If you have recently said yes to a proposal and are craving the crystal blue waters and warm weather, then perhaps you should consider eloping to Cabo! Although planning a destination wedding, no matter how intimate, can be overwhelming, don't worry! I am here to help you with advice, tips, and tricks to ensure that your international elopement is stress-free. By the end of this guide, you will feel confident about how to elope in Cabo like a pro!
Unforgettable Moments: Creating Your Dream Elopement in Cabo
Bride and groom during their eloping photo session at the beach of Grand Velas
Located at the southernmost point of the Baja California peninsula in Mexico is the well-known holiday destination of Cabo San Lucas. This charming town is popular for its almost year-round sunshine, picturesque white sandy beaches, upscale resorts, and delectable local cuisine. It's no wonder that Cabo attracts couples from all over the globe who are looking to celebrate their love, mark an anniversary, or simply escape the chaos of everyday life.
As someone who has worked in the wedding industry for years, I can confidently say that Cabo is one of the most popular and stunning locations for a destination wedding – and for good reason. With its breathtaking beaches, gorgeous villas, and endless sunshine, Cabo is the perfect place to create unforgettable moments and say "I do" to the love of your life. In this post, I'll guide you through everything you need to know to create your dream elopement in Cabo.
Choosing The Perfect Elopement Location
Choosing the perfect venue is one of the most important decisions you'll make when planning your Cabo wedding. Luckily, there are plenty of options to choose from, whether you're looking for a beachfront villa, a luxurious resort, or a private estate. One of my favorite venues is the Esperanza Resort, located on the breathtaking Punta Ballena peninsula. This stunning resort offers everything from intimate ceremonies on the beach to grand ballroom receptions, making it the perfect choice for couples of all styles and preferences.
If you're at the beginning of your search for a wedding venue in Baja Sur, there are some important considerations to keep in mind. Before booking with a hotel, check if you're allowed to bring in your preferred vendors. Often, hotels may charge high fees for external vendors, and even if you opt for their in-house services, it doesn't necessarily mean they're the best, but rather the ones that bring in the highest commissions for the hotel. As a wedding photographer based in Cabo San Lucas, I understand the importance of choosing vendors that align with your vision and budget. Don't hesitate to inquire about vendor policies before finalizing any contracts, as this can significantly impact your wedding planning experience.
Bride during her Photo session at the streets of San Jose del Cabo
Bride and grrom at The Cape Los Cabos
Cabo Elopement Packages and Prices
When it comes to elopement packages, there are plenty of options to choose from in Cabo. Most packages include everything from ceremony and reception venues to photography, flowers, and catering. Some of the most popular packages include the "Barefoot Elopement" package from Cabo Beach Weddings, which offers a romantic beach ceremony for two, complete with a photographer, a bouquet, and a bottle of champagne.
Prices for elopement packages in Cabo vary depending on the size of your wedding and the services you require. On average, you can expect to spend between $5,000 and $10,000 for a small elopement, and between $20,000 and $30,000 for a larger wedding with all the trimmings.
Planning Your Cabo Destination Wedding
Planning a destination wedding can be overwhelming, but with the right team by your side, it can also be a breeze. When planning your Cabo wedding, it's important to work with a local wedding planner who knows the area and can help you navigate the logistics of planning a wedding in a foreign country. Some of the top wedding planners in Cabo include Amy Abbott Events, Elena Damy, and Linens, Things and More.
It's also important to plan your wedding well in advance, as venues and vendors can book up quickly. I recommend starting the planning process at least 12 months in advance to ensure that you have plenty of time to create your dream wedding.
Legal Requirements for Getting Married in Cabo
Getting married in Cabo is relatively easy, but there are a few legal requirements that you'll need to meet in order to make your marriage official. You'll need to provide a valid passport, a tourist permit, and a blood test that is no more than 14 days old. You'll also need to have four witnesses present at your wedding ceremony, and you'll need to obtain a marriage certificate from the local registry office.
Cabo Officiant
If you're planning to elope in Cabo, you'll want to be aware of the officiating process. In Mexico, a legal marriage ceremony must be performed by a judge. If you choose to have a judge officiate your wedding, you may need to pay an additional travel fee to have them come to your location.
However, if you prefer to have a symbolic ceremony, which means that the legal paperwork was done at home, you have the flexibility to choose who officiates your ceremony. Many couples opt to have a friend or family member officiate, which can add a personal touch to the proceedings.
It's important to note that if you do choose to have a friend or family member officiate, they will not be able to legally marry you. Your marriage will be considered a symbolic ceremony and you will still need to complete the legal paperwork separately.
Witnesses
In addition to an officiant, you'll need witnesses to sign your marriage license. In Mexico, four witnesses are required to sign the marriage license. If you're having a guest-less elopement, any of your elopement vendors can sign as a witness.
However, it's important to ensure that your witnesses have a valid passport, as this is required to sign the marriage license. If necessary, resorts are usually able to provide witnesses for an additional fee.
Getting married in Cabo can be a beautiful and memorable experience, but it's important to understand the legal requirements beforehand. Whether you choose to have a judge officiate your wedding or opt for a symbolic ceremony with a friend or family member officiating, be sure to have your witnesses in order to make your marriage legal.
Activities and Attractions for Your Cabo Wedding Guests
Bride and groom during ther elopement photo session
One of the best things about getting married in Cabo is that there are plenty of activities and attractions for your wedding guests to enjoy. Some of the most popular attractions include the El Arco de Cabo San Lucas, a stunning rock formation at the southern tip of the Baja Peninsula, and the Todos Santos Art District, a charming town filled with galleries, shops, and restaurants.
For adventure seekers, there are plenty of options for outdoor activities, including snorkeling, whale watching, and zip-lining. And for those who prefer a more relaxing vacation, there are plenty of beaches, spas, and golf courses to enjoy.
Cabo San Lucas Wedding Etiquette
When it comes to wedding etiquette in Cabo, there are a few things to keep in mind. First and foremost, it's important to be respectful of the local culture and customs. This means dressing appropriately (especially when visiting churches or other religious sites), being mindful of noise levels, and avoiding excessive public displays of affection.
It's also important to communicate clearly with your guests about any expectations or requirements for your wedding day. This includes dress code, transportation, and any cultural norms that may be unfamiliar to your guests.
Aerial photo of bride and groom walking on the beach during the sunset at Los cabos
Testimonials and Reviews from Previous Cabo Wedding Clients
Don't just take my word for it – there are plenty of happy couples who have tied the knot in Cabo and have glowing reviews to share. Reading reviews from previous clients can give you a better sense of what to expect and help you make informed decisions when planning your wedding.
Conclusion and Final Thoughts
If you're dreaming of a destination wedding in a stunning location with plenty of sunshine, Cabo should definitely be at the top of your list. With its beautiful beaches, luxurious villas, and endless activities, Cabo has everything you need to create unforgettable moments and start your new life together. Whether you're planning an intimate elopement or a grand celebration, Cabo is the perfect place to say "I do."
BONUS: Did those wedding photos look dreamy? You can have yours taken too!
Gonzalo Verdeja is a destination wedding photographer based in Cabo, Mexico. He is passionate about photography and would love to capture every golden moment of your big day. From engagement to wedding photography services, Gonzalo Verdeja delivers quality professional work. Check out more of his craft at www.gvphotographer.com
