So, she said yes!!! Huge congrats from us and, of course, you are going to tie the knot in Thailand, as you are both in love with this enchanting Land of Smiles. In this short article, we present some valuable information to help you plan the perfect tropical paradise wedding.

Sourcing a wedding venue

You are spoilt for choice in the City of Angels, with luxurious ballrooms in Bangkok at some of the 5-star hotels and they have all the facilities you need for a themed wedding. Guests can stay at the hotel, which is super-convenient and when the party is over, you and your soulmate can head to the southern islands for an amazing honeymoon. Start with a Google search and create a shortlist of potential venues, then visit the ones you like and compare packages; you can choose from a list of menus, from buffet to traditional 4-course meal.

Themed weddings

Why not get married in style? You might prefer a 1920s look, or the roaring forties or perhaps a futuristic slant on things. Talk to the venue event manager and they can facilitate all the decor, fixtures and fittings to make your wedding a special occasion that will be remembered for all the right reasons.

Potential discount

If you have friends flying in for the occasion and they book rooms at the hotel, you can get a good discount on the wedding reception package. The hotel would have an event manager and he/she would create the perfect event, tailored to your requirements; set a budget and the venue can usually make it happen. They can handle all the details and they have some great backdrops for photos.

Legality

You will both need affidavits from your respective embassies to certify that you are not married; Google can help you find out what documentation is required; choose a local Amphur Office, which is a government department where you can register the marriage. You both receive a marriage certificate and the ceremony takes about 15 minutes, then you are legally married. You might also be required to provide a translator (some Amphurs require this) and an official can provide one at a small cost.

Marrying a Thai citizen

If you came for a holiday, met a local girl and now you are planning to relocate to Thailand, you can apply for a marriage visa, which entitles you to stay for one year, the visa is renewable annually. To apply for a marriage visa, you must open a Thai bank account and deposit at least 800,000 Thai baht, which must be deposited at least 2 months prior to the application. Once you have received your visa, you can withdraw at any time, just make sure the full amount is in the account two months before the next visa renewal. Most people engage the services of a visa agent, which means you only have to provide the necessary documentation; a letter from the bank to certify funds, a document from your embassy regarding your marital status, a copy of your passport and current visa.

Legal assistance

If it all seems a bit much and you’d rather hire a lawyer, there are English-speaking Thai lawyers who can facilitate the marriage registration, all you have to do is turn up at the Amphur Office on time! The Thai language can be challenging and a Thai lawyer can explain every step of the way. If your partner is Thai, her family will probably want to arrange the wedding party; there are many superstitions; just follow the lead and you’ll be fine.

Bangkok tailors

Both the bride and groom can have first-class attire made by one of the Bangkok tailor shops; affordable prices make it tempting to order a couple of business shirts and a dozen fitted shirts. If you stroll along Sukhumvit Road, there are many fine tailor shops that specialise in wedding attire and they will come to your hotel for the fitting. 

Videographer

Bangkok is home to many freelance videographers; check out some of the expat groups on Facebook to find what you are looking for. You must record the event for posterity and the final cut can be written to DVD and sent to all your guests, plus you will have the best stills to cherish forever. You should meet up with the videographer and share your thoughts on a concept; the best professionals insist on a sit down meeting a few days prior to the big day. Click here for a blog on lighting for wedding photography, which is illuminating.

Getting married in Thailand is definitely something to look forward to and we feel sure that you will look back on that amazing experience, as you both enjoy a long and happy life together.