Tips to plan the best wedding in Colombia

All you need to know about planning a wedding in Colombia

According to the 2019 Global Wedding Report, to plan a wedding in Colombia takes an average of 8 months, one of the shortest timelines in the world. This South American country also ranks at the top of the list (79%) when incorporating religion into the ceremony. But the choices are endless and as unique as you want.

Multiple destinations around the country

Cartagena is the number one wedding location in the country. The colorful 16^th-century buildings, the Caribbean weather, and the romantic ambiance make it the first choice for many locals and foreigners. Santa Marta, La Guajira, Providencia, and many other Colombian islands are also great beach spots to get married at.

If you are looking for cooler weather, Villa de Leyva, just 3 hours from Bogotá, paints a picture of a fairylike destination. And just outside the capital city, you will also find many dreamy country houses waiting to host the perfect wedding in Colombia.

Medellín is another popular – and warmer – destination. Less than two hours from the city is a hidden paradise: Guatapé. The coffee zone also has fantastic weather all year round and the best landscapes in the country.

What about the dress code

This would depend on two factors. First, the weather at your location. Second, your dress code: cocktail, formal or black tie. Colombians like to dress up and look elegant for special occasions. Women tend to wear long dresses, while men go for black suits and ties.

Traditions and other activities to celebrate a wedding in Colombia

A wedding in Colombia might include a religious ceremony since most of the population is Catholic. So, if you are choosing this path, you must check with the priest to get all the documentation ready for the big day. If you are having a civil marriage, there is some paperwork to do, so you should plan accordingly to avoid last-minute issues. Any kind of wedding must be registered in a notary office to be valid.

Getting married also includes activities before and after the ceremony. If you are having a Caribbean wedding in Colombia, surely your guests would love to enjoy the nightlife in Cartagena, so plan an outing to different clubs. During the day, you could also do some scuba diving in Colombia to explore the reefs. A coffee tasting and a tour around Salento is a must when organizing a wedding in the coffee zone.

Nobody parties like Colombians

The reception is the fun part. Right after the ceremony, everybody moves to the venue to have dinner. The menu usually incorporates traditional dishes, local ingredients and tropical fruits. But any special requests can be accommodated by any catering service.

And finally, let’s get the party started. A DJ and a band will keep attendees dancing to the latest hits all night long. By the end of the day, the “hora loca” or crazy hour, the guests will be wearing carnival paraphernalia and moving to local rhythms. The perfect ending for a perfect day.

6 tips to planning a destination wedding in Colombia

1. The location

The place you are getting married needs to have a meaning for both the bride and the groom. Whether it is where you first met or where you went for your first trip as a couple. You should also have some logistics in mind. Can that magic little town accommodate all your guests or is that secret beach accessible for your grandparents?

2. The planner

Find an expert on destination weddings so you do not have to deal with language barriers or time zones. Depending on your budget, you can get a planner or a coordinator, but either way, you will definitely need help.

3. The invitations

Since you are having a wedding in Colombia, you should announce the date with plenty of time. The further in advance, the more chance family and friends will be able to plan and save for the event.

4. The budget

Go local on things like decor and food. Colombian flowers are world famous, so you will not be disappointed. As far as catering services go, you will find an array of vendors with the highest standards for your event.

5. The accommodation

Choose from a big selection of affordable or luxury hotels in Colombia. No more than 15 minutes away from the venue is recommended. But before you book anything, make sure they have rooms available for everyone.

6. The venue

You need to make a trip before you book anything. Before the visit, set up meetings with vendors so you have the chance to check menus, flowers, and hairdressers. If you are not able to make a second trip, be there at least two weeks before to sort out the final details.