How Much Does a Bahamas Wedding Cost?
2026 Price Guide by WPIC-Certified Wedding Planner & Licensed Marriage Officer Glenn Ferguson — every cost explained, nothing hidden
15 min read · Last updated February 2026 · Sources cited
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5.0200+ couples
Glenn Ferguson
WPIC-Certified Wedding Planner & Licensed Bahamas Marriage Officer
Every price on this page comes from my direct experience planning and officiating 200+ weddings across the Bahamas. I'm both your wedding planner and your Marriage Officer — one person handling everything from licence to ceremony to certificate — which is why my packages include services that cost extra elsewhere.
The Real Numbers — What a Bahamas Wedding Actually Costs
I've performed over 200 weddings across the Bahamas over 24 years. Here's what couples actually spend — not internet guesses, but real numbers from real weddings I've planned and officiated.
| Wedding Size | Glenn's Package | Total Cost (incl. flights, hotel) |
|---|---|---|
| Elopement (2 people) | $1,495–$2,395 | $2,800–$5,000 |
| Micro Wedding (2–10 guests) | $2,395–$3,995 | $4,000–$8,000 |
| Intimate Wedding (10–30 guests) | $3,995–$6,995 | $7,000–$15,000 |
| Beach Celebration (30–50 guests) | $6,995–$11,995 | $12,000–$25,000 |
| Luxury / Custom (50+ guests) | Custom quote | $25,000+ |
Important: guests pay their own flights and accommodation at destination weddings. The totals above represent your costs as the couple — your package, your flights, your hotel, and reception/extras for your guests.
Three Ways to Get Married in the Bahamas
Peak season dates (December–March) book 6–9 months ahead — contact Glenn early to secure your preferred date.
Elopement / Just Us
2–6 guests · Nassau beach · 1–2 hours
- Licensed Marriage Officer (Glenn)
- Priority marriage licence processing
- Personal escort to Registrar's Office
- Affidavits of singlehood ($95 ea.)
- Tropical bridal bouquet & boutonniere
- 2 ceremony witnesses
- Certified marriage certificate
- Romance pkg adds: photography + limo
Beach Wedding
6–25 guests · Beach or garden · Half day
- Everything in elopement tier, plus:
- Professional photography (1 hour)
- Roundtrip transportation (limo or bus)
- Musicians (violinist, steel drum, or sax)
- Wedding cake (Sunset pkg and above)
- Hair & makeup (Deluxe pkg)
- Classical trio (Deluxe pkg)
Full Reception
25–50 guests · Ceremony + reception · Full day
- Everything in beach tier, plus:
- Photography & videography (2 hours)
- 50 chairs, arbor, ceremony setup
- Dinner & open bar (Extravaganza+)
- DJ, live band, or steel drum band
- Wedding cake with custom design
- Hair, makeup, and bridal styling
- Full event coordination
4 Sample Budgets — What Couples Actually Spend
These are realistic, line-by-line budgets based on what my couples actually spend. Everything is included — no hidden costs, no surprises.
"Just Us" Elopement
Just the two of you. Simple, legal, beautiful.
Includes: Licensed Marriage Officer, ceremony, flowers, witnesses, licence processing, certificate.
Elopement + Photography
Just the two of you with stunning photos to keep.
Adds: Professional photography, upgraded bouquet, limo transportation.
Beach Wedding — 10 Guests
Ceremony + dinner with your closest people.
Guests cover their own travel/hotel. Includes: photographer, flowers, musician, transport.
Beach Celebration — 50 Guests
Full ceremony, reception, music, dining, the works.
Includes: DJ, photographer, cake, dinner, bar, transport, chairs, full coordination.
Bahamas Wedding vs US Wedding — The Numbers
The Knot's 2026 Real Weddings Study — released February 18, 2026, surveying 10,474 US couples — reports the average American wedding costs $34,000. Zola's 2026 report puts it at $36,000. Here's how that breaks down against a comparable Bahamas wedding with Glenn:
| Cost Item | Average US Wedding | Bahamas with Glenn |
|---|---|---|
| Venue & site fees | $8,573 | $0 (Nuptial Beach included) |
| Catering & drinks | $6,927 | $2,250 (30 guests × $75) |
| Photography | $3,100 | Included ($2,395+) |
| Flowers & décor | $2,800 | Included in package |
| Music & entertainment | $1,800 | Included ($2,495+) |
| Wedding planner | $2,000 | Included (Glenn = planner) |
| Hair & makeup | $1,000 | Included ($4,815+) |
| Wedding cake | $900 | Included ($4,095+) |
| Officiant | $350 | Included (Glenn is the officer) |
| Transportation & misc | $900 | Included ($2,395+) |
| Invitations / stationery | $600 | $0 (digital for destination) |
| Marriage licence | $100 | $310 |
| Couple's travel & hotel | $0 (local) | $2,000 |
| Glenn's package (mid-tier) | — | $6,995 |
| TOTAL | $34,000+ | ~$11,555 |
| YOU SAVE | ~$22,445 | |
Sources: The Knot 2026 Real Weddings Study (Feb 2026, 10,474 couples), Zola 2026 First Look Report. Bahamas figures based on Glenn Ferguson's actual package pricing and vendor rates.
