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