Even if you live outside of Mexico, you still can wed your sweetheart under the laws of Mexico. In order to do this in Ixtapa, you need to know some details… So here we go! In Mexico, you have to be married by an Official Judge (civil judge) who represents the Federal Government of the Mexican Republic for the marriage to be legal and recognized worldwide.

Catholic priests or other religious authorities (Protestant, etc.) can perform religious weddings here in addition to the legal marriage by the Judge. Some Catholic priests will offer to go to your hotel or designated place to officiate. They will, however, ask to see proof of your official marriage performed by the Judge. This can be done the same day or one right after the other.

Official Documents Needed:

• Birth Certificate
• Proof of Citizenship (passport)
• Mexican Tourist Visa (or document that shows your legal stay in Mexico)
• A Medical certificate that says you are in good health & your blood type. This can be from your local doctor or a Mexican one.

Ensure you keep copies of all these documents for yourself and for the Judge. The Judge will ask for both the originals and copies. He will return the copies to you with the marriage certificate.

Official Fees:

• Approximately US $250.00 - For marriage license and document processing
• US $150-$300 for the Judge, depending on the day of the week, time, and location of the ceremony. This fee can include his/her travel to your destination site.

Venues:

Some of the big hotels, small inns, villas, etc. offer basic wedding packages that include: the civil judge ceremony, bridal flowers, champagne toast, wedding cake, and several nights stay for your honeymoon.

Other packages include: simultaneous translation of the ceremony, religious wedding after the official one, honeymoon dinner, reception party, photographer/videographer, longer honeymoon options, guest accommodations, etc.

All Inclusives:

• Dorado Pacifico: 888 738 4205
• Hotel Fontana: 888 248 70 37
• Presidente Intercontinental Hotel: very nice garden areas and right on the beach, with a nice view of the sunset.
• Club Med: very exclusive, beautiful beach and garden areas, beautiful sunset.
• Melia Azul Ixtapa: the best part about this hotel is the oyster bar restaurant right in front of the Ixtapa Island - incredible sunset.
• Qualton Ixtapa, sunset views, located in front of the Island of Ixtapa.

Note that the all-inclusive hotels always charge an extra fee for food and beverage if you decide to have the reception at the hotel for your guests. But there are also other options to have the reception outside the hotel in Ixtapa if you prefer.

Consider buying your wedding rings in the towns in or nearby Petatlán; prices may be cheaper than at home. Plus, Mexican artisans are excellent at jewelry design!

Wed in Ixtapa! Where many happy things happen every day!

This article was contributed by Karen Hohlen.