Destination Weddings
Getting married on the tropical beaches of Maui always seemed like a dream, and nothing more. Even before I had visited the island, I knew it was where I wanted to get married. It wasn’t until my feet touched the warm salt water and the soft sand pressed between my toes that I realized it was actually happening — a dream come true!
A tropical atmosphere can be more personal and meaningful to a couple than a traditional wedding. The chaos in planning, and on the day itself, can diminish the true significance of a wedding. Thousands of dollars are spent for a single day, and it can easily become overwhelming. The peace and serenity of a small beach wedding is everything a bride could ask for.
Tropical places all over the world have become famous for romantic beach weddings. Although people travel to far off places, locations that are nearer are becoming increasingly popular. Here are some of the most popular (and reasonable) destination wedding locations.
Hawaii - There are several islands to choose from, but three stand out: Maui, Kauai and the Big Island. Temperature changes of about 10 degrees all year create options for an outdoor wedding, summer, fall, winter and spring. Another benefit: the tropical feel without traveling out of the country. Maui, the romantic island, is excellent for a close-knit and romantic feel. Kauai, the garden island, offers tropical greens to surround your ceremony with few city distractions. The Big Island offers unique lava rock beaches and a great balance of city and island retreat vibe.
The Bahamas - A collection of over 700 islands, this paradise offers options to fulfill any taste. Some are more lively, filled with nightlife; others more serene and peaceful. Newlyweds can even rent their own private island for the perfect honeymoon. Once you pick the ceremony you want, find the island that best fits. The plane ride from Florida is just over a half-hour.
The Florida Keys - For a Caribbean feel at a more affordable price, this chain of islands is perfect. The old-Florida feel with nature, white beaches and blue water surround you. Popular wedding options in the Keys: aboard a boat of your choosing; sharing vows with dolphins; or getting married underwater.
Los Cabos, Mexico - A beautiful paradise with white sandy beaches, and with the more unique options. Cabo San Lucas offers a lively nature to a relaxed beach wedding. A private boat delivers to intimate settings. Arrive to the ceremony on horseback. In the right season, the releasing of baby sea turtles into the ocean can be incorporated into your ceremony. For something new and innovative, check out Los Cabos.
Why have a destination wedding?
Destination weddings are becoming popular because planning is more simple and easier than traditional weddings. Coming from a bride with both a destination and a domestic wedding, I can tell you the destination wedding was a breeze. Another added bonus is not having to plan the extra expense for a honeymoon. Say goodbye to all your family and friends after the wedding, and stay to relax in paradise for the week. A destination wedding also creates a special place for celebrating wedding anniversaries for years to come.
Planning tips
Go with a wedding package. Planning from afar is not easy. Do your research. I found small all-inclusive packages on the island of Maui for under $200, and a bit higher prices for large parties with more included. Set a baseline of what you need, and contact a planner.
Know that you cannot be overly in control. Your wedding day will be magical and absolutely perfect, but you need to know your limitations. Your planner will advise what is best, and what will not work. Trust your planner.
Ask questions. These companies do this for a living. My wedding planner was also our minister, and adapted the ceremony to our needs. They’re experts. Listen, ask questions, and you’ll appreciate the flawless wedding planned from their recommendations.
Keep things affordable
A paradise wedding is surprisingly affordable. When not worried about catering for hundreds of people, the stress dissipates. Know your budget and stick to it. I removed items offered I knew I could take care of later. Wedding packages are a must, but additions aren’t necessary. You can have paradise on a budget and still have memories of a lifetime. Personalize and communicate with your planner to ensure you are getting what you need and nothing more.
Recognize guests who cannot attend
My husband and I decided to get married on the island of Maui for sentimental reasons. Many couples have cherished memories of these tropical islands to incorporate into their wedding ceremony. For us, we chose Maui because of my dad. Three years ago, my dad and I made a promise that we were going to go to Hawaii for the first time. The entire family had never been, and it was time for a family vacation. Weeks later, I lost my dad suddenly. Living up to my end of the promise, a few months later, we took his ashes to the island of Maui so he could rest in paradise forever. My husband and I decided to make our dreams a reality and got married on the island so that my father could still give me away on my wedding day. Weddings are important landmarks for years to come with a promise of forever.
The inconvenience of travel won’t allow everyone to attend; however, they can still participate. Webcams can bring family together from all over the world. Bring your laptop, and you can easily set up streaming video of your ceremony to those at home, so that they can share the day with you. Depending on location, friends and family can be there in spirit. Print canvas photos of them to have at the ceremony. In Hawaii, place leis on the beach around the photos, or in place of where they would stand for the ceremony. Ask your planner for ideas to fill in the gaps.
Destination weddings are not unrealistic. Do your research, and check out your options. A lot of couples I have spoken with assume it isn’t possible and give up on the idea of getting married in paradise. Don’t let this be a factor in your decision. With the increase in couples tackling wedding planning and funding on their own, it is important to invest in something you can be proud of. With the affordability, convenience and luxury of a wedding in paradise, throw away the fear, and say “I do” to your dream destination wedding.
