Planning Your Dream Beachfront Micro-Wedding in the Bahamas
Thinking about a beachfront wedding in the Bahamas?
After planning weddings here for over two decades, I can tell you it's one of the best decisions you can make for an intimate celebration.
Experience the Magic of Bahamas Weddings
Watch real Bahamas weddings and see why couples choose paradise for their special day
What Makes a Perfect Micro-Wedding
I've planned everything from large resort celebrations to intimate elopements with just a few guests. Micro-weddings - typically fewer than 20 people - have become increasingly popular, and for good reason. They focus on what matters most: celebrating your love with your closest family and friends.
What I've found is that couples actually enjoy their wedding day more when it's smaller. There's less stress about logistics and more time to connect with the people who mean the most to you. Plus, the cost savings are significant - most of my micro-wedding couples spend between $8,000-$15,000 total, compared to $35,000+ for traditional weddings.
Why Choose the Bahamas for Your Beach Wedding
The Bahamas offers several advantages for destination weddings that other Caribbean islands don't:
Convenience: Direct flights from most US cities make it easy for you and your guests to reach. Many couples fly in from Florida in just 90 minutes.
Simple Requirements: US citizens can enter with just a birth certificate and photo ID (though I recommend bringing your passport). The marriage license process is straightforward, with no residency requirements or waiting periods.
English-Speaking: All government offices and vendors speak English, which eliminates communication barriers during planning.
Legal Recognition: Bahamas marriage certificates are recognized worldwide, so there are no concerns about the validity of your marriage back home.
Wedding Package Pricing (2025 Rates)
Here's what you can expect to invest in your Bahamas micro-wedding:
Essential Package ($4,500-$7,000)
Perfect for couples who want a beautiful ceremony without extras:
- Marriage license and legal processing: $500
- Officiant services: $1,000
- Photography coverage (3 hours): $1,200
- Floral arrangements: $400
- Basic ceremony setup: $800
Complete Package ($9,000-$16,000)
Most popular option that includes everything for your day:
- Premium beach venue rental: $3,000
- Full-day photography: $2,800
- Enhanced florals and decor: $2,000
- Music (DJ or live): $1,200
- Reception dinner for your group: $2,500
Learn more about wedding packages in the Bahamas
Luxury Package ($18,000+)
For couples wanting the ultimate experience:
- Private island or exclusive venue access: $8,000+
- Multi-day celebration planning: varies
- Videography with drone footage: $3,500
- Guest transportation and activities: $2,000+
- Customized additions: varies
Planning Timeline: From Booking to "I Do"
8-10 Weeks Before
Start with a consultation to discuss your vision and budget. We'll select your venue and wedding date, then begin the marriage license application process. I also help coordinate hotel bookings for you and your guests.
6 Weeks Before
This is when we finalize your vendor team - photographer, florist, and musician. We'll also work on your ceremony details and send invitations to your guests with travel information.
4 Weeks Before
All vendor contracts are confirmed, and we finalize your reception menu if you're having one. This is also when you should arrange your travel and purchase any wedding attire you haven't already bought.
2 Weeks Before
Final guest count goes to all vendors, and we schedule your rehearsal.
Wedding Week
I handle all final confirmations with vendors and arrange your marriage license application interview with our priority 1-hour service. We'll have a brief rehearsal, and then it's time for your wedding day.
Top Venue Options for Beachfront Ceremonies
For a complete list, see my guide to the best wedding venues in the Bahamas
Cove Beach, Paradise Island
A secluded location that offers excellent privacy for intimate ceremonies. The limestone cliffs create a dramatic backdrop, and you'll rarely encounter other beachgoers. Accommodates up to 30 guests, with venue fees of $3,000-$4,500.
Pink Sands Beach, Harbour Island
Known for its distinctive pink sand created by crushed coral and shells. It's a popular spot, so timing is important for privacy, but the photo opportunities are exceptional. Handles up to 25 guests, with fees of $3,500-$5,500.
