How "free" resort weddings actually work

A complimentary wedding package is almost always unlocked by your stay or your guests' stays. Here's what to check.

1. Thresholds: nights, rooms, or room nights

Brands use three kinds of rules. The couple's own nights: for example, 7+ nights in a Club or Butler room at Sandals. Rooms: for example, 5 rooms for 3+ nights for Hyatt's Wedding in Paradise. Total room nights: for example, 20 paid room nights at Excellence Oyster Bay. One room for one night counts as one room night, so 10 rooms × 3 nights = 30 room nights. Get the exact rule in writing, and ask what happens if guests cancel.

2. Day and time restrictions

Free slots are often weekday mornings only, for example Monday–Thursday, 9am–2pm at Sandals. Weekend or sunset ceremonies usually cost extra.

3. Guest caps

Free packages cover a set number of guests (often 10–50). Extra guests are charged per person.

4. Legal vs. symbolic

Many free packages include only a symbolic ceremony. A legal ceremony adds civil officiant, document, and licence fees. These vary by country, and in Mexico by state.

5. What's never included

Typical extras: photography, upgraded décor, private receptions, outside-vendor fees, and day passes for guests staying elsewhere.

6. Booking windows

Limited-time promos have a "book by" date and a travel window. Check the expiring soon page.