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Weddings & Honeymoons
With a culture that goes back over 3,000 years, Samoans are closest to the real Polynesia having had the least western influence and being one of the least visited of the South Pacific islands until recently.
Samoa is blessed with year round warm weather and with its sparkling white sandy beaches, stunning waterfalls, lush tropical rainforests and gardens, Samoa is the perfect romantic destination for your honeymoon or special day.
According to Fa’a Samoa (The Samoan Way), marriage is a sacred union to be honoured and respected so expect your wedding day to be a memorable and hassle free event. There are many suitable resorts that are able to cater for your wedding and honeymoon.
All the services you require for your tropical island wedding can be found in Samoa. Ministers, venues, caterers, photographers and cars can be easily arranged by hotels, resorts and tour operators.
Traditionally weddings are a grand celebration in Samoa, and a different wedding dress is often worn to the ceremony (given to the bride by her family) and reception (a gift from the groom’s family). Samoan brides also wear a pale (head-dress) and the groom wears an ula (floral necklace). Brides are led to the groom by a troop of Samoan warriors and serenaded in song or backed by the fierce beats of the Samoan drums. While none of these cultural touches are mandatory for your destination wedding, it might be a memorable touch at your tropical nuptials.
GETTING MARRIED IN SAMOA
Need-to-know facts:
• Marriages in Samoa are legally recognised worldwide.
• To marry in Samoa you will need to fill in an application for a marriage license at least 14 days prior (but no more than 3 months in advance) to your wedding day with the Ministry of Justice in Apia.
• A fee of ST$14 applies (subject to change).
• You will be required to provide a photocopy of your passport, birth certificates, death certificate (of past spouses) or a copy of the Decree Absolute if divorced, and a Certificate of No Impediment to Get Married.
WHO TO CONTACT
Samoan contact: For your marriage licence, you can apply directly to the
Ministry of Justice in Apia.
Phone: + 685 22671
Fax: + 685 21050 or
Email: ceojustice@samoa.ws
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