How to Plan the Perfect Maldives Beach Wedding - Guide to Organising the Ultimate Destination Beach Wedding in the Maldives

With some of the world's finest beaches lining its islands, it's no wonder the Maldives is among the top beach wedding hotspots on the planet. Made up of more than a thousand islands, the paradise archipelago offers couples countless seaside settings to say "I do" when planning a wedding. From understanding the legalities of a Maldivian marriage ceremony to finding the perfect spot and wedding vendors, here's how to plan a dream wedding in the Maldives.

Image via The Residence Maldives

Legally Speaking 

Couples that intend to tie the knot in the Maldives must first consider the legality of a local ceremony. Unless the bride or groom is of Maldivian descent or is a Maldivian citizen, weddings conducted in the country among two foreigners are not legally binding. This means that couples will need to secure a marriage license/certificate either before or after their destination wedding in the archipelago. The nuptials and reception in the Maldives, is, therefore, purely a celebratory event and not a legal wedding. Although some celebrants will provide couples that say "I do'" in the Maldives a marriage document, it is neither legal nor an official marriage certificate.

Wedding Packages in the Maldives 

Those who are planning a Maldivian beach wedding will also notice that there are a large number of resorts offering wedding packages. Affordable and efficient for those in a rush, wedding packages can cost anywhere from a few hundred dollars to a few thousand depending on the menus, wedding attire, setting and other value-added services that are part of the bundle. Most of these curated ceremonies are non-religious and include set menus and little room for variations based on the couple's preferences. While these types of wedding may not be as romantic as a bespoke celebration, couples on a budget or those who would rather enjoy a stress-free and intimate event should consider them a viable option.

Finding a Wedding Planner 

Affianced couples will find that securing a Maldivian wedding planner online is the easiest way to ensure their wedding dreams are realised on their big day without having to spend months prior to the ceremony in the islands. In addition to securing concessional rates with selected wedding vendors, a local wedding planner will also have a better chance of executing the personal touches and unique elements that are part and parcel of a beach wedding. 

Selecting the Ideal Beachfront 

With so many white, sandy beaches to choose from, it's easy to become overwhelmed when choosing between the plethora of Maldives wedding venues at one's disposal. Whether couples choose the beaches surrounding The Residence Maldives or any other resort, it's crucial to consider whether there's enough shade or room to set up a marquee nearby. Overexposed and windy beaches are unsuitable for private wedding ceremonies as are beaches that are overrun with visitors and families. This is why the catering possibilities, privacy and the environmental conditions of a seaside backdrop must be taken into consideration when choosing the ideal venue.

Other Venue Options

When it comes to ocean and beach-themed weddings, couples have a variety of other location options besides a breathtaking beachfront. Underwater wedding chapels and scuba diving weddings are also accessible in the Maldives where couples can alternately pledge their devotion to one another on a luxury yacht at sunset. Overwater wedding pavilions and underwater restaurants can also serve as wedding venues for those who wish to take the destination wedding concept to the next level.

Choosing Local Vendors 

The next step in the planning process is finding caterers, beauticians, photographers and decorators for the big day. It's important to peruse online catalogues and client reviews before making a down payment on Maldivian wedding vendors as entertainers, florists and other service providers all have their individual strengths and drawbacks. 

Send out Invites

A beach wedding in the Maldives allows couples the chance to cut down their guest list to an intimate few and make the experience a special event for all those who do attend. It's imperative to send out invites at least a month in advance as attendees will need to make their own travel arrangements to visit the Maldives.