Kiss the Bride
by Cheryl Floyd

KISS THE BRIDE
Destination Weddings
Cheryl Floyd, CTC DS
Romance Specialist 

All Seasons Travel
120 Office Park Drive
Birmingham, AL 35223
205-870-3003 

Because all brides want their wedding to be unique and special, there is a growing trend in couples opting to tie the knot in a non-traditional setting.  A destination wedding opens up the possibilities by allowing you to go off the beaten path to make your wedding dreams come true.

 The cost of a destination wedding depends on which route you decide to take.  There are several resorts in the Caribbean where the cost of your wedding is included in your honeymoon package.  This is the simplest way to go.  Once you are settled at the resort, you will meet with a wedding coordinator who will review all the options that will enable you to customize your wedding.  These resorts have several onsite locations that are perfect for weddings.  I have seen everything from a gazebo tucked away in a tropical garden to red carpet rolled out on the sand where the bride walked almost to the water’s edge to meet her groom!  Even if you choose to marry in a location where the wedding is not included in your package, arrangements can usually be made through a local wedding coordinator, who (for a fee!) will take care of all the details from start to finish.  In this case your imagination and your wallet are the limits.       

 What could be more romantic than sailing off into the sunset after saying, “I do”?  Cruise ship weddings are gaining in popularity for many reasons.  In addition to being a fun and exciting location for your memorable wedding, shipboard weddings allow you to combine your ceremony and reception with a cruise honeymoon.   If you choose to marry in the departure port, your family can join you for the ceremony and then leave as you sail off to your honeymoon at sea.  Other cruise ship options include weddings at sea or onshore in one of the ports of call.  

The size of your wedding will vary depending on the location.  Expect more people to attend if you choose a destination that is within driving distance of your hometown.  If your destination is accessible only by flying you can generally count on family and really close friends to attend.  This is a factor you will need to consider in determining the location of your wedding.  

Legal restrictions are another consideration when planning a destination wedding.  In addition to requiring a local marriage license, some destinations require a passport, blood tests, immunization certificates in order for you to legally marry.  Many Caribbean islands require that you establish “residency” of at least 48 hours.  Often a waiting period and a certain number of witnesses are mandatory.  Your travel agent or wedding coordinator should help you determine what is required and assist you in processing the necessary documentation. 

With seemingly limitless possibilities, planning a destination wedding and honeymoon can be stressful.  Why trust this most important trip to anyone but a specialist?  With over fourteen years experience in planning perfect honeymoons, I am qualified to plan your special trip.  Please call for an appointment and let’s start planning your romantic getaway!  

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