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Top Guide to Wedding Venues and Paperwork for Getting Married in Todos Santos

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BEST GUIDE FOR A PERFECT WEDDING DAY IN BEAUTIFUL TODOS SANTOS

BY ERIC RENE PENOY

Best Locations & Experiences to Plan Your Dream Wedding & Elopement in TODOS SANTOS

Todos Santos, a charming and artistic town nestled along the Pacific coast of Mexico's Baja California Sur, is a hidden gem for couples seeking a picturesque and intimate wedding destination. Known for its vibrant art scene, stunning beaches, and laid-back atmosphere, Todos Santos offers a unique setting for couples looking to celebrate their love in a beautiful and culturally rich environment. Whether you're planning an elopement, a small destination wedding, or a larger celebration with friends and family, Todos Santos is the ideal backdrop for an unforgettable wedding experience.

As a wedding elopement photographer, I've had the privilege of capturing the beauty of love in Todos Santos. The combination of breathtaking landscapes, colorful colonial architecture, and the warmth of the locals creates the perfect canvas for romantic and authentic wedding photos. From the serene beaches to the vibrant town center, Todos Santos offers a range of venues that can make your wedding day feel truly special.

In this comprehensive guide, we’ll walk you through the top wedding venues in Todos Santos and explain the legal paperwork required to get married in this magical town. With the right planning and preparation, your wedding in Todos Santos can be as stress-free and memorable as you've always dreamed.

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HOW TO PLAN YOUR DREAM WEDDING?

Full Checklist for Getting Married in Todos Santos

  1. Choose Your Wedding Venue
    Select the perfect wedding venue in Todos Santos that aligns with your style, whether it's a luxurious resort, beach venue, or historical inn. Consider accessibility and size.

  2. Gather Legal Documents
    Ensure you have valid passports, birth certificates (translated), and tourist visa proof. Certified copies may be required.

  3. Undergo Blood Tests
    Schedule blood tests at a local clinic in Todos Santos. These tests are mandatory and help confirm you are free from contagious diseases.

  4. Apply for Marriage License
    Visit the Civil Registry office to apply for a marriage license. This process typically takes a few days, so submit your application well in advance.

  5. Find Your Witnesses
    Arrange for two valid witnesses to attend your ceremony. Ensure they bring identification, and they're not related to either of you.

  6. Hire an Officiant
    Ensure a licensed officiant or civil registrar is available to perform the wedding ceremony. Many venues in Todos Santos can assist with this.

  7. Complete Your Ceremony
    On the day of your wedding, exchange vows with your officiant and witnesses. Make sure to sign the marriage license to make the ceremony official.

  8. Obtain Marriage Certificate
    After the ceremony, pick up your official marriage certificate from the Civil Registry. This will be needed for legal and international purposes.

  9. Legalize Your Marriage
    If you're planning to use your marriage certificate outside of Mexico, inquire about the apostille process to ensure international recognition.

  10. Celebrate Your Wedding Day
    After the paperwork is complete, relax and enjoy your wedding day, surrounded by the beauty of Todos Santos and your loved ones.

Top Wedding Venues in Todos Santos

  1. Hotel San Cristóbal Located just steps from the beach, Hotel San Cristóbal offers stunning views of the Pacific Ocean and a romantic, rustic charm that makes it the perfect spot for an intimate wedding. With its vibrant architecture and spacious courtyard, this boutique hotel creates an inviting atmosphere for couples looking to celebrate their love in a relaxed yet luxurious setting. The hotel’s beach access allows for a memorable ceremony with the sound of crashing waves in the background, while its serene gardens offer a lovely space for a reception or cocktail hour. Hotel San Cristóbal is a perfect choice for couples seeking a modern and stylish wedding venue with a touch of Baja's natural beauty.

  2. The Todos Santos Inn The historic Todos Santos Inn, dating back to the 19th century, is one of the most charming wedding venues in the area. Its colonial architecture and lush gardens provide a romantic and intimate atmosphere, ideal for couples who appreciate history and character. The hotel’s cozy courtyard and spacious event areas are perfect for a small or medium-sized wedding. The setting offers a beautiful blend of traditional Mexican design and modern amenities, making it an ideal choice for couples seeking a destination wedding with a mix of elegance and rustic charm.

  3. Casa Tota Casa Tota offers a stylish, modern venue with a relaxed Baja vibe. Situated in the heart of Todos Santos, this beautiful boutique hotel combines art, design, and luxury. Its sleek and chic aesthetic, paired with comfortable accommodations, makes it perfect for an intimate wedding. The hotel has an inviting courtyard and rooftop terrace, both offering spectacular views of the surrounding mountains and town. Casa Tota provides an excellent location for couples looking for a trendy yet cozy venue for their wedding in Todos Santos.

