GETTING MARRIED IN THE DR Most hotels and resorts in the Dominican Republic offer special wedding packages for the convenience of their guests. Getting married under one of these packages takes the planning of this major event out of the hands of the couple, leaving them to enjoy a honeymoon atmosphere before and after the ceremony. A couple needs to inform the resort at least one month in advance, with a minimum of 15 days notice, in order to reserve the judge. The resort wedding packages all provide flowers, a cake, a seaside wedding site, champagne, the judge, and other special touches to make it a memorable day. Professional services such as video recording, photography, and music are available at extra costs. The resort will inform guests of all the required documents they need to present in order to legally wed in the D.R. However, couples should note that they are expected to have a notarized letter from an attorney, legalized by the Dominican consulate in their country of origin, stating that each one is single and free to marry; a divorce decree if there has been a previous marriage; and passports for the couple and for any foreign witnesses. These documents must be translated into Spanish upon arrival in the D.R. Those contemplating marriage in this beautiful country may contact the resorts in the different areas and compare wedding packages.
