A Destination Wedding can be a fun, memorable experience as an alternative to a traditional wedding.  Imagine you, your loved one, your family and closest friends together in a tropical paradise celebrating your wedding - how great is that!  Destination Weddings are a growing trend, accounting for nearly 1/4 of all weddings and the trend will stay hot as more and more couples find out how much fun, stress-free and economical a Destination Wedding can be.

  Now-a-days most families are spread out across the country so travel to a wedding is a necessity - why not turn that travel into a tropical getaway for them?  Since the guest list for a Destination Wedding is much shorter, costs are lower and there is less "drama" about who to invite.  The proliferation of all-inclusive resorts where everything is included also helps keep costs down (plus, they offer many freebies and upgrades to wedding couples).

  Here are some of the most popular and romantic resort chains that specialize in Destination Weddings:

COUPLES RESORTS                           

  Couples Resorts are all-inclusive, adults only properties. There are four on the island of Jamaica, two in Ocho Rios, two in Negril and each has their own distinct "vibe" that stays true to Caribbean culture.  Each resort offers a complimentary wedding package and several other packages that can be customized for every style and budget.  Couples provides a wedding planner to make all the arrangements and each resort has a state of the art spa to help you get ready for the big day. 

SANDALS RESORTS             

  Often considered the quintessential resorts for romance, Sandals has seven properties in Jamaica, two in the Bahamas, three in St Lucia and one in Antigua.  Cleverly entitled, "WeddingMoons", Sandals gives you an easy process for planning your wedding and honeymoon; they offer a free wedding package and offer additional touches to customize your wedding.  Martha Stewart has partnered with Sandals and has created six elegant wedding themes available only through Sandals.

PALACE RESORTS           

  Palace has eleven 5-star, all inclusive resorts in Mexico and unlike Sandals and Couples, almost every Palace Resort is family friendly so it is an ideal option for a Destination Wedding where guests will be bringing their kids.  Palace has teamed up with celebrity designer Colin Cowie to create eight different wedding packages that are available at all eleven resorts.  Palace offers excellent wedding group benefits too - the more rooms you book, the more benefits you qualify for (comp nights, resort credits, private cocktail functions, etc...)

KARISMA HOTELS & RESORTS     

  Karisma owns eight stunning resorts in Mexico's Riviera Maya, four are El Dorado Spa Resorts (adults only), four are Azul Hotels (for the entire family).  Karisma properties have several ceremony sites including beach, a gazebo, a beachfront chapel and even a private roof-top deck with incredible ocean views.  A comp wedding package is offered with available upgrades and, of course, there is an on-site wedding coordinator.  Karisma is known as "gourmet inclusive" and the food is excellent and the liquor top shelf.

  This article is not to say that there are not plenty of other properties that will be an incredible Destination Wedding location, but these four will certainly create a memorable experience for you.

For more information on Destination Weddings & Honeymoons and to connect with your personal "Romance Travel Specialist", please visit www.allabouthoneymoons.com

  A Destination Wedding can be a viable alternative to a "traditional wedding" for every personality, from luxury travelers to "beach bums", and they are dramatically increasing in number.  Of the 2.4 million weddings that take place in a year, nearly a quarter of them are Destination Weddings.

  Certainly a major consideration is finance.  A traditional wedding costs about $19,300 on average and a Destination Wedding can be dramatically cheaper (assuming, of course, you don't pay all of your guest's travel costs).  A wedding at an "all-inclusive" resort (food and drink provided) can offer significant savings.  Many resorts offer additional perks such as a free wedding ceremony, group discount packages, room upgrades and free "extras" like a couples massage or a private candlelight dinner on the beach to the bride and groom.  Another plus is that you don't have to travel for your honeymoon, you're already there!

  A Destination Wedding is a vacation for your friends and family.  These days families tend to be scattered across the country, so why not turn the travel necessary to attend a traditional wedding into a tropical getaway.  Resorts offer plenty of activities to keep your guests entertained - you don't have to be the "tour guide".

  A Destination Wedding eliminates much of the "drama" associated with a wedding.  Generally the guest list is only family and close friends - you don't have the "political invites" like when your future mother-in-law insists on you inviting all 10 of her second cousins!  Many couples have a reception at home (after the wedding trip) to accomodate those that don't make the trip.

  To guarantee a "stress-free" experience, planning should start 10 to 15 months in advance.  Early planning allows you to take advantage of better availability (air seats and rooms) and early booking savings.  Usually you can make payments over time to further aid in budgeting.  A good Destination Wedding planner (aka "All About Honeymoons") can not only eliminate financial stress but will provide you with things like a list of all the necessary legal requirements so they can be taken care of well in advance.  That way, all you have to worry about is enjoying your special day!