Consider this too: 59% of US couples are delaying buying a home to afford their wedding (Zola 2026). A Bahamas wedding at $5,000–$12,000 lets you have a magical celebration and keep your savings intact.
"Glenn had all the paperwork completed for our arrival and organized a priority wedding license at the government building before taking us to the beach for the wedding. A perfect spot which was secluded and beautiful. For anyone apprehensive about getting married abroad — don't be."— Stacey & Partner, Scotland
Glenn's Packages vs Resort Wedding Packages
Resort packages look convenient, but they're typically 2–4x more expensive for less personalisation. Here's an honest comparison of what you actually get.
| Feature | Glenn Ferguson | Atlantis | Sandals* | Baha Mar / Four Seasons |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Basic elopement price | $1,495 | $5,650+ | $1,300+ | $10,000+ |
| Marriage licence included | Yes | Extra | Extra | Extra |
| Licensed Marriage Officer | Glenn personally | Assigned | Assigned | Assigned |
| Certificate included | Yes | Extra | Varies | Extra |
| Beach location choice | Nuptial Beach (included) | Resort only (facility fee) | Resort only (facility fee) | Resort only (facility fee) |
| Available any day | 7 days/week | Limited | Limited | Limited |
| Custom ceremony | Fully custom | Standard | Standard | Semi-custom |
| Out Island weddings | Exuma, Eleuthera, Abaco | Nassau only | Nassau/Exuma | Nassau only |
| Sandbar / private cay | Yes | No | No | No |
| Cruise ship weddings | Yes — all cruise lines | No | No | No |
*Sandals Royal Bahamian pricing is subject to resort availability and seasonal changes. Verify current rates directly with Sandals. Resort prices shown are approximate starting points and may not include all fees.
Want an Honest Price Comparison?
Tell Glenn your vision and he'll show you exactly what it costs — no pressure, no upsell. Just transparent pricing.
How Much Does a Bahamas Wedding Cost by Island?
Nassau is the most budget-friendly option because Glenn is based there. Weddings on other islands — including Exuma, Eleuthera, Abaco, and Bimini — may require travel allowance adjustments to cover Glenn’s inter-island travel, boat charters, and local vendor coordination. Every island delivers the same full-service, personal experience — Glenn handles everything on-site. Contact Glenn for exact pricing for your preferred island.
| Package | Nassau (Base Price) |
|---|---|
| Sweet Beginning (elopement) | $1,495 |
| Romance (photos + limo) | $2,395 |
| Elegance (photos + music + bus) | $2,495 |
| Paradise (photos + video + cake) | $4,095 |
| Sunset (ceremony for 25) | $4,195 |
| Deluxe (full styling + trio) | $4,815 |
| Nassau Wedding (50 chairs + setup) | $5,995 |
| Extravaganza (dinner + bar) | $8,995 |
| Eternal Love (luxury for 50) | $11,995 |
| Vow Renewal | $375 |
Every Cost Explained — Flights, Hotels, Legal Fees & Extras
Flights to Nassau
Nassau's Lynden Pindling International Airport (NAS) has direct flights from most major US cities. The flight from Miami takes just 55 minutes — shorter than driving across most American cities.
