Planning a Destination Wedding

If the thought of getting married on top of a snowy mountain or in an exotic location leaves you smiling, it may be time to consider forgoing the traditional church ceremony in favor of a destination wedding. Surprisingly affordable in many cases, getting married in a stunning locale can accommodate just the couple or the soon-to-be newlyweds and a group of close friends and family.

Choosing the Perfect Spot for Your Wedding

Whether you and your fiancée are thinking of flying to Vegas to take your vows under the neon lights or you are looking for beach wedding packages that include photography, flowers and other components, finding a place that reflects your personality is important when selecting a spot for your destination wedding.
Some couples are also concerned with the cost of a destination wedding; while this can be an issue for those who have to travel a great distance to reach the spot that they prefer for their wedding, alternatives may be available. For instance, Midwestern couples on a tight budget who want to get married at the beach may opt to consider the Great Lakes Region rather than traveling to an oceanfront city. Couples struggling to agree on a location may also want to consider combining their desires; for example, if the groom wants to get married in Vegas and his partner prefers the beach, consider a wedding in Ocean City to perfectly combine the two ideas.

Guests and Destination Wedding Costs

While couples may actually save money on destination weddings over the traditional wedding-reception-honeymoon model, costs can quickly climb for guests. Typically the couple or their parents cover the cost of an airport shuttle, a special activity, such as a tour of the city, ground transportation to the wedding location and hotel rooms for wedding attendants. Guests should plan to pay for hotels, travel and related expenses; however, special guests with limited financial resources, such as a beloved grandmother, may be an exception the conventional customs surrounding who pays for what when attending a destination wedding.

Making it Your Own

If you and your future spouse are planning your wedding day in a specific location, it can be easy to overlook important customs or family traditions during the hectic planning and travel periods. Make your wedding day unforgettable by adding those special touches that are often neglected by couples marrying away from home.