Saying “I do” in the Bahamas is the dream for many couples powder-white sand, aquamarine water, warm breezes and that unmistakable island vibe. Whether you’re imagining an intimate elopement, a classic beach ceremony, or a multi-day resort takeover for family and friends, the Bahamas offers world-class wedding venues and packages across its islands.
Below is a practical, planner-friendly guide to the top 3 locations, sample all-inclusive package pricing and inclusions, legal steps you must take, perks and extras, things to do for guests, and how a specialist like Luxury Vacations Consulting can make the process painless and memorable.
Top 3 Spots for a Bahamas Wedding
1. Atlantis Paradise Island (Nassau / Paradise Island)
Atlantis is probably the most famous wedding address in the Bahamas: huge resort footprint, dozens of ceremony and reception venues (from private beaches to ballrooms), and deep experience hosting weddings of all sizes and cultural styles. They publish tiered ceremony packages such as “Renewed Love” (about $2,400), “Simply Love” (about $3,750), and larger “Intimate” or celebration packages (starting around $5,600+ depending on add-ons and upgrades). Atlantis makes it easy to find something from an elopement to a large, multi-venue celebration
2. Sandals Emerald Bay (Great Exuma)
If you want crystalline, secluded beaches and an adults-only experience, Sandals Emerald Bay (Great Exuma) is a top choice. Sandals promotes wedding planners, many on-site venues (beach gazebos, garden pergolas, overwater options at certain resorts), and a high level of inclusions when you book their wedding packages. Sandals also markets a “Test-Drive Your Wedding” program to preview planning and wedding options. Package pricing varies by resort and customization; Sandals’ wedding infrastructure and complimentary planner are key draws for couples seeking a turnkey all-inclusive option.
3. Rosewood / Baha Mar (Cable Beach, Nassau)
Baha Mar is a sprawling new-era resort complex on Cable Beach (home to Rosewood Baha Mar among other properties). It offers numerous event spaces, private beaches and gardens, and a luxury service model that supports custom culinary menus and high-end receptions. Rosewood Baha Mar publishes a detailed wedding brochure (venues for 50–200+ guests) and works with couples to create personalized packages that often include private welcome events, rehearsal dinners and spa services. For couples who want modern, customizable luxury with many on-site amenities, Baha Mar is a top pick.
Typical Starting Packages for Bahamas Wedding Packages
- Elopement / basic ceremony (Bahamas general range): $1,500–$4,000 — small ceremony, basic bouquet & boutonnière, officiant, basic photography and a simple cake or champagne.
- Resort all-inclusive packages (mid-range): $4,000–$10,000 — upgraded ceremony site, floral package, pre-ceremony hair & makeup options, officiant and legal paperwork assistance, photo package, small reception (cocktails + plated dinner), and some resort credit or rooms included at a group rate.
- Luxury packages (large celebrations): $10,000–$30,000+ — exclusive venue rental, chef-curated menus, open bar, DJ/live band, extended photography/videography, décor and lighting, welcome events, excursions for guests, and premium suites. High-end properties such as private villas at Baha Mar or bespoke packages at Atlantis and Rosewood can reach these levels.
What the resort wedding packages commonly include
- Dedicated wedding coordinator/planner (often complimentary at resorts like Sandals).
- Ceremony site setup (chairs, simple arch/structure, basic décor).
- Officiant and assistance with local marriage license processing (sometimes included; sometimes an extra fee).
- Bridal bouquet and groom’s boutonnière, cake, basic photography or a photo session (varies by tier).
- A reception option (cocktail hour, plated dinner or buffet) — number of included guests depends on package.
What you must know before you plan a Bahamas Wedding
To get legally married in the Bahamas you’ll need to follow country guidelines: both parties must present valid ID/passports, proof of arrival (immigration entry stamp or card), and documentation of previous marital status (divorce decree or death certificate if applicable). There’s a 24-hour residency requirement before you can apply for the marriage licence, and the licence is typically issued the day after application; fees vary but are commonly around USD $100–$120.
