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Destination Weddings – Tips, Tricks, and Prime Locations

destination wedding tips

As my dearly beloved friends inch closer and closer to becoming engaged with each sickeningly sweet photo of their happiness prominently displayed on Facebook, I have begun pushing for a destination wedding. Perhaps it’s more for selfish reasons, but destination weddings simply kick country club weddings in the bouquet with their superiority.

In honor of cementing a promise my high school chum made me in regards to enjoying a destination wedding – so I enjoy a getaway under the guise of wedding duties – here are some destination wedding tips, trick, and prime locations.

Related: Hotel Secrets, Confessions, and How to Score to Freebies

Keep It Small

The beauty of a destination wedding is that it weeds out the random guests who will simply show up, eat all the cake, drink all the champagne, wear their pants as a cape, and then attach their name to the biggest gift on the table before disappearing without so much as a Thanks for the free food, booze, and cake! Peace out!

The requirement of travel will bring out the loyal and the appreciative guests who will thank you with gifts. Seriously, I would find a unicorn and ride it into the reception proclaiming, “I WIN WEDDING GIFT WARS!” Bottom line – keeping the affair smaller means concentrated fun and it will be easier on the budget.

Two Words…er..One Hyphenated Word: All-Inclusive

Ok, so all-inclusive resorts can come with a bad rap, but when you find a legit and top level resort, things that dreams are made of become a reality. Gourmet meals, room service, spas, and an endless supplies of drinks (I lovingly call it the Kennedy Package – my hand is never without a beverage of the adult nature) will make your wedding day feel like a Diddy party.

For some of the best all-inclusive wedding resorts in the United States, check out Bolongo Bay Beach Resort in St. Thomas, Club Med Sandpiper Bay in Port St. Lucie located in sunny Florida, Divi Carina Bay All-Inclusive Beach Resort & Casino in St. Croix, or Travaasa Hana in history-rich Maui.

Related: Kate Middleton and Prince William’s Favorite Vacation Spots and Hotels

Timing Is Everything

As with any outdoor or destination wedding, when you have the event is vital. If you are trying to plan a Caribbean dream in September, you’re asking for a hurricane to literally rip your wedding a day new one. Research your chosen destination’s “shoulder season” to enjoy thinner crowds, cheaper prices, and favorable weather. Also, take into consideration the fact that planning from afar will take time. Make sure you give yourself and your guests plenty of time to make arrangements.

Make Sure It’s Legal

Some destinations have a “residency requirement” that could present legal hoops for you to jump through. Make sure you check into these laws, especially if your location is in England or any other foreign land.

Are you planning a destination wedding? What are your favorite tips or lessons you learned along the way? Share your thoughts in the comment section below.