For more information on Destination Weddings and Honeymoons, please visit "www.allabouthoneymoons.com.

  Of the one million plus weddings in the United States this year, nearly 25% of them will be Destination Weddings and beach weddings make up a lot of them.  A beach wedding allows the bride and groom to save money and provides their guests with a "mini-vacation".

  If a beach destination wedding sounds good to you, take a look at these tips that can give you some ideas on how to make the experience even better:

* Go All Inclusive  All-Inclusives cut down stress because there is no need to carry any money around - everything on the resort is already included!  Not only are All-Inclusives a better value for your guests, most have wedding packages and an on-site wedding coordinator.

* Choose the Backdrop  Decide on the wedding location - beach, gazebo, ballroom, chapel, etc... Each resort will have different options.

* Start Planning NOW  If you want guests to attend your Destination Wedding, Plan Early!.  Plan according to the size of your group and consider things like how easily can the resort accomodate your party, if you want guests to be there for as long as you will be, or even if you want the guests to stay at a different resort.  Potential guests will need to know well in advance so they can attend to their own personal details and agendas.

* Know the Local Laws Be sure to check on local regulations for any pertinent requirements for marriage like required length of stay, blood test, witnesses, required paperwork, etc...  Many couples actually get married at home before they go and have a symbolic ceremony at the destination.

* Wedding Services Does the resort allow external vendors (i.e., photographer, florist, etc...).  Many resorts have strict guidlines - you will need to decide if you are happy with the services they offer.

* Keep Your Name - for now  If you plan to change your name, wait until after the trip.  Make sure airplane tickets and land reservations are made in your pre-married (passport) name.

* Keep it Simple  Don't overthink the decorations...after, you are on a beach and that is more than enough for a beautiful backdrop.

 * Group Activities Plan a couple for your guests, but not too many.  They will enjoy all getting together, but let them relax and enjoy their vacation alone too.

  Most of all, have fun!  Even if some little things go wrong, it doesn't really matter - Relax and Laugh!!

For more information on Destination Weddings and Honeymoons, please visit www.allabouthoneymoons.com

Perhaps the most important thing to consider when planning your Destination Wedding is choosing the "right" destination and accordingly, choosing the "right" property.  Some considerations you will want to think about:

  Face it, the bride's wishes are the TOP priority.  One bride may want a large, "busy" resort so her guests can spread out and have plenty to do while she can have some "alone time" while another bride may want a small, intimate resort with a quiet atmosphere where she can walk out of her room and find her guests within minutes.  There is also the question of how well guests will integrate with one another.  For example, you may not want a tiny resort if you have a set of parents that haven't spoken in years.

  One should also consider where friends and family will be coming from.  If most of the guests are originating in the western US, places like Puerto Vallarta and Los Cabos are relatively easy to get to.  From the east coast, places like the Bahamas or the Dominican Republic may be the way to go.  The Riviera Maya, Mexico is a good "middle ground" with good air service from all over the US and a wide range of resorts, pricing options and activities.

For more information on Destination Weddings and Honeymoons, please visit "www.allabouthoneymoons.com"

  Located twenty miles from the town of Saratoga, Wyoming, the Lodge & Spa at Brush Creek Ranch is 75 minutes from Laramie, WY and about three and a half hours from Denver.  A new and "all-inclusive" boutique resort, Brush Creek Ranch may be just the place for a "different" Destination Wedding.

  In the Medicine Bow Natural Forest in the North Platte River valley, The Lodge and Spa at Brush Creek Ranch is a destination retreat that features a 38,000 square foot lodge, a luxury spa, a collection of private cabins and a vast array of outdoor activities for every season.  Brush Creek Ranch is an "all-inclusive" property and one price covers all lodging, food, premium beverages and activities (including equipment, guide services and instruction).

  The open-air "Chuck Wagon Dining Hall and Western Saloon" offers a juke box, karaoke, billiards, a piano and spacious outdoor decks.  Private blue-ribbon fly fishing is available on eight miles of the North Platte River and there are almost fifty miles of private, maintained trails that are perfect for horseback riding, hiking, biking, Nordic skiing, showshoeing and sleigh rides.  An equestrian center, a Bow & Gun Club and even zip-lining are available.

  With over 15,000 acres of Rocky Mountain splendor, Brush Creek Ranch has numerous picturesque venues including a Wedding & Events Garden.  The location, along with the multitude of activities available for your guests, can make your perfect day an intimate and awe-inspiring occasion in a one-of-a-kind setting!

