If you’re getting married or know someone else who is, then you’re probably already aware of the fact that weddings are rather expensive nowadays. Whoever said that a marriage is easy probably didn’t have to sit down and plan his wedding. Even if it is a simple wedding held in a church and is followed by a simple reception and a honeymoon, there is still a lot of planning involved in it. Fortunately, you can now cut those wedding costs to almost half and save on loads of time without the frustration that is normally involved, by hiring a travel agent to plan a dream holiday destination wedding for you.
When weddings are held at holiday destinations, away from the betrothed duo’s hometown, they are known as destination weddings. According to recent survey, destination weddings have rapidly increased in popularity over the last few years. Many such weddings feature the betrothed couple eloping to some exciting and adventurous, far off location. Some prefer to invite close friends and family to join in the celebrations.
There are so many breathtakingly beautiful wedding destinations all over the world to choose from and planning your dream holiday wedding is an exciting experience. The most difficult part of having a destination wedding lies in choosing the perfect location. However, here are 5 of the most sought after marriage destinations:
1. Mexico: Mexico is home to two of the most gorgeous holiday wedding locations. All you romantics who are dreaming of white beaches and crystal clear water for a perfect beach wedding should probably opt for Cancun. On the other hand, Cozumel is just off the Yucatan Peninsula and has some of the world’s best scuba diving spots. With its charming little resorts that are a perfect contrast to the secluded beaches, Cozumel is perfect for those looking to have a tropical wedding.
2. Hawaii: If you’re looking to have a fun-filled wedding then the sunny capital of Hawaii, Oahu should be your choice. With its pristine, aquamarine blue waters and its long, powdery beaches and the rugged mountains, a wedding here would be a rich and rewarding experience. Maui is another beautiful location in which to hold your dream holiday wedding. With its perfect sunny weather and its secluded beaches that guarantee privacy, Maui will make your special day absolutely perfect.
3. Jamaica: Get married amidst the rich culture, easy lifestyle and tropical climate of Jamaica. What could be more beautiful than getting married on a tropical island? With its breathtaking waterfalls and rugged mountaintops and clean beaches, hosting your wedding in Jamaica would be an unforgettable experience.
4. Bermuda: A true paradise on earth, Bermuda is considered to be one of the most beautiful islands in the world. Adorned with lush green gardens and exquisite pink sand beaches and unique coral reefs, the hospitality prevalent all over the island is simply amazing. With all the wonderful resorts, hotels and accommodation available on the island, it makes a perfect choice.
5. Las Vegas: Popularly known as the marriage capital of the whole world, Las Vegas is considered to be the most unconventional and exciting of all dream holiday wedding destinations. With almost 150,000 couples getting marriage licenses every year, Las Vegas is the only place on the globe where you can get married by an Elvis impersonator. Being one of the hottest wedding destinations, Las Vegas is where you should go if you want to elope or if you want to have a dream holiday wedding. Despite its ‘not-so-rosy’ reputation, there is more to this city than just casinos. With its new and ultra cool resorts and nightclubs, Las Vegas will definitely provide you with that exciting and adventurous wedding that you are looking for.
Italy is the perfect place for a dream wedding and is becoming a popular choice with destination weddings. The reason for this is simple. The country caters to almost everyone’s tastes. Finding beautiful wedding locations in Italy is not a very difficult thing to do. You will find plenty of options on various websites with detailed descriptions and pictures. If you are hiring wedding planners, they would have a few suggestions as well. However, this article should give you a head start on what you can look forward too.
Options, options and more options…
Beauty and more beauty is all you will find in Italy – a perfect destination for a wedding. Beautiful wedding locations in Italy are a very common sight. Here are a few of the locations that you might want to consider:
Lake District: As the name suggests, plan your big day in what could possibly be the most relaxing and romantic atmosphere in Italy, on the edge of a lake.
Friuli and Veneto Regions: Venues that are tucked away and intimate is what you will find in this region made up of old towns that still retain their charm, dreamy castles and gorgeous villas.
Tuscany: Ancient towns on the top of hills, enchanting landscapes, mouth watering food and some of the best is wines is what defines this region.
The Italian Riviera: Quaint fishing villages and vineyards dotting a gorgeous coastline define this area. It is the perfect place for an outdoor wedding.
