Earlier this year when statistics were released for 2013 weddings, 24% of all US weddings were actually destination weddings. We expect that number to hold consistent or actually increase when the 2014 numbers are in. There are several key reasons that couples opt for Destination Weddings. Here are 3 of the top reasons couples are choosing destination weddings:
- Stress-Free – A destination wedding is virtually stress free when working with the right travel person and pick the right resort for your needs. The resort on-site wedding coordinators know all of the requirements and logistics for your dream destination wedding. They coordinate all of your wedding essentials, such as photographer, cake, minister, etc. You also won’t be bogged down with all of the reception details; these are again handled on site for you. Essentially, you step off the plane, sign papers, and your work is done!
- Family and Friends Drama – There is no need to bust Bridezilla out of her cage for this wedding event! You know how it is with family and well-meaning friends; everyone has their own ideas about your wedding! With a destination wedding, much (and quite often, all!) of this is eliminated. A destination wedding is also the perfect way to limit the guest list! We all know that “crazy” family member or friend that we would love to tactfully find a way not to invite…here is your chance! The wedding is truly “your” wedding, but at the same time, if you choose the right resort, it is the experience of a lifetime for both you and your guests! Your family and friends will have an unforgettable vacation while attending your fantastic event.
- Budget – According to The Knot, in 2013, the average cost of a wedding (excluding the honeymoon) in the US was $29,858. The most expensive place in the US is Manhattan with an average spend of $86,916 and the least expensive is Idaho with an average spend of $16,159. Depending on the destination and size of the destination wedding, not including travel, the cost is mere fractions of these amounts. Most couples spend under $10,000 on their actual wedding for their destination wedding.
There are many popular destinations for Destination Weddings. Overall, the most popular international destination for weddings is Mexico. Jamaica is one of the most popular destinations in the Caribbean for destination weddings; also popular are the Dominican Republic, Puerto Rico, and the US Virgin Islands. Hawaii is the top US destination for destination weddings, and Italy leads the European destinations.
Regardless of the destination chosen, you must completely understand the legal requirements for having a destination wedding. While it is possible to have a legal ceremony, in some places, it is best to have a symbolic ceremony.
Choosing the right resort is the most important component to your wedding.
Some questions to think about are:
- When do you want to get married?
- What kind of wedding experience are you looking for?
- Are you a “toes in the sand” kind of couple?
- Or are you more of a Cliffside with waves below you kind of couple?
- Have you always wanted to be at a waterfall?
- Are you looking for the perfect gardens?
- Do you want a large mega resort or something smaller and more intimate?
- Do you prefer all-inclusive resorts or is that not important to you?
It is also important to think about the number of guests you anticipate and the experience you want your guests to have. Yes, of course the bride and groom are most important, but the guests also deserve consideration in the planning. Will children be on the guest list? Will this be an adult’s only event? You also need to consider your guests budgets and the length of time they can travel when choosing a destination and resort.
As you can see, there are many pieces to this puzzle. My job is to ask the right questions and recommend the best options!
Happy Travels!