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My fiance and I just made a pretty last minute decision to get married in Bali this coming October (originally planned in California for May of 2008!). I wondered if anyone here could point us to a reputable wedding coordination company to help us plan the big event. Well, actually, it'll be quite a small event with just the two of us. Either way, we need help!

Also, any suggestions for stunning locations. We're staying in Legian and would prefer something close by, but are open to a more out of the way site if it is truly one-of-a-kind.

Thanks so much

That is great news Travel Betty. Congrats to your both!

In fact, my wife and I got married in Bali nearly four years ago. We chose a fishing village at Jibaran Beach to hold the ceremony. She wore a flowing white gown that she designed and had made in Beijing, and might I say she looked fabulous. I wore a tailored tux that I had also had made in Beijing. Neither of us wore shoes.

Actually, we had two ceremonies. The first ceremony was with the preacher-like guy who didn't speak English very well and couldn't pronounce my first name, so he just called me Sam. He had a nice robe, so we think he was ordained somewhere. Once he blessed us, we thought we were done and could begin to eat the wonderful meal that had been arranged for us just at the edge of the water. But meal had to wait a few more minutes. The Indonesian Ministry of Marriage (or some such organization) showed up wearing what looked like Safari outfits. The two officials performed another small ceremony and invited us to sign the “official” certificate (hmmm…at least we think we are married – we have to trust the English translation of the Indonesian Marriage Certificate).

I would recommend the wedding planning company (I’ll get the contact info from my wife later today). They were well organized, perform many weddings each year and are flexible to customers’ demands. Everything was taken care of, per our requirements, so that we could really enjoy the special day.

After the ceremonies and before the meal, we walked around the village with the photographer. He got some really nice shots that we will always cherish. Unfortunately, he got a lot more crappy shots then good ones. I don’t have his card anymore, so I can’t tell you who to avoid. But, make sure that you inspect prior work by whatever photographer that you use, before the big day. We didn’t video tape the wedding, but a mysterious 250 pound Speedo wearing tourist did. We never talked to him, but I have always wondered if he and his family sit around their living room on the weekends, eating popcorn and watching the video of our wedding.

Also, as American citizens (you are American, right?), make sure that you budget enough time, a day or two before the wedding, to visit the US consulate. You’ll need to sign a couple documents.

Cheers!

"Sam!" I love it! Nothing like a personal touch. Thanks so much for getting back to me, Heath. Sounds like a very memorable and meaningful experience in Bali.

If you find out the name of the planning company, please do let me know. I'm having a hard time wading through all of the so-called reputable companies online. A great website does not make up for experience!

Thanks again,

TB

Found it. Here is the site for the company that we used. The site wasn't working yesterday, but seems to be back now.

Romantic Weddings

Congrats to you both.

Bali has a couple of companies that can help you.

Bali Weddings International

Bali Paradise Weddings

Bali Weddings

It is possible to organize a Christian priest and do a quickie, then enjoy the romantic nature of Bali. Or even convert to Hindu and have Balinese wedding (only for those who know what they're getting into).

Thanks to both of you for the suggestions! I am in contact now with Bali Weddings International (although their understanding of English seems to be a bit lacking...I'm a little nervous). I'll contact the others today!

I used to work for Bali Weddings International, so if you have any questions, I'm happy to answer. Or email them for price and all paperwork requirements. My favourite locations would be The Sheraton Laguna Nusa Dua, The Padma, The Legian, Four Seasons Sayan and Jimbaran and the Ritz, they are the five star ones, but if you want lower try Kartika Plaza, The Ramada, Puri Raja, The Mandira

Just reading your other post, Bali Weddings International is run by an Australian Lady and the other Wedding Consultants are Australian as well. You might have caught them on a day when they are all out at weddings and the office staff are Balinese.

Thanks for all your help. In the end, I decided to use Romantic Weddings. I fly out tomorrow to Bali and can't wait. Although I still don't know how I'll get my damn dress over there without it wrinkling to hell. I'll report back once about how it all went once I'm back in the States.

How did it go????

It went off without a hitch, Cherie! Thanks for asking. I'm just now getting around to posting the details on my Travel Betty blog. But it was the most beautiful, perfect day. I truly couldn't believe that it was my ceremony.

I had some communication issues with Romantic Weddings before leaving on the trip, but once I arrived and got to meet them in person it was all better. They took care of every detail and I didn't have to stress at all. I wouldn't hesitate to recommend them and I definitely thank Heath for the introduction. And to Nick for his suggestions as well.

Anyone considering holding their wedding in Bali, especially a Balinese Blessing Ceremony, I say go for it!