Affordable Bahamas Weddings, Done Right

Island Nuptial elopement packages start at $1,495 and include the legal officiant, ceremony coordination, and the standard documentation work. Mid-tier resort weddings typically run $5,000 to $15,000 depending on guest count and add-ons. Luxury weddings at venues like The Ocean Club, Rosewood Baha Mar, or The Potlatch Club generally start above $20,000 once room-night minimums, vendor fees, and reception costs are included. See all packages.

Both partners need a valid passport, proof of arrival in The Bahamas (typically your immigration card), and a Bahamas marriage license obtained in person at the Registrar General's Department in Nassau. If either partner has been previously married, you'll need the original divorce decree or death certificate. If under 18, written parental consent is required. I handle the paperwork process as part of every Island Nuptial package. See the full marriage license requirements.

You only need to be physically present in The Bahamas for 24 hours before applying for the marriage license. The license is typically issued the same day you apply. Most couples arrive on day one, apply for the license on day two, and marry on day three or later. This makes Bahamas weddings genuinely workable for short trips, including cruise stopovers.

Yes, but only if you arrive in Nassau (or another Bahamas port) at least 24 hours before your ceremony. That usually means starting your cruise a day or two early on a pre-cruise stay, getting the marriage license in person, then sailing afterward. I've coordinated many cruise weddings, typically on Cable Beach with Nuptial Beach as the ceremony location since it's close to the cruise terminal and doesn't require resort booking.

Nassau and Paradise Island offer the most flights, the largest resort infrastructure, and the easiest guest logistics. Eleuthera and Harbour Island offer pink sand, quieter atmosphere, and boutique luxury. Exuma offers the most cinematic water and private villa options. Most couples decide between Nassau (convenience) and Eleuthera (privacy) as their first major decision. Tell me your guest count, budget, and what matters most, and I'll match you to the right island. See the full venue ranking.

Most major resorts have in-house wedding coordinators who can handle on-property logistics. You may still want a Licensed Marriage Officer (legally required for the ceremony itself) and an independent planner for couples who want a single point of contact rather than coordinating with the resort from overseas. I work both ways: as the legal officiant alongside resort teams, or as the planning lead for couples who want everything handled by one person.

Elopements and small Island Nuptial ceremonies can often be planned in a few weeks if your travel dates are flexible. Mid-tier resort weddings typically need 3 to 6 months. Top-tier luxury venues like The Ocean Club, Rosewood Baha Mar, Pink Sands Resort, and The Potlatch Club often require 9 to 12 months for peak season dates (December through April plus major holidays). Reach out as early as you can and I'll tell you whether your timeline is realistic.

Send me your date, guest count, island preference, and budget range, by WhatsApp, phone, or the Ask Glenn form. I'll reply with a recommendation, a package match, and the next steps. There's no fee for the initial consultation and no pressure to book.