| Departure City | Round Trip (per person) | Flight Time | Airlines |
|---|---|---|---|
| Miami, FL | $271–$350 | 55 min direct | American, JetBlue, Bahamasair, Southwest |
| Fort Lauderdale, FL | $250–$350 | 1 hr direct | JetBlue, Bahamasair, Spirit, Southwest |
| New York (JFK/EWR) | $300–$500 | 3 hrs direct | JetBlue, Delta, United, American |
| Atlanta, GA | $350–$550 | 2.5 hrs direct | Delta, Southwest |
| Charlotte, NC | $350–$550 | 2.5 hrs direct | American |
| Toronto, ON | $400–$600 CAD | 3.5 hrs direct | Air Canada, WestJet |
| London, UK | $600–$900 | 9 hrs (1 stop) | British Airways, Virgin + connection |
Hotels in Nassau & Paradise Island
Most couples stay 3–5 nights. Here's what to expect at each tier:
| Tier | Per Night | Examples | Best For |
|---|---|---|---|
| Budget-Friendly | $120–$200 | Comfort Suites, Warwick, Courtyard Marriott | Elopements, budget-conscious |
| Mid-Range Resort | $200–$400 | Meliá Nassau, British Colonial Hilton, Margaritaville | Most weddings, group rates |
| Luxury Resort | $400–$800 | Grand Hyatt Baha Mar, SLS Baha Mar, Atlantis Beach Tower | Upscale weddings |
| Ultra-Luxury | $800–$2,000+ | Rosewood Baha Mar, Atlantis Royal, Ocean Club Four Seasons | Luxury celebrations |
Government & Legal Fees
| Fee | Cost | Notes |
|---|---|---|
| Marriage licence | $120 | Paid at Registrar General's Office |
| Affidavits of singlehood | $95 each | Required if never previously married |
| Apostille (optional) | $120 | International certificate recognition, 5–7 days |
| Government VAT & charges | Added to package | Government and online/banking charges applied |
Glenn's packages include complete marriage licence processing — document preparation, personal escort to the Registrar General's Office, and priority same-day service. The licence fee ($120 + $95/ea affidavits) is paid directly to the government.
Optional Add-Ons & Extras
| Service | Typical Cost | Notes |
|---|---|---|
| Professional videography | $800–$2,000 | 1–4 hours, highlight reel + full ceremony |
| Hair & makeup | $200–$500 | Bride only; add $100–$200 for bridesmaids |
| Upgraded floral design | $500–$2,000+ | Beyond what's included in package |
| Reception dinner | $50–$150/person | Buffet to formal plated dinner |
| Open bar | $25–$50/person | Beer/wine to premium cocktails |
| Cake upgrade | $300–$800 | Basic cake included in mid-tier+ packages |
| Live steel band | $400–$1,200 | Included in higher-tier packages |
| Welcome bags for guests | $15–$30/person | Local snacks, itinerary, sunscreen |
Every cost above is optional. Glenn's packages include the essentials. Extras are just that: extras you can add if you want them — and Glenn always quotes these upfront.
"Glenn broke down every single cost before we committed. No surprises, no hidden fees. After months of $40,000+ quotes from venues in Connecticut, our entire Bahamas wedding with 25 guests came in under $12,000. And it was ten times more beautiful."— Jessica & Mark P., Cable Beach Wedding, March 2025
What Do Guests Pay for a Bahamas Destination Wedding?
One of the biggest pre-booking concerns couples share with me: "How much will this cost our guests?" Here's the reality — it's less than most people think, and Glenn helps coordinate group rates to keep costs down.
| Guest Expense | Budget | Mid-Range | Luxury |
|---|---|---|---|
| Roundtrip flights (US East Coast) | $250–$400 | $300–$500 | $400–$650 |
| Hotel (3 nights) | $300–$450 | $600–$900 | $1,200–$2,400 |
| Meals & drinks (3 days) | $150–$250 | $250–$400 | $400–$600 |
| Airport transfers | $30–$50 | $50–$80 | $80–$150 |
| Total per guest | $730–$1,150 | $1,200–$1,900 | $2,100–$3,800 |
Want Your Personalised Budget Breakdown?
Tell Glenn your guest count, preferred dates, and vision. He'll send a detailed, transparent quote within 24 hours — no obligation.
How Glenn Saves You Money (While Delivering More)
Most couples don't realise that hiring an independent local planner like Glenn is significantly cheaper than booking through a resort — and gives you a better experience. Here's why:
Glenn is your planner AND your officiant. At a US wedding, you'd hire a planner ($2,000+) AND an officiant ($350+) separately. Glenn is both — Licensed Marriage Officer and WPIC-certified wedding planner. That's two professionals for the price of one.
Glenn uses local vendor rates. After 24 years in Nassau, Glenn's photographer, florist, caterer, and musician relationships mean you get insider pricing — not the marked-up rates resorts charge.
Your venue is included. Glenn's packages use Nuptial Beach as the ceremony venue — a stunning location included at no extra charge. Resort beaches require the payment of a facility fee on top of your package. No $8,573 venue fee (the US average), no surprise facility charges.
Glenn handles the legal work. No separate lawyer, no filing fees, no confusion. He processes your marriage licence, prepares all documents, escorts you to the Registrar General's Office, and handles your certified marriage certificate.
Smaller guest count = massive savings. The average US wedding has 117 guests at $292 per person (The Knot 2026). A Bahamas destination wedding naturally results in a smaller, more intimate guest list — which means less catering, less seating, less everything. Your closest 20–30 people get a vacation; you save thousands.