The licence is generally valid for 90 days. Most resorts and planners will help you prepare and lodge paperwork to avoid delays.
Perks of All-inclusive Bahamas Wedding Packages
- Single-point billing and fewer surprise costs: an all-inclusive package bundles many elements so you know most major costs upfront.
- Local expertise & logistics: resorts have vendor lists, on-island florists, photographers and officiants familiar with local rules — they know how to get documents processed quickly.
- Built-in guest experience: guests get access to resort amenities (pools, golf, spa, watersports, kids’ clubs at family properties) making travel and activity planning easier.
- Stress reduction: on-site coordinators handle permit issues, weather contingency plans, and timing so you can enjoy the day.
Things to do for Guests
- Boat trips & island hopping: Exuma day-trips (swimming with pigs, snorkeling Thunderball Grotto) are hugely popular from Great Exuma.
- Water sports & diving: snorkeling, scuba, paddleboarding and jet skiing are widely available.
- Cultural experiences: Junkanoo demonstrations, local food tours, and Nassau walking tours add authentic local flavor.
- Spa and golf days: many resorts (Baha Mar, Atlantis, Sandals) have world-class spas and golf courses for pre/post-wedding relaxation.
Budgeting Tips & Common Extra Costs to Plan For
- Officiant/legal filing fees (sometimes not included).
- Upgraded florals, elaborate décor, and lighting.
- Photographer/videographer add-ons beyond the basic package.
- Live music or DJ, late-night food stations, specialty cakes.
- Guests’ travel and transfers — consider group flights or charter options.
How Luxury Vacations Consulting helps
Planning a destination wedding from afar is logistics + emotion + coordination.
Luxury Vacations Consulting exists to remove the friction. Here’s how we add value:
- Tailored vendor negotiations & package optimization — we compare resort packages, negotiate inclusions and upgrades, and assemble a custom quote that matches your style and guest count. (We’ll show you how to get the most value for your budget.)
- Legal & document concierge — we pre-check your paperwork, confirm required documents for your nationality, and coordinate the license filing with local authorities or a vetted officiant so nothing is missed.
- Guest logistics & room-block management — we secure room blocks, manage group rooming lists, set up a hotel website/booking link and help with airport transfers.
- Design and timeline execution — from mock-ups of décor to day-of timelines, we coordinate local vendors (florists, photographers, musicians) to execute the vision on schedule.
- On-site representation — your dedicated planner (or team) is on the ground to manage deliveries, supervise setup, and troubleshoot—so you don’t have to.
- Value engineering — we know where to save and where to spend (photography, food) for maximum guest impact.
Quick Checklist for Couples
- 9–12 months out: choose island & resort, request wedding brochure & sample packages.
- 6–9 months: book room block and deposit; confirm vendor availability.
- 1–2 months: finalize legal documents and guest logistics; confirm timeline.
- 1–3 days before: apply for marriage licence (remember 24-hour residency rule), hold a rehearsal or welcome event.
Final thoughts
A destination wedding in the Bahamas is more than just a ceremony. It’s a once-in-a-lifetime experience surrounded by turquoise waters, golden sunsets, and joyful island energy. With world-class resorts like Atlantis Paradise Island, Sandals Emerald Bay, and Baha Mar offering luxurious all-inclusive wedding packages, couples can celebrate love with ease and elegance.
From handling legal paperwork to curating dream-worthy décor and coordinating guest experiences, having the right support makes all the difference. That’s where Luxury Vacations Consulting comes in transforming your wedding vision into a perfectly planned reality. Whether you’re envisioning a grand celebration or an intimate beachfront vow exchange, we’ll guide you through every detail so you can focus on what truly matters, celebrating your love in paradise.
BOOK YOUR FREE CONSULTATION WITH US
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