So, you’ve decided to say “I do” in Palawan, Philippines—where the beaches are straight out of a dream, the sunsets look photoshopped, and every moment feels like magic.
First of all, congratulations! Now, let’s turn that dream into reality with a stress-free, step-by-step guide to planning your ultimate destination wedding in Palawan.
12 Months Before: The Dream Stage
🌴 Choose the Date
Palawan’s dry season (November to May) is perfect for weddings—less rain, more sunshine, and breathtaking golden-hour photos.
💰 Set the Budget
Are we talking intimate elopement or a full-blown beach party? Your budget will guide venue choices, guest count, and vendors.
📋 Draft Your Guest List
Destination weddings are usually smaller, so focus on your closest friends and family. The upside? Less drama, more quality time.
10 Months Before: Locking in the Big Stuff
🏝️ Pick the Perfect Venue
Palawan is full of stunning options, but these stand out:
📸 Book Key Vendors
Photographer, videographer, caterer, officiant—get them booked ASAP! (P.S. If you’re looking for dreamy, natural, heartfelt wedding photography, you’re already in the right place. 😉)
8 Months Before: Let’s Get Legal
📑 Paperwork & Requirements
You’ll need:
✔️ Birth certificates (authenticated)
✔️ Passports
✔️ Certificate of No Marriage (CENOMAR)
✔️ Marriage license (issued in the Philippines)
Pro tip: Some resorts offer wedding planning services that include handling legal paperwork—worth checking out!
🎨 Finalize Your Wedding Theme
Boho beach, classic elegance, tropical chic? This is when you start curating your Pinterest board for real.
6 Months Before: Dress Shopping & Guest Updates
👗 Choose Your Wedding Attire
Palawan is hot and humid, so opt for light, breathable fabrics. Flowing dresses, linen suits, and bare feet on the sand? Yes, please.
✉️ Send Save-the-Dates
Give guests plenty of time to book flights and accommodations. A cute wedding website with all the details helps!
4 Months Before: The Fun Details
🍽️ Menu Tasting & Drinks
Filipino food is amazing—consider adding a local touch with lechon (roast pig) or fresh seafood. And don’t forget tropical cocktails!
💄 Hair & Makeup Trials
Humidity = frizz and shine. Find a stylist experienced in tropical weddings to keep your look fresh all day.
2 Months Before: The Final Countdown
📞 Confirm Everything
Reach out to vendors, finalize the schedule, and double-check reservations.
🎉 Plan Pre-Wedding Activities
Why not treat your guests to an island-hopping tour or a sunset cruise? Palawan is paradise—make the most of it!
1 Month Before: The Last Touches
✅ Final Headcount
Confirm RSVPs and send final numbers to your caterer and venue.
🧳 Pack Smart
Wedding attire, travel documents, sunscreen, bug spray (trust me on this one).
Wedding Week: Relax & Enjoy
You made it! Take a deep breath, soak in the beauty of Palawan, and get ready for the best day of your life.
Post-Wedding: Relive the Magic
Once the confetti settles and the honeymoon begins, you’ll want to relive every moment. That’s where I come in!
As a destination wedding photographer, I specialize in capturing love stories in the world’s most breathtaking locations. Want to see how your wedding could look through my lens? Check out my portfolio here: Your Happy Moments Blog.
Looking for the perfect wedding photography package? See what I offer here: Photography Packages.
Let’s make your wedding unforgettable. Reach out anytime: Contact Your Happy Moments.
Wishing you a lifetime of love, adventure, and happy moments! 💛
