Getting married in the Maldives is the dream of many couples who want to celebrate their union in a paradise setting, with white sandy beaches and crystal-clear waters. However, how can you organize such a special event in a destination so far away?
We had the same question and, after researching, we found very little information. At first, we looked for an agency to help us, but we only faced problems. The most famous ones were far too expensive for us. Then, we tried a more affordable option and almost fell for a scam. Therefore, we decided to do everything on our own — and it was the best decision! Everything worked out, we saved money, and the experience was incredible. In addition, we want to share our journey to help other couples turn this dream into reality too.
Choose a Resort that Offers a Wedding Package
The Maldives is a coveted destination for its turquoise waters and paradise islands, with luxury resorts that offer comfortable stays and complete wedding packages — the perfect place for those who wish to combine romance and relaxation on such a special day.
Choosing the right resort is crucial, as it will be the setting for the ceremony and the accommodation for the couple and guests, promising stunning views and memorable moments. For example, look for a place that matches your style, offering everything from romantic beach dinners to relaxing massages at the spa.
In addition, consider logistics for guests, including transfers such as seaplanes or speedboats.
We researched a lot and decided on the Hard Rock Maldives for our wedding. We chose this hotel because it has excellent wedding facilities. Plus, we found more information online than for other hotels, for instance, the website shows details of the wedding packages, including prices. We exchanged emails with the wedding organizers — they reply quickly, which made us feel confident about choosing this place.
It is important to check the hotel’s availability for weddings before booking your stay, because some resorts are very popular and do not host multiple weddings on the same day. We could not get the exact date we wanted; therefore, we had to adapt our itinerary according to the hotel’s availability.
Understand the Local Rules
It is essential to know that weddings in the Maldives are symbolic. Many couples choose to have a civil ceremony in their home country and then celebrate in the Maldives; that is exactly what we did.
We had our civil wedding in Brazil, where we celebrated with our families. In the Maldives, we held a ceremony just for the two of us — known as an Elopement Wedding.
The Hard Rock gave us a symbolic wedding certificate, without legal validity, featuring the hotel logo and the signatures of the witnesses who took part in the ceremony. We loved it as a keepsake — they framed it and delivered it to us the day after the wedding.
What Is an Elopement Wedding
An Elopement Wedding — or “wedding for two” — is an intimate and private ceremony, usually with only the couple present. Traditionally, “elopement” referred to couples secretly running away to marry without parental approval. Today, however, the idea has evolved, and many couples choose an elopement as a simple and personal way to celebrate love without the pressure or cost of a large event.
If you are planning a wedding in the Maldives, it is useful to know this term, because you will find it in many searches and in some wedding package descriptions on hotel websites.
Define Your Wedding Style
Deciding on the wedding style is one of the first and most important steps in planning this special day. Whether it is an intimate celebration just for the couple or a larger and more festive event with friends and family, each detail will be influenced by the chosen style.
The style will influence everything: decoration — from sophisticated floral arrangements for elegant events to colorful décor for relaxed parties — and entertainment, from soft live music to lively bands. In addition, resort packages vary by concept, ranging from basic options for simple ceremonies to luxurious packages for a lavish event.
Wedding Package and Prices
Packages vary a lot depending on the resort and event details, but they generally start around USD 2,000 for basic ceremonies and can exceed USD 10,000 for more luxurious options. In addition, there are always service charges and taxes.
We chose the “Rockstar Wedding” package at the Hard Rock Maldives, without guests. The price of our package was USD 2,800 + taxes (10% service + 16% GST). However, prices and inclusions may change; therefore, check with the hotel for updated information.
The package for the couple without guests includes:
- 60-minute facial treatment at the hotel spa
- Bride’s hair and makeup
- Wedding decoration
- Bride’s flower bouquet
- Decorated buggy to take the bride to the ceremony
- Traditional “Bodu Beru” performance (local drums for the bride’s entrance)
- Flower girls tossing rose petals at the entrance
- Master of Ceremony
- One bottle of champagne
- Hot and cold canapés for the couple after the ceremony
- Two-tier wedding cake
- 2-hour photo session with 100 images delivered on USB
- Framed symbolic wedding certificate
- Romantic four-course dinner on the beach with sand décor
- One bottle of wine for dinner (white or red)
- Floating breakfast in the room the next morning
- 60-minute couple’s massage at the hotel spa
Remember that this wedding package cost does not include accommodation, flights, or other hotel expenses.
Talk to the Resort’s Wedding Planner
Most resorts in the Maldives have a wedding planner who can streamline the entire event, from any necessary documentation to décor and the cake.
We resolved our questions by email with the person in charge. When we arrived at the hotel, she met with us to give guidance and confirm the details. We chose the dinner menu, the floating breakfast, the cake flavor, and informed them about any food allergies. She helped us throughout our stay and was very attentive.
Our Final Thoughts
A wedding in the Maldives can be an unforgettable and exclusive experience. Although it is not a budget option, with careful planning and a realistic budget, this dream can become a meaningful and exciting milestone in a couple’s life.
If you dream of a traditional wedding party, the Maldives may be a better option for the honeymoon. However, if — like us — you do not want a traditional party, the Maldives is the perfect destination. The place is paradise, the weather is usually sunny, planning is straightforward, and you can start your honeymoon right away. Getting married in the Maldives was our best decision! We highly recommend it! ❣️
For more tips about the Maldives, read also:
How Much Does a Trip to the Maldives Cost?
Maldives Travel Guide: Tips, Best Time to Visit and How to Get There
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