compare costs between the two destinations.
FAQ
Is getting married in Mexico legal in the US?
Getting married in Mexico can be a great option for couples looking to have a destination wedding, but is it legal in the US? The short answer is yes. However, there are certain things to keep in mind before planning a Mexican wedding.
Firstly, only a civil wedding ceremony will be considered legally binding for an American citizen getting married in Mexico. This means that any religious or symbolic ceremonies will not be legally recognized in the United States. Therefore, if you want to ensure that your marriage is legally valid, it is vital that you have a civil ceremony in Mexico.
Civil ceremonies in Mexico require some pre-planning, and you will need to gather a few documents before you can say “I Do.” These documents include a valid passport, a birth certificate translated into Spanish, and a blood test that must be done in Mexico. Additionally, you will need to arrive in Mexico several days before the ceremony as there is a waiting period of at least three days.
Once you have all the necessary documents, you can hire a wedding planner who can help you navigate the process of getting married in Mexico. They can help you with all the legal aspects of planning a wedding and ensure that everything is taken care of before you arrive.
After exchanging vows, you’ll receive a civil registry document, which is the legal document that proves your marriage. This document will need to be taken to the United States embassy or consulate in Mexico to be translated and validated, after which it can be used to apply for a US marriage license.
Getting married in Mexico is legal in the US, provided that you have a civil ceremony and all the necessary documents have been obtained and validated. If you are considering getting married in Mexico, it is important to do thorough research on legal requirements and enlist the help of a reputable wedding planner.