Exuma Cays Private Beaches
For couples wanting complete exclusivity, private island access provides the ultimate intimate setting. These locations offer pristine beaches with no outside interference. Accommodates up to 40 guests, starting at $6,000 for venue access.
French Leave Beach, Eleuthera
An eco-conscious choice featuring a solar-powered resort with reef restoration programs. Offers beautiful natural settings while supporting sustainable tourism. Handles up to 20 guests, with fees of $2,500-$4,000.
Nuptial Beach - Cable Beach's Crown Jewel
Nestled along the pristine shores of Cable Beach in Nassau, Nuptial Beach offers an unparalleled sanctuary of romance and refinement. This exclusive stretch of powdered coral sand meets the crystalline turquoise waters of the Caribbean, creating an ethereal backdrop where love stories unfold against nature's most breathtaking canvas. Venue fee runs $2,800-$4,200.
Ocean Club, Paradise Island
Four Seasons luxury with full-service amenities and impeccable grounds. If you want white-glove service and formal elegance, this venue delivers. Accommodates up to 50 guests, with fees of $5,000-$9,000.
Frequently Asked Questions
The standard processing takes 1 business day, while our Priority Bahamas Marriage License Service is a 1-hour expedited service which can be helpful for last-minute changes or tight timelines.
You'll need valid identification (passport or birth certificate), proof of single status, and divorce decrees if previously married. I help ensure all documentation is properly prepared and notarized as required. See the complete legal requirements for getting married in the Bahamas.
December through April offers the most reliable weather - temperatures in the mid-70s to low-80s with minimal rainfall. May and November provide good weather at lower peak-season rates. Hurricane season (June-October) offers the lowest prices but comes with weather considerations.
Yes, the Bahamas welcomes international couples with no residency requirements. The marriage certificates are legally recognized in most countries worldwide.
You need two witnesses over 18 years old. If you don't have witnesses in your group, I can arrange reliable local witnesses for a small fee.
Most venues have covered areas or indoor backup options. In my experience, weather rarely causes major disruptions, but contingency planning is always part of my service.
Legal Requirements and Process
For detailed information, visit my complete guide on how to get married in the Bahamas
Required Documentation
- Valid passport or certified birth certificate
- Single status affidavit (notarized)
- Divorce decree (if previously married)
- Death certificate (if widowed)
- Completed marriage license application
Marriage License Steps
- Complete online application with required information
- Pay processing fees (depending on service speed)
- Collect license from Nassau registrar or arrange pickup
- Ceremony must occur within 3 months of license issue date
After Your Ceremony
Your marriage certificate is issued 2 Business days following the ceremony. Additional certified copies are available for $20 each, and apostille service can be arranged for international recognition if needed.
Why Work With an Experienced Local Planner
Learn more about my background: Meet Glenn Ferguson, Bahamas Wedding Planner
24 Years of Local Expertise
Having planned over 500+ weddings in the Bahamas, I understand the unique requirements and challenges of destination weddings here. This experience helps avoid common pitfalls and ensures smooth execution.
Licensed Marriage Officer
As a government-licensed marriage officer, I can legally perform your ceremony, which eliminates the need to coordinate with separate officiants and reduces your overall costs.
Established Vendor Relationships
Years of working with local photographers, florists, musicians, and venues mean I can secure quality services at competitive rates and ensure reliable coordination.
Full-Service Planning
From legal paperwork to vendor management, I handle the logistics so you can focus on enjoying your engagement and wedding celebration. See my complete wedding planning services.
Client Testimonials
"Glenn made our wedding planning seamless from start to finish. His knowledge of the local requirements and vendor relationships made everything go smoothly. Our Pink Sands Beach ceremony was exactly what we envisioned."
"Planning a destination wedding from Chicago seemed overwhelming until we connected with Glenn. He handled all the details and made the process stress-free. Our Exuma celebration exceeded our expectations."
"Glenn's expertise saved us when we needed to expedite our marriage license. His same-day service and attention to detail made our elopement possible on short notice."
