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top 5 reasons to have a destination wedding ...

There are dozens of reasons to have a far flung destination wedding (DW) but we've rounded up our top 5 ...

 1. Neutral Territory 

Gone are the days when people marry their high school sweetheart, stay in their hometown for college and never move away. Nowadays, reality reads a bit more like this: graduate from high school, move out of state for college and then most likely make another move (or several) for work. So, the chances of marrying someone from the same zip code (let alone the same state) are slim to none. Having a D.W. eliminates any friction or proprietary attitudes about being on the bride's or the groom's turf. Instead, it becomes a fun adventure that everyone is excited about.

2. The World Becomes Your Playground (Literally)

That said, you don't have to go to the most far flung destination you can find. A D.W. is defined as anything that calls for more than half of your guests to book accommodations. Selecting the destination is the FUN part and should reflect the personality of the couple or be a place, which holds a special place in their hearts.



3. It's Good For Your Wallet 

If your guests require a passport to go to your wedding, this will cut your RSVP's down automatically. Our couples average about 50 guests at their celebrations, making it a much more intimate affair where the "obligatory" invites are replaced by those "must be there" friends and family only. Vendors in many popular destinations such as Mexico are significantly less expensive than those in the U.S. Your money also goes a lot further. Instead of having a four hour event in a hotel ballroom, your party can go until the sun rises (or until the last man is standing). A D.W. is more than just a wedding ... it's a three day experience.


4. Paparazzi

So, yeah, a hotel ballroom can dress up nicely, but how can you compare that backdrop to, say, the sunsets in Tulum? A destination wedding weekend entails events throughout (picture golf tourneys, beach parties, sunset nuptials by the sea). Get the picture? You would have your own personal paparazzi at all times for the weekend capturing every spectacular detail and special moment.


5. It's all in the details ...

It's all in the details ... I love incorporating the local flavor and traditions of the location. Getting hitched in Mexico? How about setting up a Tequila & Mezcal tasting table equipped with a Tequila Sommelier? Send guests home with colorful Tequila shooters crafted by local villagers. It's the little touches that your guests will remember long after the wedding is over. Have fun with the process, get creative & have fun!

Photo Credits: Sean Marshall Lin

destination wedding locations
that don't require a passport

Contrary to popular belief... Europe and the Caribbean islands don't have a lock on delivering a culture-drenched experience for a destination wedding. There are plenty of U.S. locales that can deliver this, but you don't need a passport to get there.....

Our Top 5 Favorite Spots ...


1. SCOTTSDALE, AZ



From it's rugged terrain to it's ritzy resorts and championship golf courses ... this Southwestern Mecca offers something for everyone. We suggest incorporating the allure of the Sonoran desert in your reception decor (think succulents and warm colors). Embrace the heat with creative & fun touches to keep your guests cool such as personalized fans, signature cocktails, etc.

2. NEW ORLEANS, LA



Where else can you have a live brass band lead the procession from your ceremony to your reception site? Life in "The Big Easy" revolves around music, delectable cuisine and a spirited atmosphere, giving you all the ingredients for an unforgettable party! We recommend steering clear of popular events such as Mardi Gras and Jazz Fest to avoid high hotel rates and limited availability of top musicians, caterers, etc.

3. PALM SPRINGS, CA



The perfect mishmash of purple hued mountains, sparkling pools and modern design; this palm-studded oasis is a pretty marvelous wedding destination. Couples can even wed in unique locales such as Frank Sinatra's abode, Twin Pals, known for its piano-shaped pool.

4. FLORIDA



Easy to get to, tropical & relaxed, the Sunshine State is a little slice of paradise. What we love about this destination is the diversity of wedding venues & properties throughout the state. From sprawling beach resorts to intimate inns & historic hotels, there is something for everyone. A few of our favorites? Key West, Amelia Island & Miami Beach ...

5. MAUI, HI



The waterfalls, the beaches, the Aloha Spirit... It's hard to go wrong with a wedding here. Romance exudes at every corner and the island offers an array of dreamy places to say "I do". To really embrace the magic of the island, we suggest a sunset ceremony on the beach...