Tips on How to Plan a Wedding in a Unique Location

by Jessica Howell

The span of a life is dotted with travel pinpoints here and there, marking celebratory trips, inspirational journeys and in general, some of the most memorable moments a person will likely hold. So many people rely on travel to create memories that last a lifetime, so why not consider planning a little bit of travel in celebration of the Big Day? And we’re not talking about a honeymoon – we’re talking about a destination wedding.

Wedding Bliss on the Beach

That’s right, make it a vacation for your guests too. According to DestinationWeddings.com one in six couples across the U.S. has a destination wedding - many of them tapping internet resources for locations, ideas and advice. In fact, The Knot recently voted 2007’s hottest destination for weddings as Italy, “from the picturesque cliffs of Portofino to the streaming canals of Venice and the magnificent architecture of Florence.”

While destination weddings can be a perfect escape from the ordinary, there’s an even bigger draw: today, a bride and groom can pay less to have a destination wedding than a traditional one, according to Quentin Carmichael, President of DestinationWeddings.com.

But wait right there, before you hop online, Carmichael offers some planning tips that every bride should know beforehand:

• Don’t just rely on the internet. Work with a real person, a certified destination wedding specialist who will understand and cater to your preferences.

• Take the time. The best resorts book far out; anticipate at least nine months of planning.

• Benefit from insider knowledge. Specialists with prior experience in your location can reveal the best and worst local vendors.

• Know the locale’s marriage requirements. Some countries require one month residency.

• Minimize travel stress and risk. Tap a planning provider with flight and hotel package negotiation leverage, as well as 24-hour emergency service.

• Join an online bridal forum. Gain insight from others about their experience.

• Make it easy for guests to attend. Choose a coordinator with a payment plan option.

• Stay in touch. Create, update and share with guests a custom wedding website.

• Know Plan B. Ask about ceremony locations for both perfect and inclement weather conditions.

• Maximize the experience. Couples can have a combined wedding/honeymoon. Give guests the opportunity to extend for a vacation.

Some excellent resources for destination weddings follow:

DestinationWeddings.com

The Knot Destination Wedding Guide

Brides.com Destination Wedding Guide