Sustainable Wedding Options
For environmentally conscious couples, the Bahamas offers several eco-friendly choices:
Sustainable Venues
French Leave Eleuthera: I love their solar-powered resort with reef restoration program
The Other Side, Harbour Island: I work with this boutique eco-lodge using locally sourced materials
Private beach locations: I ensure minimal environmental impact with proper planning
Sustainable Practices
- Local flowers I source: Hibiscus, bougainvillea, and native orchids I arrange
- Biodegradable confetti I provide: Rose petals or locally sourced alternatives
- Reef-safe sunscreen I recommend: Protecting the marine life I photograph you near
- Local musicians I book: Supporting Bahamian artists and culture I'm proud of
Your Wedding Day Experience
Morning Preparation (8:00 AM)
Hair and makeup services begin in your hotel suite while I coordinate final vendor confirmations. Your photographer arrives to capture getting-ready moments.
Pre-Ceremony Setup (10:00 AM)
Venue setup is completed and tested, including sound equipment and floral arrangements. Final weather check and any necessary adjustments are made.
Guest Arrival (2:00 PM)
Welcome reception for guests with refreshments while you finish final preparations. Marriage license review and witness coordination.
Ceremony (3:00 PM)
20-30 minute ceremony followed by immediate family photos and celebration. Champagne toast and congratulations from your guests.
Reception Time (4:00 PM)
Cocktail hour with group photos and relaxed socializing. Optional dinner service if you've chosen to include a reception meal.
Evening Celebration (6:00 PM)
Sunset viewing and additional photography. Dancing, speeches, or bonfire on the beach (where permitted) to close your celebration.
Guest Accommodation Recommendations
Luxury Options
- The Ocean Club, Four Seasons: $800-$1,500/night - Premium luxury with impeccable service
- Rosewood Baha Mar: $600-$1,200/night - Modern luxury resort with multiple dining options
- SLS Baha Mar: $400-$800/night - Contemporary design with vibrant nightlife
Mid-Range Choices
- Atlantis Paradise Island: $300-$600/night - Family-friendly resort with activities
- Grand Hyatt Baha Mar: $250-$500/night - Reliable quality with good amenities
- Comfort Suites Paradise Island: $150-$300/night - Budget-friendly with basic amenities
Group Benefits
When booking 10+ rooms, most hotels offer group rates with 10-15% discounts, welcome amenities, and sometimes room upgrades. I can coordinate group transportation from the airport to simplify arrival logistics.
Ready to Start Planning?
If you're considering a beachfront micro-wedding in the Bahamas, I'd be happy to discuss your vision and provide guidance on making it happen. With proper planning and local expertise, your destination wedding can be both beautiful and stress-free.
📞 Phone
1-(242)-395-8495
Call or text, I answer both
📍 Location
Nassau, Bahamas
Serving all islands
Free 30-Minute Consultation
I offer a complimentary consultation to discuss your ideas, budget, and timeline. This gives us both a chance to see if we're a good fit for your wedding planning needs.
Popular wedding dates typically book 6-12 months in advance, though I can accommodate shorter timelines when needed. The first step is simply reaching out to start the conversation.
For more inspiration, browse our real Bahamas wedding gallery and read client testimonials.
Book Your Free ConsultationMore Wedding Inspiration
Beach Wedding Dreams
Kassandra's beach wedding showcases the natural beauty of Nassau's coastline, with pristine white sand and crystal-clear waters creating the perfect backdrop for intimate ceremonies.
Family Celebrations
Aaron's destination wedding demonstrates how beautifully Bahamas venues accommodate both intimate moments and larger family gatherings on the same stunning beachfront location.
Complete Packages
Scott's wedding showcases our comprehensive wedding packages, featuring professional coordination, transportation, local expertise, and attention to every detail that makes your day special.
Intimate Elopements
Chelsy's elopement exemplifies the magic of intimate Bahamas ceremonies, where personal touches and professional execution create unforgettable moments for couples seeking privacy and romance.
🏆 Award-Winning Service
With over 500 successful weddings planned across the Bahamas, Glenn Ferguson has established himself as the islands' premier wedding specialist. His WPIC certification and 24 years of local expertise ensure your special day exceeds every expectation.
