Planning a wedding in the Philippines? Buckle up, lovebirds! 🇵🇭✨ This tropical paradise isn’t just about stunning beaches, lush jungles, and epic sunsets—it’s also home to some of the most breathtaking wedding venues on the planet. But before you start picking out seashell table centerpieces and debating between lechon or seafood, let’s walk through everything you need to know to make your dream wedding come true.
From legal paperwork (yep, gotta do that too!) to budget hacks and the best wedding locations, this guide has got you covered.
Step 1: Choosing the Perfect Date (Because Rain + Wedding Dress = Disaster)
The Philippines has two seasons:
☀️ Dry season (November–May) – Best time for weddings 🌴
🌧️ Rainy season (June–October) – Not ideal unless you love thunderstorms in your wedding album
For a beach wedding with guaranteed sunshine, March to May is golden. Bonus: This is mango season, so your wedding cocktails will taste extra sweet. 🍹
Step 2: Finding Your Dream Venue (The Hardest & Most Fun Part!)
There’s no shortage of jaw-dropping wedding locations here, so let’s break them down:
🏝️ Beachfront Bliss
If you’ve ever dreamed of saying “I do” with the ocean as your backdrop, check out these dreamy destinations:
| Venue |
Best For |
Location |
Website |
| Shangri-La Mactan |
Luxury Beach Wedding |
Cebu |
Visit Site |
| Amorita Resort |
Intimate Clifftop Weddings |
Bohol |
Visit Site |
| Club Paradise Palawan |
Private Island Vibes |
Palawan |
Visit Site |
🏰 Historic & Cultural Venues
If Spanish-era architecture and old-world romance are more your style, consider:
- Las Casas Filipinas de Acuzar, Bataan – A restored heritage village (Website)
- San Agustin Church, Manila – A UNESCO heritage site perfect for a grand Catholic wedding
🏔️ Nature & Mountains
Love cool weather and scenic views? Say hello to these gems:
- Tagaytay Highlands – Breathtaking views of Taal Volcano
- The Mango Farm, Rizal – An enchanted garden setting for nature lovers
Step 3: Budgeting Like a Pro (Because Weddings Can Get Pricey!)
Here’s a rough estimate of wedding costs in the Philippines:
💍 Venue rental: $1,500 – $10,000+
📸 Photography & videography: $1,000 – $5,000
🥂 Catering (per person): $15 – $100
👗 Dress & suit: $500 – $3,000
🎶 Entertainment (DJ, band): $500 – $3,000
💡 Budget tip: Book venues at least 12-18 months in advance to get early-bird rates!
Step 4: Handling the Legal Stuff (Don’t Skip This!)
To get legally married in the Philippines, here’s what you need:
✅ Certificate of No Marriage (CENOMAR) – Get it from PSA.gov.ph
✅ Marriage License – Apply at the local civil registrar (takes about 10 days)
✅ Pre-marriage seminar – Yes, it’s required!
✅ If foreigner is marrying a Filipino – Additional embassy paperwork might be needed
💡 Tip: If legal requirements sound overwhelming, consider having a symbolic wedding in the Philippines and handling the paperwork in your home country.
Step 5: Assembling Your Dream Team (A Wedding Is Only as Good as Its Vendors!)
You’ll need:
📷 A Photographer Who Captures the Magic – (Check out Your Happy Moments)
🌸 Florist – Go for local blooms like sampaguita & orchids
🍽️ Catering – Don’t forget Filipino favorites like lechon, pancit, and kare-kare!
🎤 Entertainment – A live acoustic band or even a fire-dancing show
Step 6: Final Touches & Pro Tips
✨ Guest List & Invitations – Filipino weddings are BIG, so plan accordingly!
✨ Weather Plan B – Beach wedding? Have tents ready just in case!
✨ Wedding Favors – Consider local gifts like handmade pearls or dried mango treats
🔥 Pro Tip: Schedule your wedding photoshoot during Golden Hour (4:30-6:00 PM) for that perfect glow!
Bonus: What to Do After the Wedding? (Hint: Stay for the Honeymoon!)
Why rush back home when you can honeymoon in paradise? Explore:
🌊 Siargao – Surfing & chill island vibes
🏝️ El Nido – Hidden lagoons & luxury resorts
🌄 Banaue Rice Terraces – A cultural escape into the mountains
Your Love Story, Captured Perfectly
Your wedding isn’t just a day—it’s a story, a feeling, a moment frozen in time. And what’s the best way to relive that magic? Stunning, heartfelt photography.
If you’re looking for a wedding photographer who understands romance, light, and capturing those real, raw, emotional moments, I’d love to be a part of your journey. 📷
✨ See my portfolio: Your Happy Moments Blog
✨ Check out photography packages: Investment Page
✨ Let’s chat about your big day: Contact Me
Final Thoughts: Enjoy the Process & Savor the Moments!
Wedding planning can feel overwhelming, but remember—this is YOUR day. Whether you’re exchanging vows on a private island, in a grand cathedral, or barefoot on the beach, the most important thing is the love you share.
So, laugh when things go wrong, dance under the stars, and let the Philippines work its magic. 💕