Lazio, Rome and Florence: The beauty of these cities is timeless and that is what ranks them amongst some of the most exhilarating venues for a wedding in Europe.
Amongst other venues are Capri, the Amalfi Coast, Sicily, Sorrento and the Southern regions.
Weddings in Venice
Venice is considered the most romantic city in the world. With the unique experiences and its atmosphere of magic, who wouldn’t want to get married here? Venues for weddings in Venice are easily available. Civil ceremonies take place at the Palazzo Cavalli which dates back to the 17th century, while blessings can take place at the Anglican chapel. Lovely Venetian restaurants, villas and luxury 5 star hotels are available for receptions.
A destination wedding is a time of romance, adventure, and excitement. The destination wedding is also a time filled with a lot of travel, plans, and group coordination and can be quite a stressful time for not only the bride and groom, but for the bridal party as well. While the stress of travel, especially with a group, can take its toll, it should not have to be during a wedding celebration.
The destination wedding can take place in many locations such as the beach, another country or even Las Vegas. Although it can be a stressful time preparing to depart on this trip, it is usually well worth it since it also serves as a vacation at the same time. This provides much time for relaxation after the wedding ceremony.
Destination weddings require special wedding favors. It is important to remember that these wedding favors do not need to be elaborate or expensive, but should be more thoughtful and unique than anything else. These small tokens of appreciation to your wedding guests should convey just how thankful you, the bride and groom, are that they made the extra effort to make it to your wedding.
Favors for the Tropical Wedding
Many destination weddings are set in tropical locations. If your wedding happens to be one set on the beach or on the islands, your wedding favors should reflect this. Consider the location of the wedding and which gifts would be the best choice. A small wedding favor for a tropical wedding might be some sunscreen or sunglasses for each guest. Another good wedding favor for a tropical wedding might be a set of beach towels. If you want to really spoil your guests, you may think about getting a beach tote for each of them and fill it with a beach towel and other fun beach accessories.
Favors for the Ski Resort Wedding
If your destination wedding is taking place at a ski resort, you know that you and your guests are in for a great time. One idea for a wedding favors is give them something that can help them stay warm and enjoy their time in the cold. A tote bag is always a good alternative to a plastic shopping bag, so choose something that your friends and family are likely to use. Then fill the bag with some warm fleece gloves, a matching scarf, and a ski hat. Be sure to include some sunscreen (the sun reflects off the snow and can cause sunburn a lot faster than you think!)
Favors for the Vegas Wedding
If you and your fiancé are tying the knot in Las Vegas, then the wedding favors you hand out should be chosen accordingly. Las Vegas is full of fun, excitement, and adventure, so share it with your wedding guests. Use one of those buckets used at the casinos to hold chips and fill it with Vegas-related products. You might consider providing some chips to your guests for the slots, a deck of cards, and perhaps even a book about betting.
Travel Gear
It is important to keep in mind that all of the guests as well as the bride and groom must travel to attend a destination wedding. The very idea behind a destination wedding is to hold the festivities in a location other than where the bride and groom, or their families currently reside. Traveling may be harder for some people than others and some may have financial limitations while others may just not enjoy the entire process. This is why you may consider providing your wedding guests with bags that are filled with travel products. This can help them feel more comfortable while traveling.
Purchase a gift bag, or tote, and fill it with soft socks, aspirin, vitamins, magazines, healthy snacks, and other travel essentials. Think about each guest (since destination weddings usually have a smaller guest list) and include things that may interest that particular person on the plane trip. Anything that helps the airport seem a little homier will be welcomed.
Day Trips
Destination weddings take place in fun, and sometimes exotic, locations. A destination wedding would not be one without the “destination” being a place worth visiting. So why not consider treating your wedding guests on a trip to see the local sights. It is the perfect way to treat them to a special day and have some extra time with your nearest and dearest. Your wedding guests should definitely appreciate the effort, especially since they have spent the money on travel, lodging, and may have even taken off work to share in your celebration.
Destination weddings are a lot of work, but not every aspect has to be stressful. Choose the wedding favors based on where your wedding is taking place. Just remember that the wedding favors should be simple, unique, and thought out. You do not have to spend a lot of money as long as you put some effort into it. If you prefer to be extravagant, go ahead – your guests will appreciate the gesture.