  4. La Bohemia Hotel La Bohemia Hotel is a hidden gem, offering a vibrant and eclectic atmosphere. For couples seeking a wedding venue with personality, this colorful and artistic location is perfect. The hotel’s courtyard and open spaces are ideal for an outdoor ceremony, while the artistic interior spaces are perfect for an intimate reception. La Bohemia is a fantastic choice for couples looking for a more bohemian, creative setting for their celebration, with the added benefit of being centrally located in Todos Santos.

  5. Pescadero Beach For couples who dream of a beach wedding, Pescadero Beach is a stunning and secluded option just a short drive from Todos Santos. Known for its serene beauty and peaceful atmosphere, this beach is perfect for couples looking for an intimate beachfront ceremony. The natural surroundings, dramatic cliffs, and golden sands provide a breathtaking backdrop for your vows, while the gentle ocean breeze adds to the romantic ambiance. Whether you're planning an elopement or a small wedding, Pescadero Beach offers a beautiful and private setting for your special day.

  6. Rancho Pescadero A luxury resort located near the coast, Rancho Pescadero is one of the most exclusive and sought-after wedding venues in Todos Santos. Surrounded by natural beauty, this boutique resort offers beachfront ceremony options and a variety of stunning event spaces for receptions. Couples can exchange vows on the beach, followed by a gourmet reception at one of the resort's beautifully designed outdoor spaces. The attentive staff at Rancho Pescadero will ensure your wedding day is nothing short of spectacular, making it an ideal venue for those seeking a luxurious and unforgettable wedding experience.

  7. Todos Santos Beach Club The Todos Santos Beach Club offers the perfect blend of casual elegance and oceanfront beauty. Situated along the stunning coastline, this venue features spacious lawns with panoramic ocean views, making it ideal for both ceremonies and receptions. The club’s laid-back ambiance is perfect for couples looking for a relaxed, beachy wedding vibe. The venue offers a variety of options for intimate ceremonies or large celebrations, with the Pacific Ocean as the backdrop to your special day. The club is known for its excellent service and ability to create a personalized experience for each couple.

  8. Hotel California Known for its famous history and connection to the Eagles’ hit song, Hotel California offers a whimsical and unique venue for couples looking for a one-of-a-kind wedding experience. The hotel's beautiful courtyard and lush gardens provide an enchanting atmosphere for an outdoor ceremony or reception. The hotel's artful and eclectic decor adds a touch of magic to any wedding, making it a fantastic choice for couples who want something truly special and memorable.

Legal Paperwork for Getting Married in Todos Santos

Getting married in Todos Santos, or anywhere in Mexico, requires completing some legal steps to ensure the ceremony is legally binding. Fortunately, the process is relatively simple for foreign couples, as long as you have the correct documentation and meet the necessary requirements. Here's what you need to know:

  1. Valid Passports Both parties must have valid passports to get married in Mexico. Ensure your passports are up-to-date and not expiring soon.

  2. Tourist Visa If you are traveling to Todos Santos as a tourist, you will need to show proof of your tourist visa when applying for a marriage license.

  3. Birth Certificates Both parties must provide original, certified copies of their birth certificates. These documents must be translated into Spanish by an official translator.

  4. Blood Tests In some cases, couples must undergo blood tests in Mexico. These tests check for certain diseases and are required by law. The tests are typically available at local clinics.

  5. Witnesses Two witnesses are required to attend the ceremony. They can be friends or family members, and they must bring valid identification.

  6. Marriage Application To get married, you will need to apply at the local Civil Registry (Registro Civil) in Todos Santos. It is recommended to submit your application at least three days before the ceremony.

  7. Marriage License After submitting the marriage application, the Civil Registry will issue a marriage license. You will need this to get married and officially registered.

  8. Marriage Officiant Your wedding must be officiated by a licensed officiant or civil registrar. Many wedding planners and venues in Todos Santos can arrange for an officiant to conduct the ceremony.

  9. Marriage Certificate After the ceremony, the Civil Registry will issue a marriage certificate, which can be used for legal purposes. If you plan to use the certificate abroad, you may need to have it apostilled.

  10. Apostille Process To ensure your marriage is recognized internationally, you may need to have your marriage certificate apostilled. This process authenticates the document for use outside of Mexico.

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CONCLUSION

Todos Santos offers a magical setting for couples seeking a wedding destination that combines natural beauty, cultural charm, and intimate venues. Whether you're drawn to the historic elegance of the Todos Santos Inn, the artistic vibes of La Bohemia Hotel, or the serene beachfront of Pescadero Beach, this town has something to offer for every couple's wedding dreams.

When planning a wedding in Todos Santos, it's important to navigate the legal paperwork correctly to ensure your ceremony is recognized. While the requirements are straightforward, making sure you have the necessary documentation, such as valid passports, birth certificates, and blood tests, will ensure a smooth process. Additionally, securing the right witnesses and officiant is key to completing the marriage ceremony legally.

By selecting a venue that matches your style and preferences, and following the necessary legal steps, you can create a wedding day that is as unique and unforgettable as Todos Santos itself. With its breathtaking landscapes and warm, welcoming atmosphere, Todos Santos is the perfect destination to celebrate your love and begin your new life together.