  Contact an All About Honeymoons "romance travel specialist" and be entered to win a $500 credit with Delta Vacations or United Vacations towards your Destination Wedding travel or honeymoon.  Expires June 30, 2012.

  Delta Vacations and United Vacations offer vacation packages to over 120 destinations worldwide.  From Hawaii to the Caribbean, from Mexico to Europe, from US cities to the South Pacific, the choices are nearly endless.  You'll get the lowest airfares, payment options, bonus miles and the security of dealing with two of the most reputable vacation companies in the business.

MLT Vacations Certificate Terms & Conditions

  Las Vegas is home to some of the most unusual weddings (with Elvis as offiicant, in a helicopter, etc...) but here's one that may be just about the "coolest" one yet (pun intended).  The Minus 5 IceBar (with locations in the Mandalay Bay Hotel and the Monte Carlo hotel) offers the ultimately cool wedding experience.

  Named for its constant frosty temperature of minus five degrees (Celsius, 23 degrees Fahrenheit), everything inside Minus 5 is made of ice; the walls, bar, sculptures, the seats (which are covered with faux fur pelts), even the glasses, which are made from New Zealand Artesian water.  Guests can purchase packages that include insulated jackets (even fur coats!), gloves, boots and hats.  With all the icy conditions its only fitting that Minus 5 be paired with vodka, and they offer an assortment of vodka-infused speciality drinks (with names like Snow Flake, Iceman, Freezing Apple, Iceberg and Avalanche).  A roving photographer takes pictures that can be purchased when you leave (along with other souveniers like an Eskimo Hat).

  Whether you're looking for a traditional wedding or something a little less ordinary, Minus 5 can deliver.  They can carve an alter, pews and even the bridal bouquet from ice for those that wish to exchange vows in a church-like setting (that happens to be 23 degrees).

  The temperature keeps one from staying too long at Minus 5...if you don't finish your drink you can take it with you, but keep in mind that once you leave and head out into the Vegas climate it won't be long before the rest of your cocktail and your souvenir glass will simply be a handful of liquid!

For more information on Destination Weddings and Honeymoons, please visit www.allabouthoneymoons.com

  The islands of the Caribbean are, of course, home to some of the best beaches in the world.  The attraction of the Caribbean is due in part to the lifestyle and some of the friendliest people you'll ever meet.  It is also true that you don't need a passport to visit some of the islands (Puerto Rico, US Virgin Islands), but the main reasons you go to the Caribbean are the beaches and the turquoise blue water.  Here are five of our favorite  Caribbean beaches.

            NEGRIL BEACH

  Located in Negril, Jamaica it is often referred to as Seven Mile Beach even though it is actually only four miles long.  The offshore reef keeps the water very calm so it is the perfect place for off-shore snorkeling.  The white sand and clear blue waters and the diversity of the beach community are simply amazing.

                EMERALD BAY BEACH

    The private home to Sandals Emerald Bay resort in Great Exuma, Bahamas.  This mile long crescent has just about the whitest sand in the Caribbean and is very quiet and untouched.

                     MAGENS BAY BEACH

  Located in St Thomas, US Virgin Islands.  This one mile "U" shaped beach is surrounded by verdant hillsides.  Conde Nast and National Geographic rank it among the top ten beaches in the world. 

                CABLE BEACH

  Located in Nassau on New Providence Island, it is quite probably the most famous beach in the Bahamas.  Cable Beach is two and a half miles long with golden sand and aqua blue water.  The beach is right in the heart of Nassau's hotel district so you have easy access to shopping and restaurants.

               BAVARO BEACH

  Located in Punta Cana, Dominican Republic, Bavaro Beach is also listed as one of the top ten beaches in the world by National Geographic.  About six miles  of white sandy beach with palm trees scattered throughout, Bavaro Beach is protected by an off shore reef so there are no rocks in the water and its perfect for water sports.  You actually feel like you're in a postcard when you're there.

  Consider the Caribbean when deciding on the location of your Destination Wedding or Honeymoon.  After all, its paradise!

For more information on Destination Weddings and Honeymoons, please visit www.allabouthoneymoons.com

  Starwood Hotels (Sheraton, Westin, St Regis) has eleven resorts across four of the Hawaiian Islands.  On Oahu (Honolulu), Maui, Kauai and the Big Island they have the perfect setting for your special day.  When you select one of Starwood's properties as your wedding destination you'll earn bonus "Starwood Points"  based on the wedding contract that can be used for free nights at over 1,000 hotels and resorts worldwide.

