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Location, Location, Location...
Choosing the right place for your wedding should be first on your
"to do" list. This day should be perfect from start to
finish - that is why finding the right place should be first on your
'to do' list. The place where you and your fiancee will exchange
vows will set the mood for your whole wedding celebration.
Whether you choose to have your first kiss as a married couple on the
beach, or dancing in a ballroom like Cinderella, there are many
beautiful locations throughout the world to choose for a destination
wedding.
One
of the drawbacks of a destination wedding is the expense of flights
and the added expense of accommodations that guests would need to pay
for. Keep in mind that a lot of your guests may decide not to
attend based on these factors. If you have problems with a guest
list that is getting out of control, a destination wedding may be the
answer to your problems.
Helpful
Tip - send invitations early so that your guests will have enough
time to make travel plans
Start
planning early and book ahead. If you book six months ahead you
get better rates on hotels and flights. American Airlines has a
special wedding desk (1-800-545-8193) and can offer a special rate if
you book for ten guests or more at the same time.
Helpful
Tip - Keep in mind that there can be hidden costs such as hotel
taxes and/or exchange rates if you are getting married in a foreign
country.
According
to one recent survey of brides, more than 20% of couples planning a
wedding are choosing a destination wedding. One reason the
destination wedding has become so popular is that combining your
wedding and honeymoon can save money. Destination weddings may also
cost less per guest than having your wedding stateside in an elegant
ballroom. Finally, be sure to ask about complete wedding
packages which are offered by many of the big resorts and cruise
lines. If
possible, hire a wedding coordinator at your location (check
references) and visit if possible beforehand. Sandals
Resorts, for example, have offered a test-drive your honeymoon package
from time to time that allows couples to fly in for a weekend and
"try them out." If a couple decides to book a
honeymoon or wedding and honeymoon package, the cost of the weekend
trip is applied to their honeymoon. Of course, specials like
these are subject to change and may not always be available, but its
worth looking into. Before
you go be sure to check on local marriage license laws and any
paperwork you will need to bring - visa, birth certificate etc.
If you are getting married outside on the beach, have a back-up plan
if the weather is not cooperating. If you plan to marry in the
Caribbean you may want to avoid hurricane season. Most
brides choose an informal style wedding dress for destination weddings
because they are easier to pack and wear. Many designers are
offering bridal gowns made from light, easy to wear fabric like
chiffon and silk crepe that are perfect for an island wedding.
Ask your local bridal salon for additional ideas and on how to pack
your gown for travel. Many of the resorts may have ironing
services or they may be able to recommend a pressing service. If
traveling to Europe, ask for a local tailor shop. The
Groom's Attire For
the groom, a popular option is the all-ivory or all-white
tuxedo. Some of today's hottest tuxedo styles are designed in
non-traditional styles and shades. Whatever
location you choose for your wedding, remember to take time to enjoy
the day!
Helpful
Websites Italy
- www.summerinitaly.com Caribbean
- www.usmarriagelaws.com Europe
- www.european-weddings.com Sandals
Resorts - www.sandals.com New
Zealand - www.purenz.com Greece
- www.helenicaadventures.com Hawaii
- www.hawaii.gov
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