Planning a destination wedding in Bohol, Philippines, offers a unique and beautiful experience, combining stunning natural landscapes, rich culture, and world-class hospitality.
Here’s a comprehensive guide to help you plan your dream wedding in this tropical paradise.
1. **Choose the Perfect Wedding Location**
Bohol offers a variety of breathtaking venues for your wedding. Consider the following options:
**Beaches**
– **Panglao Island**: Known for its pristine white-sand beaches like Alona Beach, it’s one of the most popular wedding spots in Bohol.
– **Dumaluan Beach**: A quieter, more secluded beach that’s ideal for an intimate wedding.
**Resorts and Hotels**
– **The Bellevue Resort**: A luxury resort with beach-front views perfect for a sunset ceremony.
– **Bohol Beach Club**: Offers various packages with scenic beachfront settings.
– **Amorita Resort**: A cliffside venue offering panoramic views of the sea and surrounding nature.
**Nature Spots**
– **Chocolate Hills**: For a more unique wedding experience, consider exchanging vows with the iconic Chocolate Hills as a backdrop.
– **Loboc River**: You can hold a romantic riverside ceremony or even opt for a river cruise as part of your celebration.
**Historical Venues**
– **Baclayon Church**: If you want a more traditional ceremony, this centuries-old church offers a historical setting for your nuptials.
2. **Set a Budget**
Understanding the costs is essential to ensure everything runs smoothly. Here’s a breakdown of possible expenses:
– **Venue rental**: Beachfront and resort venues often include catering and other services but may charge extra for events.
– **Travel and accommodation**: Consider group rates for your guests, including transfers to and from the venue.
– **Food and drinks**: Most wedding packages include catering, but be clear on the menu and drink options.
3. **Hire Local Wedding Planners**
Hiring a wedding planner based in Bohol is highly recommended, especially if you’re planning from abroad.
They’ll help coordinate logistics, understand local regulations, and provide vendor recommendations.
Some trusted wedding planners in Bohol include:
– **Bohol Wedding Planner**: Specializes in destination weddings and offers a range of services from ceremony planning to reception coordination.
– **The Wedding Concierge**: Offers end-to-end services for couples looking for customized destination weddings.
4. **Legal Requirements**
To marry in the Philippines, foreign couples must meet the following requirements:
– **Marriage License**: Obtain a marriage license from the local civil registrar in Bohol.
The application process requires both parties to submit documents such as passports, birth certificates, and proof of citizenship.
– **Pre-marriage Counseling**: A certificate of completion is required, which can be done through the local church or municipality.
– **Civil or Church Ceremony**: Depending on your preference, you can opt for a civil ceremony or a church wedding.
If you are not a Filipino citizen, you may need a Special Power of Attorney if you plan to have a civil ceremony.
5. **Vendors and Services**
Your wedding planner can assist you in choosing local vendors. Here are some key services you may need:
– **Caterers**: Many resorts offer catering packages, but you may want to explore local caterers for a more personalized menu.
– **Photographers and Videographers**: Capture your wedding day with the help of professionals who specialize in destination weddings.
– **Florists**: Local florists can create stunning floral arrangements that reflect Bohol’s natural beauty.
– **Hair and Makeup Artists**: Ensure your look is perfect with local professionals who are familiar with tropical climates.
– **Entertainment**: Live music or a DJ for your reception will help set the mood for the celebration.
6. **Guest Experience**
– **Accommodations**: Book blocks of rooms at nearby hotels or resorts for your guests. Ensure they have transportation arrangements, especially if the venues are not in close proximity.
– **Activities**: Provide your guests with options to explore Bohol during their stay.
Popular attractions include:
– **Chocolate Hills**
– **Tarsier Sanctuary**
– **Loboc River Cruise**
– **Panglao Island diving and snorkeling**
– **Bohol Bee Farm for a unique dining experience**
7. **Plan for Weather**
Bohol’s tropical climate means you should be prepared for warm weather, with occasional rain, particularly during the rainy season (June to November). Consider the following:
– **Time of Year**: The best time to marry in Bohol is during the dry season, from December to May.
– **Backup Plan**: If you’re planning an outdoor wedding, ensure you have an indoor backup plan in case of rain.
Many resorts offer covered venues or options for indoor ceremonies.
8. **Customizing Your Wedding**
To make your wedding truly memorable, personalize it with touches that reflect Bohol’s charm. Some ideas include:
– **Traditional Filipino elements**: Incorporate Filipino traditions, such as the “arras” ceremony (exchanging 13 gold coins) or having a “sword ceremony.”
– **Local Cuisine**: Serve local delicacies such as lechon (roast pig) or traditional Filipino desserts like leche flan and halo-halo.
– **Favors**: Consider giving guests handmade gifts such as local Bohol honey, woven items, or souvenirs from the island.
9. **Final Checklist**
– Confirm travel details for you and your guests.
– Ensure all legal requirements are in place.
– Double-check vendor contracts and payment schedules.
– Create a timeline for the day of the wedding (including rehearsals and photo sessions).
10. **Enjoy Your Dream Wedding**
On the big day, relax and take in the beauty of Bohol. Whether it’s the breathtaking views of Panglao Island or the serenity of a riverside ceremony, Bohol provides a stunning backdrop for the wedding of your dreams.