Line-Item Costs — What Every Service Costs in the Bahamas
Whether you book Glenn's all-inclusive package or plan independently, here's what each service costs in the Bahamas so you can budget accurately.
| Service | Independent Cost | With Glenn's Package |
|---|---|---|
| Marriage licence application | ~$120 | Included |
| Affidavits of singlehood (×2) | $190 | Included |
| Licensed Marriage Officer | $500–$1,000 | Included (Glenn) |
| Bridal bouquet + boutonniere | $200–$500 | Included |
| 2 ceremony witnesses | $100–$200 | Included |
| Certified marriage certificate | $50–$100 | Included |
| Photography (1 hour) | $500–$1,500 | Included ($2,395+) |
| Videography (1 hour) | $800–$2,000 | Included ($4,095+) |
| Limousine / transport | $300–$600 | Included ($2,395+) |
| Steel drum / musician | $500–$1,500 | Included ($2,495+) |
| Wedding cake | $300–$600 | Included ($4,095+) |
| Hair & makeup | $200–$500 | Included ($4,815+) |
| Apostille (international) | $120 | $120 (optional add-on) |
| Dinner reception (per person) | $40–$100 | Included ($8,995+) |
| Open bar (per person) | $25–$50 | Included ($8,995+) |
If you booked every service independently for a beach wedding with photography, music, and transport, you'd spend approximately $2,500–$5,000 — which is why Glenn's packages at $2,395–$5,415 offer exceptional value with the added benefit of one-person coordination.
"In 31 days' time, Glenn managed to put together a dream Bahamas elopement for my wife and I. He was quick to respond, professional, and had a charismatic nature that always put us at ease. I honestly can't say enough for the quality and value of Glenn's services."— Elopement Couple, 31-Day Planning
7 Ways to Reduce Your Bahamas Wedding Cost
These are real strategies I share with my couples — not generic advice. Each one can save you hundreds to thousands of dollars.
1. Choose May, June, or November. These shoulder months have perfect weather but lower hotel rates and more venue availability than peak season (December–April). A November wedding can save 20–30% on accommodation alone.
2. Fly from South Florida. Miami and Fort Lauderdale offer the cheapest flights ($271–$350 round trip) and the shortest flight times (55 minutes). If you and your guests can connect through South Florida, everyone saves on airfare.
3. Use native flowers. Hibiscus, bougainvillea, and bird of paradise are stunning, local, and far less expensive than imported roses or peonies. Glenn's floral arrangements use tropical blooms that look more beautiful in a beach setting than anything you'd import.
4. Choose a weekday. Wednesday and Thursday weddings are increasingly popular for destination celebrations. Some vendors offer 10–15% weekday discounts, and your guests will find cheaper flights on mid-week departures.
5. Book a mid-range hotel + splurge on the honeymoon suite. Comfort Suites Paradise Island sits right next to Atlantis — your guests get the location at half the price, and you upgrade to a luxury suite for your wedding night.
6. Keep the reception simple. A cocktail reception with passed appetisers ($30–$50/person) can be just as memorable as a formal plated dinner ($100–$150/person) — and it fits the casual beach atmosphere perfectly.
7. Start with Glenn's packages. They're designed to include the essentials at the best possible price. Build up from a package rather than piecing things together à la carte — you'll save 15–25% compared to booking each vendor individually.
Not Sure What Your Wedding Would Cost?
Glenn will build you a free, personalised budget — specific to your guest count, dates, and preferred island. No obligation. Just honest numbers.
What Happens After You Contact Glenn?
Getting a quote is free, fast, and zero-pressure. Here's exactly what happens when you reach out.
You Reach Out
WhatsApp, call, or use Ask Glenn. Tell me your vision, guest count, dates, and budget. I respond within 24 hours — usually same day.
Custom Quote
I send a detailed quote with package options, add-on pricing, and total cost breakdown. No hidden fees. No pressure.
Secure Your Date
Pay a 35% deposit to lock in your date. I begin preparing documents and coordinating vendors remotely.
Show Up & Get Married
Arrive in the Bahamas. I handle the licence, escort you, and officiate your ceremony. You just enjoy every moment.
"Glenn made our dream wedding effortless. Every detail was perfect, and his local knowledge saved us thousands while getting exactly what we wanted. We loved the Bahamas so much, we bought a vacation home with Glenn's help!"— Sarah & Mike, Cable Beach Wedding
Bahamas Wedding Cost — Frequently Asked Questions
Ready to Book Your Bahamas Wedding?
Peak season dates fill months in advance — lock in your preferred date today. Glenn provides transparent pricing with every service itemised. No hidden fees. One call and you'll know exactly what your Bahamas wedding costs.
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