Destination

weekend at a fabulous destination often costs less than a formal to-do at the hometown country club. For starters, your guest list is typically whittled down-traditional nuptials average 164 attendees compared to 53 guests for destination "I do's". Many resorts and hotels offer all-inclusive bridal deals, comprehensive packages that generally cover all means, drinks and activities under one flat rate. Some places even promise a free honeymoon as well as kickbacks on guest accommodations if the couple brings in a certain number of people for their event. Having a destination wedding not only means your romantic getaway begins even

photographers focus in on destination nuptials. You've chosen one of the most beautiful places on earth to begin your new life together. Whether sand and surf, breathtaking mountain views or a sophisticated cityscape, your wedding backdrop will surely be nothing short of spectacular. As the two of you savor each moment, you count on your photographer to capture the natural splendor and emotion of your big day. How do you ensure a successful shoot? We asked top wedding destination photographers to share their tried and true formulas. First of all, while it may be tempting to opt for one of the great "deals" offered by many

A growing number of destination brides and grooms show their commitment to each other and Mother Earth by opting for an eco-friendly bash. For good reason: Besides supporting our planet, "green weddings can be more economical," says Christina Friedrichsen, founder of IntimateWeddings.com. " Here, Friedrichsen and fellow wedding industry veterans share simple steps couples can take to marry and save green. SIMPLIFY THE DECOR. The beach or a flower-filled garden makes for a green venue that requires less energy and embellishment. "Highlight what's already there in a simple way," says Friedrichsen, author of Intimate

With any wedding-local or destination-travel, energy consumption and waste have an environmental impact that lasts far longer than the event itself. "The typical U.S. wedding and honeymoon generate 9 to 16 tons of carbon dioxide emissions," says Jennifer Hattam, the green lifestyle editor for Sierra magazine, "almost as much as the average American generates in an entire year." Tying the knot far from home creates even more obstacles when striving to go green, adds Tara Soloway, cofounder and head coordinator for LUXE destination Weddings, a consulting firm and travel agency. "destination weddings require excess travel, so there

vows at your dream destination can easily become reality. Long gone are the days when a destination wedding meant eloping. Now an ever- growing number of brides and grooms say "I do" on stunning far-flung beaches, at romantic wine country resorts and in historic hotel ballrooms surrounded by family and friends. Exchanging vows at an exotic locale not only adds adventure and fun for the bridal couple and their guests, it can actually simplify the process of getting married, reducing stress, costs and potential family drama. Another draw: Your honeymoon begins the moment you arrive at your destination. This page discusses more

be familiar with the destination you've picked and can give you valuable insider's tips and travel advice. How do I find the best wedding coordinator? If you plan to marry at a well-known resort or hotel, chances are the property has its own coordinator on staff. If not, ask the concierge to recommend a local wedding planner along with a list of professional vendors in the area. Also, contact the local tourist bureau for information or search online for who's available at your destination. Are we obligated to invite all of our friends and family to the event? No. A destination wedding allows you more flexibility with the guest list, which

the wedding couple. The destination wedding is typically under 40 people and involves a few days of activities for all the guests. The destination wedding is the central location that the bride and groom chose as their "headquarters". Activities are then planned for their guests from this location. These destination weddings can be an exotic destination or the hometown in which you grew up. When planning a destination wedding be sure to have an itinerary for your guest, so they will have an idea about what to expect. Whether it is an exotic destination or the hometown in which you grew up, there is a wide array of choices to put you in touch

covers all bases of your destination event, including when to order the wedding invitations, book a photographer and schedule the wedding dress fitting. A Year to Six Months Before the Wedding Decide on a budget. Determine the style (formal, informal), size (wedding party, guests), and setting (church,garden, beach) for the ceremony. Target a wedding date. Select a destination - check the internet or contact a travel agent. Create a file for contracts, notes of conversations, and other wedding-related information. Research the marriage license requirements of your destination. If possible, request an application ahead of time from the

Destination Wediquette Faraway affairs are often less formal than homegrown vows. Still, when it comes to matters like money, bridal gifts and invitations, a few rules apply. Here are some tips to help guide you through the list of dos and don'ts. Guest List With an affair far away from home, you needn't feel compelled to invite your third cousins twice removed. Just remember that in between the cost of airfare and accommodations and getting time off from work and school, not everyone on your list will be able to join you. Typically, about 70 percent of the people invited to a Destination event show up, according to

Farms the ideal wedding destination for Northern Michigan weddings. Say "I do" in breathtaking courtyard chapels with water fountains and surrounding gardens, the picturesque backdrop for your special day. With four beautiful seasons in Michigan, a Northern Michigan wedding is especially gorgeous amid the grandeur and old-world charm of Castle Farms. Open year round, this exquisite winter wonderland is perfect for a Michigan wedding, reception or a corporate holiday party.  Castle Farms also offers self-guided and guided tours - a unique and entertaining way to spend the day with family and friends. Whether to view our beautiful gardens,