Volcanic in origin, Fiji's islands feature lush tropical forests that rise quickly from unspoiled white-sand beaches. Tropical flowers, encouraged by an annual rainfall of over 100 inches and an average daily temperature of 77 degrees, burst forth in a profusion of colors.
Regarding weather and your wedding: November through January is a risky time to go. There is always the possibility of a tropical storm during these months, so make your wedding plans accordingly.
The following are requirements to marry in Fiji:
- You must be 21 years old or have parental consent.
- Both parties must possess their original birth certificates.
- Both parties must possess valid 10-year passports.
- If either party is adopted, they must possess their adoption papers.
- The minimum residency requirement is 1 day in Fiji prior to getting married.
- If divorced, a Decree Absolute with court stamp.
- If widowed, a former marriage certificate and former spouse's death certificate.
- Legal proof of any name changes. (This would include the case of a bride who was married before and then went back to her maiden name prior to the current wedding.)
- Full names, addresses, occupations, and religious backgrounds of the bride and groom are necessary for the marriage certificate.
The official language of Fiji is English, but you will encounter islanders who speak Fijian and Hindustani. Fijians are predominantly Christians of Methodist or Roman Catholic denominations. Hindu, Buddhist, and Muslim religions are also practiced, and freedom of religion is guaranteed and encouraged.
A traditional Fijian wedding is a grand affair! Treated like royalty, the newlyweds enjoy a "solevu" (great feast) with their friends and family following a Christian wedding ceremony.
"Mai Kan!" or "Come Eat!" At the solevu, dishes include taro and cassava roots plus tropical fruits grown on the islands, such as mangos, pineapples, bananas, and papayas. Seafood, beef, pork, and chicken are also served and sometimes mixed with curries. "Roti," a round flatbread, is used instead of utensils to scoop the food.
Yaqonna, or Kava, is a drink offered at special Fijian occasions. When accepting a cup, you should clap three or more times to celebrate the gift. Yaqonna is thought to bring well-being to those who drink it. It is served as part of the solevu.
Fijian society is very casual, yet filled with many symbolic gestures meant to show respect. By searching on the Internet and reading tourism guides, you can learn about Fijian culture and customs prior to your trip.
When planning your wedding you may find it helpful to seek the assistance of a wedding planner in Fiji, or one in the US who is familiar with Fijian customs and who knows what options are available for your ceremony and its location.
If you would like to plan your wedding yourself, the easiest way would be to contact a hotel on Fiji that offers all-inclusive accommodations and services. They can provide you with a wedding coordinator who will explain your options and guide you in selecting a wedding plan that is right for you. Alternatively, if you have the time and expertise, you can research each element of your wedding yourself and come up with a unique destination-wedding ceremony, reception and honeymoon.
Whether you plan to arrive by sailboat and marry on the beach, backpack around the islands staying in hostels, or fly over first-class and relax in a five-star resort, a destination wedding in Fiji will be a sweet South Pacific dream come true.