Frequently Asked Questions
1. How do I plan a destination wedding at Edwards Collection?
Planning your wedding with us is seamless. Once you enquire, our dedicated wedding coordinator will guide you through venue selection, ceremony styling, menu planning, décor, supplier recommendations and timeline creation. We assist you from the initial concept to the final day, ensuring an effortless, beautifully curated experience.
2. What types of ceremonies can I choose from for my wedding?
We offer a range of ceremony styles including Western symbolic ceremonies, traditional Sri Lankan blessings, intimate elopements, beachfront ceremonies and bespoke themed celebrations. All elements can be customised to reflect your personal style and cultural preferences.
3. What wedding venues are available at your villas?
Each Edwards Collection villa offers a unique setting:
• The Frangipani Tree – Thalpe: Beachfront lawns, oceanfront suites.
• The Sandals – Balapitiya: Coastal gardens, seaside deck.
• Villla Mayurana – Ahangama: Cinnamon plantation ambience, tranquil courtyards.
• Thambili House – Galle Fort: Heritage courtyard, rooftop terrace.
• The Hermitage – Kandy: Lakefront decks, forest pavilion.
• The Far Pavilion – Pinnawala: Hill-country gardens, lakeside lawns.
• Hill Rise Villa – Nuwara Eliya: Lakeside garden, misty highland backdrops.
4. Can I stay at one Edwards Collection villa and get married at another?
Yes, absolutely. Many couples choose to stay at one villa and host their ceremony at another to make use of different styles and landscapes. We are happy to arrange all logistics between villas for a smooth transition.
5. Will our destination wedding be legal in the country we reside in?
Yes. Sri Lankan civil weddings are internationally recognised. Once your marriage is registered in Sri Lanka, your marriage certificate can be submitted for legalization in your home country. We will guide you through the required documentation and processes.
6. What is the best way to travel with a wedding dress?
We recommend carrying your dress in a garment bag as hand luggage. Most airlines will accommodate it in the overhead compartment or assist in storing it safely. Avoid checking the dress in your suitcase to prevent creasing or damage.
7. Is there a tuxedo rental service available in Sri Lanka?
Yes, tuxedo and suit rentals are available through trusted bridal and menswear boutiques in Colombo and Galle. We can arrange fittings or coordinate with suppliers on your behalf
8. What wedding cake flavours are available?
We offer a range of premium flavours including classic vanilla, chocolate truffle, red velvet, lemon, coconut, passionfruit, carrot cake, and traditional Sri Lankan rich cake. Custom flavours and multi-tier cakes can also be arranged.
9. When will we receive our marriage certificate?
The initial English marriage certificate is usually ready within 3–5 working days after the ceremony. The fully authenticated and certified version (for international use) takes approximately 3–4 weeks. We can also arrange secure international shipping if needed.
10. important information
Yes, we provide airport transfers upon request.
11. Legal Requirements
1. Arrive & meet registrar
Be in Sri Lanka 9 days before giving notice/meeting the registrar.
2. Give Notice of Marriage
The registrar records your details; a waiting period may apply depending on the locality.
3. Ceremony & certificate (Sinhala)
You’ll receive a Sinhala marriage certificate first. For overseas use, it needs English translation (often 3–7 working days).
4. Attestation / legalisation
Take (or have us take) the Sinhala original + English translation to the Ministry of Foreign Affairs – Consular Affairs for attestation.
5. Your embassy/consulate verification
After MFA attestation, most couples must have documents verified by their own embassy/consulate in Colombo (fees vary by country).
6. Courier to you
We’ll courier the attested set to your preferred address.
Timelines & fees (what’s typical)
• English translation: usually within 7 working days after the Sinhala certificate is issued.
• Attestation & embassy verification: depends on appointment availability and your embassy’s processing times/fees.
Edwards Collection support
• Pre-arrival checklist & document review
• Registrar appointment scheduling and marriage-notice paperwork
• Notarized by a local notary public/attorney.
• Provision of two legally eligible witnesses (18+, ID verified), on request.
• Certified translations, MFA attestation and embassy/consulate verification coordination.
• Courier of final documents worldwide
LEGAL REQUIREMENTS
1. Passport photo page copies for both partners.
2. Birth certificates (originals/certified copies).
3. Proof you’re free to marry (varies by nationality):
- A sworn affidavit/confirmation of unmarried status or equivalent certificate, prepared per your country’s rules and acceptable to Sri Lankan authorities.
- If divorced: Decree absolute + affidavit of marital status. If widowed: previous marriage certificate + spouse’s death certificate. If name changed/adopted: legal proof/adoption certificate. (Certification/legalisation may be required by your Sri Lankan mission.)
- Local contact details and parents’ names/occupations for the notice form.
If any document is not in English, please provide the original plus a certified English translation by a sworn/official translator and ensure copies are attested by a Sri Lankan Notary Public (Attorney-at-Law or as directed by your embassy/mission).
