A destination wedding can be a solution to a very common problem
Dear Joy, I recently saw a bridal fashion show on a popular morning news show. The fashion show commentator talked about gowns that would be appropriate for different “destination weddings.’ It wasn’t until I saw the fashion show did it occur to me that a destination wedding might be a good idea for my family. Do you feel that a destination wedding works well, and how do you arrange one? Lynn
Dear Lynn,
Destination weddings have become a popular option when the bride, groom, and relatives are scattered throughout the country.
A destination wedding takes place at a vacation location. Disney World, Las Vegas, and the Hawaiian Islands are the most popular destination wedding locations. Large resorts at popular vacation spots have full-time staffs that handle all the arrangements.
A destination wedding can be a solution to a very common problem when dealing with location. A bride may live 1,000 miles away from her parents, and her groom may live 500 miles from his parents. Their siblings may live in different states, too. Where should they be married? Why not pick a neutral, fun and romantic location? Not everyone will be able to attend; however, those who do truly want to be there.
Activities are easily planned at many resorts. Imagine having a rehearsal dinner at the beach. A game of volleyball, a sandcastle competition, and picnic food would create wonderful memories and photographs.
Does the resort have a golf course? You could host a golf luncheon the day before your ceremony. Many resorts have dinner shows guests can attend. At a resort location, the possibilities for entertaining your guests are endless.
The destination wedding gives all participants the opportunity to get to know each other in a fun and relaxed atmosphere. Furthermore, if guests have to travel and use vacation time to attend a wedding, a destination wedding is the perfect solution.
Guests are responsible for their own lodging and travel expenses. The bridal couple or the hosts are responsible for the cost of entertaining their guests at invited functions, such as the rehearsal dinner, golf luncheon, and the wedding reception.
Consult with a travel agent about your destination choices. Consider the time of year; travel expense, weather and activities as you search for that perfect wedding locale. Once you select the location, confer with the resort or hotel staff. A staff bridal consultant will address all of your needs, such as music, floral arrangements, photography, food, liquor, ceremony site and officiant.
Your travel agent or bridal consultant can help you with the legal requirements for marrying in your destination locale. Find out the waiting period, residency requirements, and necessary paperwork you need to bring with you, such as birth certificates, identification, blood test reports, and parental consent, if applicable.
Finally, if your family is on a tight budget, be considerate of their financial limitations. You do not want to be celebrating alone!
Joy’s Bridal Tip: As you rush off to your honeymoon, you won’t have time to change your last name on your passport identification or driver’s license. Purchase your airline tickets in your maiden name to avoid confusion when airport personnel and security scrutinize identification before your flight.
K. Joy Schaeffer is a bridal consultant. You can e-mail her your bridal questions at bridejoy@yahoo.com.