Wedding Planning Checklist in the Philippines

Statistics showed that there is a significant increase in registered marriages in 2021 despite the ongoing pandemic. According to the Philippine Statistics Authority, there are 356,839 registered marriages as of February 2023. This only means that getting married is still one of the most sought-after family traditions in the country regardless of social status.

But really, how much does it cost to get married in the Philippines? 

While many young couples prefer to invest first in buying an affordable house and lot, there are still a few wanted to tie the knot before starting a new family. So, if you’re the latter one, let us help you plan your wedding with ease throughout the process.

2 Most Common Types of Wedding Ceremony

There are two (2) most common types of wedding ceremonies in the Philippines - church and civil wedding. Whichever you choose, both offer couples different options to solemnize their union based on their religious beliefs, personal preferences, and legal requirements.

Church Wedding

A church wedding is a traditional and religious ceremony held in a church or chapel. It follows the customs and practices of the couple's chosen religion, usually Catholicism. The ceremony is officiated by a priest or minister who performs the sacrament of matrimony, including exchanging vows, exchanging rings, and receiving blessings. 

Church weddings often feature traditional rituals such as the lighting of the unity candle and the presentation of the arrhae (coins symbolizing financial unity). The couple and their entourage usually wear formal attire, with the bride in a white gown and the groom in a suit.

Here is a breakdown of the cost of a church wedding in the Philippines.

• Church Fee. Churches usually have a set fee for conducting wedding ceremonies, which can range from around PHP 5,000 to PHP 30,000 or more. This fee covers the use of the church and the services of the officiating priest or minister.

• Donations. It is customary to provide donations to the church and its staff. The amount is typically voluntary, but couples often give around PHP 5,000 to PHP 10,000 or more as a sign of gratitude.

• Marriage License. Obtaining a marriage license from the local civil registrar requires a fee, which varies depending on the municipality or city. The cost can range from PHP 200 to PHP 1,000.

• Church Requirements. Some churches may have additional requirements such as pre-marital seminars or documentation, which may have associated fees.

• Church Decorations. If you desire specific decorations or floral arrangements within the church, you may need to hire a florist or decorator, which can add to the overall cost.

• Music and Choir. If you wish to have a choir or live music during the ceremony, additional fees for musicians and singers may also apply.

Civil Wedding

A civil wedding is a non-religious ceremony conducted by a government official or judge, usually in a courthouse or city hall. So, it is a legal union recognized by the state. Civil weddings are often chosen by couples who prefer a simple, straightforward, and legally binding ceremony. The couple exchanges vows and sign the marriage contract in the presence of witnesses. 

Civil weddings allow for more flexibility in terms of location, attire, and personalization. The couple may opt for casual or semi-formal attire, and the ceremony can be tailored to their preferences.

For the civil wedding cost, here are as follows:

• Marriage License. Obtaining a marriage license from the local civil registrar requires a fee, which varies depending on the municipality or city. The cost can range from around PHP 200 to PHP 1,000.

• Solemnization Fee. A fee is typically charged for the services of the judge or government official who will solemnize the marriage. This fee can range from around PHP 1,000 to PHP 5,000 or more, depending on the jurisdiction.

• Venue Rental. If you choose to have the civil wedding ceremony at a courthouse or city hall, there may be a rental fee for the venue. The cost can vary, but it is usually more affordable compared to other wedding venues.

• Documentation and Legal Fees. There may be additional fees for document processing, such as the marriage certificate and other necessary paperwork.

• Witnesses. Civil weddings usually require a certain number of witnesses, typically at least two. You may need to cover any transportation or accommodation costs for the witnesses if they are not immediate family or close friends.

Complete Wedding Checklist in the Philippines

Embrace the journey towards your dream wedding in the beautiful Philippines. Here is your ultimate guide to wedding planning.

Start Planning

Set your wedding date and ensure both partners are on the same page. You must also need to create a realistic wedding budget to guide your spending. But, choose a wedding theme that reflects your style and personality. Ensure you compile a guest list and save the date cards. For more inspiration, you can visit a wedding website or social media account for a unique wedding hashtag.

Securing the Essentials

Book a picturesque church or reception venue that suits your vision. If you have the budget, it is best to hire a professional wedding planner to ease the planning process. It would also be ideal to find trusted wedding suppliers for your wedding cake, catering, photography, hair and makeup, and flowers. You can also order elegant wedding invitations and plan engagement photos if you still have an extra budget.

Dress to Impress

Select your dream wedding dress and schedule dress fittings. But don't forget about the wedding gown and groom's attire and the wedding party outfits. Moreover, make sure you purchase wedding shoes that combine style and comfort. Lastly, choose meaningful wedding bands and consider engraving.

Ceremonial Details

Arrange for a marriage license and ensure legal requirements are met. If you want to make it more memorable, plan the wedding ceremony script, vows, and music. Decorate the venue with beautiful flower arrangements to make it more romantic. Create a wedding playlist and arrange for a talented DJ or band if you prefer a lively ambiance.

Final Preparations

Schedule beauty treatments, haircuts, and a final dress fitting. You must also need to confirm bookings and make final payments to suppliers. Make sure you coordinate with your wedding coordinator to finalize all details. Prepare a wedding day emergency kit with essentials.

Rehearsals and Celebrations

Schedule a full wedding dress rehearsal and finalize seating arrangements. Host a memorable rehearsal dinner and finalize the guest list if possible. Choose unique wedding favors and thoughtful bridal party gifts. 

Achieving your dream wedding can be more meaningful if you also have an investment to start with as a newly married couple. One opportunity you can take advantage of is owning a brand new house and lot Philippines.

Fortunately, Lumina Homes can help you fulfill these needs. Our affordable house and lot for sale properties are suitable for investment starters like you. It has the standard amenities you need for a new home in a master-planned residential community. Thus, it is a perfect haven for your future kids as well.

Are you ready to get started with your lifetime partner? Get in touch with the nearest Lumina seller for detailed info on our housing packages.