Today we have the privilege of having a guest post from Make Happy Memories! Please enjoy!
You and your partner just got engaged and have decided to go for the destination wedding of your dreams. Aside from all the other elements like flowers, wedding planner, wardrobe, cake, and favors, the true star of this type of affair is the venue. The location instantly makes a statement, giving your guests a sneak peek on what to expect and what’s going to unfold on your big day.
There are endless possibilities for this type of celebration — it could be on top of a mountain, at a chateau in a romantic city, an exotic beach paradise, or by a majestic cliff overlooking the Aegean Sea. If you haven’t decided which one fits your fairytale wedding, we have rounded up the top destinations to help you make up your mind.
Greece
WHY WED HERE: One of the few countries in the world that have perfected the mix of natural beauty, rich history, and vibrant culture, Greece is a top pick when it comes to weddings abroad. The place boasts of majestic views and pristine islands that serve as perfect backdrops for unforgettable celebrations. One stand-out appeal of Greece is its splendid weather. From May to September, you can enjoy an abundance of sunshine, as summer reigns during these months. The place is also equipped with accommodations, venues, and wedding suppliers that ensure hassle-free planning.
WHERE TO WED: Santorini for its jaw-dropping views or Athens for luxurious resorts and palm-fringed coastlines. There are also amazing secret spots within Greece for couples who want something more low-key and intimate.
WHEN TO WED: The beauty of Greece can be experienced all-year-round. Each of the seasons – summer, spring, autumn, and winter — feature unique experiences that will wow your guests. If you’re looking to wed outdoors, the months between April to October boast of superb weather perfect for an enchanting and magical celebration.
BUDGET: Greece is a fairly affordable country to get married in. It offers a wide variety of selections for engaged couples, depending on your budget. An exclusive use of an indoor venue or beach location with sunset view, for example, starts at €2,000, excluding the food. There are expert wedding coordinators in Greece that can help you arrange your event, from finding the ideal church and venue down to scoring the best deals.
Italy
WHY WED HERE: If you want a wedding that is oozing with romance, style, and sophistication, Italy is the destination for you. From picturesque vineyards down to magical chateaus, you’ll truly feel like royalty while walking down the aisle. The best luxury brands also come from Italy. That’s why you’ll never run out of options for your wedding wardrobe.
WHERE TO WED: Head to Lake Como for a celebrity-inspired lakeside wedding or to Florence and Tuscany for a chic countryside party. For a traditional Italian gathering, Venice is the place to be.
WHEN TO WED: Wedding season in Italy is from late April until the end of October. Some couples also opt for winter weddings usually done in the northern part of the country.
BUDGET: Italy caters to all types of wedding, from simple to extravagant ones. Exclusive day use of a venue, for example, can cost as low as €2,000, while a country style venue can cost you €3,500 per day. If you have money to spend and want to go big on your wedding, a villa hotel can cost at around €9,000 per day. Please note that these prices are above other expenses like catering, accommodation, favors, etc.
Bali
WHY WED HERE: Lush surroundings, gorgeous resorts, and scenic views make Bali the perfect location for exotic and memorable nuptials. Known as “Island of the Gods,” Bali possesses a certain kind of magic that enchants its visitors. Mountains, cliffs, beaches, rice paddies, and temples create a dreamy background for destination weddings. You can also extend your stay for a relaxing honeymoon.
WHERE TO WED: If you want to get married somewhere with a stunning view, Uluwatu should fit the bill. Amazing resorts like Alila and Ayana are perched atop limestone cliffs overlooking the Indian Ocean at this part of the island. You may also opt for a jungle-inspired wedding in Ubud.
WHEN TO WED: April to October is Bali’s dry season, suitable for outdoor weddings and sunset ceremonies.
BUDGET: Getting hitched in Bali is affordable! There are other low-key and casual spots which you can consider, with fees at a maximum of only €4,000. Food, services, and tours are also on the cheap side. Resorts like Alila and Ayana which are on the fancier side can start at around €6,000.
Las Vegas
WHY WED HERE: Love is a gamble so why not get married in Sin City? If you want a unique and no-fuss ceremony, this is the destination for you. Elvis impersonators, quaint chapels, and big hotels — Vegas has all of them. You can also add in awesome pre-wedding activities like a romantic photoshoot at the Grand Canyon National Park, a visit to the Bellagio Garden, or a lovely date night watching a live performance.
WHERE TO WED: There are literally hundreds of possible wedding and ceremony venues in Las Vegas, but the best ones should be Wedgewood Weddings, Red Rock Country Club, and if you want to get quirky, The Graceland Storybook Wedding Chapel.
WHEN TO WED: You can get married in Vegas all year round. If you decide to have a seasonal outdoor wedding, the best time to do it is during spring or autumn or around April – May, and September – November.
BUDGET: As a popular wedding spot, Las Vegas offers affordable to moderately affordable weddings. Some venues offer packages starting at around €3,000, excluding the food.
Caribbean
WHY WED HERE: Tropical paradise with powdery white sand and turquoise waters, what more can you ask for? Probably the ideal location for beach weddings, the Caribbean is the ultimate sea, sun, and sunshine haven. Stunning coasts, enchanting gardens, stylish boutique hotels, and warm sunny weather set the Caribbean apart from other destinations.
WHERE TO WED: Exuma in The Bahamas, a swanky hotel in Bermuda, or the Ritz Carlton in the Cayman Islands.
WHEN TO WED: May – November marks the hurricane season in the area. Peak season starts in December and ends in April.
BUDGET: Airfare to the Caribbean can be expensive, but the wide selection of great bargains for food and lodging for your guests make up for it. Some hotels offer all in ceremony packages for as low as €2,500.
I hope that these ideas can get your brain turning for even more wedding wanderlust ideas!
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