  Starwood's Hawaii Properties:

OAHU (Honolulu):

          Sheraton Waikiki

          Royal Hawaiian

          Moana Surfrider

         Sheraton Princess Kaiulani

 MAUI:

         Sheraton Maui

         Westin Maui

         Westin Kaanapali

KAUAI:

         St Regis Princeville

         Westin Princeville

BIG ISLAND:

        Sheraton Keauhau Bay

--------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------

   Each hotel has designed their own wedding packages, here are samples of the wedding packages they offer:

Sheraton Waikiki

 Wedding Ceremonies in Ni‘ihau Room

 Sunset $2,000

Site fee includes the following:

Access to the room for one hour

White chairs for up to 200 guests

Bamboo or lattice wedding arch

White carpet runner

Reception Amenities

 One night complimentary in a relaxing ocean view guest room

Five complimentary valet parking passes

  For wedding receptions with minimum food revenue of $15,000 you will receive:

 One night complimentary in a relaxing ocean view suite

Ten complimentary valet parking passes

For wedding receptions with minimum food revenue of $25,000 you will receive:

 Two nights complimentary in a relaxing ocean view suite

Ten complimentary valet parking passes

ROYAL HAWAIIAN

 The Royal Hawaiian, A Luxury Collection Resort's wedding specialists know the importance of ensuring that your wedding is successful and memorable event. To give you an idea of the endless possibilities that await you, we have prepared a selection of packages that incorporate the core components for your destination wedding; we are, however, eager to tailor the arrangements to meet your budget, your personal preferences and your every dream. 

We are here for you from beginning to end. Please let us know how we can be of assistance as we plan your blissful journey into marriage together. 

Royal Simplicity Package

~ Simple but Memorable ~

Venue: The Garden at Helumoa

Arch: Hotel Arch (no decor included)

Seating: Chairs for up to 50 guests; additional may be provided at an extra cost

Officiant: Non-denominational

Bouquets: Hand tied Bridal Bouquet and a Groom's Boutonniere

Package Price: $1,500.00 plus taxes

Royal Romance Package

~ The Ultimate Royal Treatment ~

Venue: Coconut Grove (Ocean Lawn + $1000, confirmed 14days out)

Arch: Floral Arch with 3 piece floral arrangement

Seating: Chairs for up to 50 guests; additional may be provided at an extra cost

Officiant: Non-denominational Officiant

Bouquets: Hand tied Bridal Bouquet and a Groom's Boutonniere

Musicians: Hawaiian Duo with sound

Wedding Cake: 2 Tiered Wedding Cake

Celebratory Amenity: Bottle of Sparkling Wine

Package Price: $4,300.00 plus taxes

MOANA SURFRIDER

Westin Maui

Intimate - $1,675**

the site

• choose from one of our Lokahi or Gazebo locations
• garden chairs for all guests
• iced lemon water

the ceremony

• performed by a non-denominational officiant
• two fresh flower leis for lei exchange

special package enhancements

• arrangement of marriage license appointment
• event coordination by your personal wedding specialist
• personalized decorative wedding certificate
• moana sunset dinner for two

Please note:

• Available Monday through Friday (not available on weekends or holidays)
• Package pricing is valid for ceremonies scheduled to occur prior to 5:00 PM, only
• No substitutions

St. Regis Princeville

Intimate Moments Package

Celebrate your intimate wedding, vow renewal, or commitment ceremony with us. Say "I do" in the seductive setting of our secluded Secret Cove with the Pacific Ocean as your backdrop or in one of our ceremony venues.

After your ceremony, indulge in one of our signature Romantic Dinners ocean side – a truly private and memorable dining experience for two at a beautiful outdoor setting enhanced by soft candlelight and Hawaiian torchlight.

Your private wait staff will greet you after the ceremony and escort you to your secluded dining area where a chilled bottle of champagne awaits as you begin an evening of uncompromising enchantment. Your exclusive four-course dinner is designed especially for you by one of our chefs and includes wine pairings by our St. Regis Sommelier.

For the rest – our sun, moon, stars and spirit of Aloha are at your disposal.

Package Includes:

• Intimate Seaside/Oceanfront Ceremony location
• Hawaiian Inspired Officiant
• Bridal Bouquet
• Groom's Maile Lei
• Two Hour Photography Session
• Custom 60 minute Couples Massage – customized treatment with your choice of 4 exotic aroma scents designed to promote relaxation, improve circulation and relieve tension to create an overall sense of well-being.
• Romantic Seaside Dinner for 2 in private Cabana
• One bottle of Champagne served with Truffles in room on night of wedding
• Romantic Turndown wedding night with flower petals
• Bride and Groom Specialty Lei
• Steaming of Wedding Dress and Groom's Attire

Personal Wedding Attendant

Sheraton Keauhua Bay

 Start your “new” lives together in Keauhou

  Every day is Valentine's Day in the Caribbean.  The endless beaches, tropical sun and luxury pampering are all about romance, and thats why the Caribbean is an idyllic setting for your destination wedding.

