A destination wedding is a wedding that takes place in a location that is not home to either the bride or the groom or their families. Couples may choose a location that they have always wanted to visit for the location of their destination wedding. The couple may also opt to have their wedding in the location of their honeymoon so that there honeymoon will start immediately after the wedding.
There are certain advantages and disadvantages to having a destination wedding. One of the most defining advantages is the ability to have a wedding in a beautiful and exotic location. Another advantage to a destination wedding is that if you choose to honeymoon in the same location you will first of all already be at your honeymoon location at the conclusion of the wedding and furthermore you will likely receive a discount on your honeymoon stay because you have already had your wedding at the location. One of the distinct disadvantages of a destination wedding is that the planning process can be difficult and that you are often unable to fully enjoy the planning process.
One of the truly beautiful things about living in the United States is that we have vacation spots nearly everywhere. By planning your destination wedding in a place that is relatively close to home, you can save considerably on airfare or other travel arrangements. Do you live on the East Coast? Make Orlando, Florida your destination and enjoy your honeymoon with Mickey Mouse. Set your sights on the Big Apple and enjoy a destination wedding in the City that Never Sleeps. Maybe you’re in the Midwest? If so a destination wedding in Chicago may have just the right romantic touch for you. You could also consider heading south to Texas to visit the Alamo. Live in the Southwest or Northwest? Then Las Vegas and Los Angeles are mere hours away by plane. The point is that your destination wedding doesn’t have to be held in London, Paris, or Munich to be an event you will remember fondly and cherish forever.
If you are marrying outside of the U.S., be sure to contact the country’s embassy for legal requirements. If you are not comfortable dealing with embassies, contact local hotels for information. Wedding professionals at your destination hotel should be able to provide you with valuable information. Many popular destination wedding locations offer on site wedding coordinators armed with a lot of great information.
Keep in mind that in very remote areas, you might not be able to find anyone to provide the wedding services you desire. If you’re planning to invite guests, keep their needs and interests in mind, too.
A destination wedding could mean savings since your wedding ceremony and your honeymoon can be at the same destination.