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.
Catering your wedding on the cheap- or at least cheaper than full bore retail is an art in itself. Actually large scale weddings are relatively new on the scene. With smaller family units a wedding so to speak is “instant family”
The average cost an American wedding is now estimated at $ 28,000. Remember that this is the average figure and as such includes small events and elopements on the final calculation. Not included and in addition and on top of the average $ 28,000 wedding costs are the costs and fees for the wedding and engagement rings, the bridal consultant and / or wedding planner. Lastly the essential “honeymoon” vacation is in addition and on top of all of this.
How can one save costs and charges for their wedding without appearing to be too much of a cheapskate? After all your wedding day is said to be “The Most Important Day in Your Life”, to be remembered long after. Especially brides will be scolded if they are brave enough to put the wedding day event in full perspective that “I thought like you and then on that day I realized that it was “My Day in the Sun”. And all of those people were there for me.” “Name of Bride to be – Not a day goes by without me thinking and remembering my wedding day, fondly”. There sure is a lot of less than subtle pressure on both the new bride and groom to be.
What can be done to reduce the costs of the wedding meal and meals?
First of all it all comes down to supply and demand. Many weddings are held in preference in the spring. Caterers are busy during this peak time. If the time of year is not crucial an off peak time wedding can afford better negotiating in dealing with caterers and florists. It is not unlike shopping for a car at the end of the month where the car dealer is more than amenable to make a deal better than otherwise in an effort to meet his production quota. If possible host your wedding in an off peak wedding period.
Next in terms of catering look at the size of your wedding party. If the party is smaller then perhaps the wedding reception and meal can be held in a restaurant.
Restaurants often have “party “or large “meeting rooms:” for this purpose and will more than generously accommodate you for a booking if you ask. It’s found guaranteed business for a restaurant to pay its bills and they will more than gladly book it. If your meal is held offsite another possibility is have the meal catered by restaurant as well.
If the meal is larger often caterers will give discounts (if asked) for larger events.
There costs are less – one event rather than many, less transportation costs than to a number of small events. Economies of scale in terms of purchases of supplies and cooking as well are entailed. If Wal-Mart can lean on their suppliers for volume discounts why can’t you.
Extras such as extra serving personnel and place settings can be reduced or even eliminated. If possible have the food or supplies (such as chairs and tables) picked up by yourself, a friend or agent (who is dependable)… You may well find that by renting a van at weekend rates and hiring a reliable neighbor for the task may save you money instead of having the caterer plus other suppliers all charge you delivery, setup and pickup fees. In addition you will reduce the chance of late fees of late returned items as the deliveries and pick ups are at your control.
Watch out for extra costs that may be “slid in”. You cannot blame the catering companies and hotels if they don’t tell you of cost saving means if it is not in their favor.
After all this is their livelihood. For example the costs of beverages can be quite a major hit in the pocket book of the wedding reception, Inquire as to the liquor laws of your state and the rules of the hotel, You may find that you are able to purchase and serve your own wines and liquor at the reception as long as you satisfy the local liquor and hospitality regulations. This often entails obtaining a permit from the local liquor control or restaurant authorities. These rules vary from locale to locale.
With the correct liquor or wine permit you may be able to purchase your wine or liquor less expensively, Again it all depends on the rules of the hotel, hall or restaurant.
You may be charged the cost of bartenders and serving personnel, you may be charged nothing. Sometimes the procedure is to charge a “corkage fee”. All in all it’s a matter of discussion and negotiation; it all comes down to an evaluation of what is the best overall deal for you.
A wedding is a major milestone and event in most people’s lives. It is also a major purchase in their life. As with any purchase it never hurts to plan ahead and comparison shop. You would plan and shop for a car purchase of $ 28,000. Why not for your wedding?