  At Excellence Resorts, all inclusive luxury sets the stage for unforgettable moments.  Celebrate your wedding in a sunset ceremony with a breathtaking Caribbean view.

WEDDING PACKAGES AT EXCELLENCE RESORTS:

Tailor your all inclusive Caribbean wedding by choosing among three deluxe wedding packages.

Excellence Wedding Package

• Services of a judge or minister
• Wedding organization and personalization by our wedding coordinator
• Preferential location of room accommodation in the category reserved
• Preparation and ironing of the wedding dress and groom’s tuxedo/suit
• Complimentary suite for groom the night before the wedding (subject to availability)
• Wedding gazebo overlooking the Caribbean or beach location
• Horse-drawn carriage transporting bride to the wedding gazebo (only at Excellence Punta Cana)
• Bride’s bouquet
• Boutonniere for the groom  
• Wedding cake for 10 guests
• One bottle of sparkling wine
• Special turn down service
• 15% discount on all spa treatments (product purchases not included)
• Honeymoon Package
• Late checkout for bride and groom (based on availability)

Selling price: $850 USD

Additional Fees may apply for non hotel guests.
This package is complimentary when booking an Excellence Club Junior Suite Ocean View category or higher for a minimum of seven nights or with a bridal party of minimum 5 rooms of any category for 7 nights. Guest list should be provided at the time of reservation. Some restrictions/exclusions apply.

Excellence Of Love Wedding Package

• Services of a judge or minister
• Wedding organization and personalization by our wedding coordinator
• Preferential location of room accommodation in the category reserved
• Preparation and ironing of the wedding dress and groom’s tuxedo/suit
• Complimentary suite for the groom the night before the wedding (subject to availability)
• Use of the wedding gazebo overlooking the Caribbean or beach location
• Horse drawn carriage transporting bride to the wedding gazebo (only at Excellence Punta Cana)
• Love Bridal bouquet and boutonniere for the groom
• 4 boutonnieres/corsages  
• Special Silver Wedding Dinner (maximum of 20 people)
• Natural floral centerpiece for dinner table
• Wedding cake for 20 guests
• One bottle of sparkling wine
• Silver Cocktail Hour with hors d’oeuvres for 20 people
• 24 (5 x 7) full-color photos  
• Bridal hairstyling for ceremony
• Make-up application for the bride
• Special Turn down service
• 15% discount on all spa treatments (product purchases not included)
• Honeymoon Package
• Late checkout for bride and groom (subject to availability)

Selling price: $1,500 USD

Additional fees may apply for non hotel guests.
This package may be upgraded from Excellence Wedding Package by covering the applicable difference in selling price. Some restrictions/exclusions apply.

Gold Excellence Wedding Package

• Services of a judge or minister
• Wedding organization and personalization by our wedding coordinator
• Preferential location of the room accommodation in the category reserved
• Preparation and ironing of the wedding dress and groom’s tuxedo/suit
• Complimentary suite for the groom the night before the wedding (subject to availability)
• Use of the wedding gazebo, overlooking the Caribbean or beach location.
• Horse drawn carriage transporting bride to the wedding gazebo (only at Excellence Punta Cana)
• Gold bridal bouquet and boutonniere for the groom
• 4 boutonnieres/corsages
• Special Gold Wedding Dinner (maximum of 20 people)
• Natural Floral centerpiece for dinner table
• Natural Floral table bouquet for ceremony
• Wedding cake for 20 people
• One bottle of sparkling wine
• Gold Private Cocktail Hour with hors d’oeuvres for 20 people
• 24 (6 x 8) full color photos
• Bridal hairstyling for ceremony
• Make-up application for the bride
• Special turn down service
• 15% discount on all spa treatments (product purchases not included)
• Honeymoon Package
• Late checkout for bride and groom (subject to availability)
• Additional decoration for the ceremony
• Caribean or Romantic Music Trio (1 hour)
• Video of ceremony (15 minutes, unedited)
• Love Birds Spa Treatment package (1 per stay per bridal couple)

Selling Price : $2400 USD

Additional fees may apply for non hotel guests. This package may be upgraded from the Excellence Wedding Package by covering the applicable difference in selling price. Some restrictions/exclusions apply.

Restriction:
Package subject to confirmation of availability. Applicable only for double occupancy. Packages prices are quoted for ceremony attendees lodged at the hotel. This package cannot be combined with the Excellence Honeymoon complimentary package.

--------------------------------------------------------------------------------