What Things to Remember When Preparing for a Destination Wedding in the Seychelles

The Seychelles is a beautiful tropical paradise filled with golden sandy beaches, turquoise blue waters and an assortment of luxury resorts to match. With breathtaking landscapes around every corner, the Seychelles provides the perfect backdrop for a dream wedding. If you are one of those lucky people able to have a destination wedding, and you’ve chosen the Seychelles as your venue, you’ve certainly made a good choice. Preparation is the key to success in this endeavour, and this can be a stressful task, especially with a venue far away from home. This guide will direct you to the important steps you must consider before your big day.

Choosing the Perfect Venue

The venue is the heart of your wedding, and it can be the difference between a good wedding and a great one. The Seychelles has a wide variety of venues and halls from which you can choose. A standout option among the rest is Anantara Maia Seychelles Villas, a luxury resort that boasts both elegance and natural beauty. Whatever place you decide in the end, you should choose a venue that has multiple options in case the first doesn’t work out. Choosing stunning ocean views for example, promises an intimate and unforgettable setting. If you prefer a beachside ceremony or a garden affair, a well-equipped hotel or resort would be able to provide these options as well. Always invest in a particular resort after making sure that it's everything you want. 

Understanding Legal Requirements

Before you can say “I do” on the sandy shores of the Seychelles, it’s important to take care of the legalities involved in the matter.

Essential Documents: Both parties must present their birth certificates and a valid passport. If you’ve been married before, you’ll also need proof of divorce or a death certificate if widowed.

Translation and Apostille: All documents must be translated into English or French and certified with an apostille. This is an essential step.

Submission Timeline: Send your documents to the Seychelles Civil Status Office at least 11 days before your wedding date. This allows enough time for processing and the publication of banns, which is a legal requirement.

Residency: Unlike some destinations, the Seychelles doesn’t require a minimum residency period, making it convenient for international couples.

Selecting a Suitable Wedding Package

Seychelles wedding packages can simplify your planning process by bundling essential services. This will save both time and energy, especially when you are not in Seychelles for the planning.

Venue Decor and Setup: Most packages include beautifully styled venues, whether on the beach or in a garden. Some hotels offer complementary packages when booking, which could potentially save you money.

Photography and Videography: Capturing every precious moment with professional photography and videography is priceless. To reduce the hassle, you should invest in a local group, preferably someone who can take care of both photos and videos.

Officiant Services: A licensed officiant is typically included, ensuring your ceremony is legally binding and heartfelt.

Timing Your Wedding

The Seychelles enjoys a tropical climate, making it a year-round destination. However, the best time to plan your wedding is during the dry season, which is from May to October. This period offers sunny skies and pleasant temperatures, ideal for outdoor ceremonies and celebrations. If you are looking to have an indoor ceremony, the weather will not play a major role in your big day.

Planning Your Wedding Attire

The Seychelles’ warm and humid climate calls for a more lightweight and breathable fabric, especially for the bride. The groom may choose linen for their suits or beachy attire depending on the type of wedding. Brides might opt for flowy, beach-appropriate dresses. Don’t forget to bring comfortable footwear, especially if you’re planning a beach ceremony.

Pre-Wedding and Post-Wedding Activities

Make your destination wedding a full-fledged getaway by planning activities for you and your guests:

Island Hopping: Explore nearby islands like Praslin and La Digue.

Water Sports: Snorkelling, diving, and kayaking are popular activities that allow visitors to experience the Seychelles’ stunning marine life.