These days, many couples want to make their wedding extra special by making a trip out of it, traveling somewhere else just to be married. These are called destination weddings. Often, destination weddings are thought to be expensive because of all the money spent getting to the place. The great thing about this is that there are so many destination wedding ideas, you are sure to have a really unique wedding.

Beach

            Like summer themed weddings, beach themed weddings (which usually isn't a far cry from a summer theme) are also very popular. It is by far the most popular among any of the location or destination weddings, with about 50% of all couples opting for this theme.

            The ceremony itself can (or some think should) take place on a beach or on a cliff overlooking the beach. Often, small resorts which have beach fronts cater to occasions like this, so that the bride and groom can be married at the beach, and the reception can follow at the resort or on the beach as well.

            If you want to have this type of wedding, be sure to check with the beach of your choice for regulations regarding hosting a wedding at the beach. Some beaches may not let you serve alcohol, may not let you pitch a tent, or may limit your number of guests! Also, look into the schedule of the tides, so that you're sure you are holding your ceremony and reception during a time when the waters are not swirling around your feet!

            Beach themed receptions are easy to decorate. Often, flowers and leis are used to remind people of places like Hawaii and the Caribbean, while beach balls, shells, and tiki torches line the borders of the reception area as well as add to the theme. Some couples like laying out banana leaves on the tables instead of table runners and have tropical fruits as centerpieces instead of flowers.

            In terms of clothing, many brides have chosen to get married in beach dresses or maxi dresses, though some have gotten married in bathings suits as well. Often, flowers are put through the bride's hair, and wrist leis are wrapped around her wrists while holding a bouquet. Some grooms choose to get married in shirts with beach prints on them, while others do a more traditional shirt with a lei around the neck.

            A beach themed wedding gives the perfect backdrop for an acoustic guitar with soft love songs. This accompanies the various summer foods of roasted pork, fresh seafood dishes, and tropical fruit courses really well. Line the layers of the cake with leis or garlands in order to tie it in with the theme. Finally, give away beach beads or bracelets and necklaces as wedding favors.

Page 2: Destination Wedding Ideas