Day Dream: Top 2012 Destination Wedding Locations

 Intimacy, romance, and breathtaking scenery in an exotic place, are all reasons that destination weddings are on the rise when it comes to wedding locations in 2012.  More than ever, brides are not sticking with the conventional way of getting married and choose to fly their immediate family and friends to their dream location for a wedding that no one will forget.  There are many wonderful reasons as to why a destination wedding would be a perfect location, including that it provides you and your guests a wonderful excuse to get away from all the stresses of life and come together for an important moment in a magnificent place.  Whether it is putting your toes in the sand, saying “I do” under an important monument, or celebrating your special day in a vineyard surrounded by enchanting countryside, one of these Top Eight 2012 trending destination wedding locations will be perfect for you. 

Paris, France

The city of romance has been the most popular wedding destination for many years and for many charming reasons.  The way of life in Paris inspires pure romance and peaceful tranquility.  The incredible locations including the Eiffel Tower or the Louvre could be the perfect locations for your wedding ceremony with many different hotels and venues to choose from for your reception.  The combination of the tremendous sites, the impeccable service and the delicious food, all make Paris, France a luxurious wedding location for any bride.

Mexico

Whether it is the upbeat culture or the white sandy beaches, Mexico is a very popular spot for wedding locations in past years and especially in 2012.  There are many resort cities to choose from, including Cancun, Cabo and Puerto Vallarta.  The warm weather, the bluest oceans, the welcoming and upbeat civilians and the sandy beaches, all make Mexico a dream come true. 

Hawaii

You do not have to travel very far or out of the country to find your perfect destination wedding location.  Hawaii is unique because it is close enough where your friends and family do not mind traveling to and it looks and feels like an island in the tropical Caribbean.  This paradise group of islands is not only beautiful, it is relatively inexpensive and there is a lot for you and your guests to enjoy.  The remarkable culture provides a fun atmosphere that you will appreciate on your wedding day. 

Jamaica

Jamaica has long been a very popular vacation spot and is now becoming one of the best wedding destinations around the world.  From the exquisite Atlantis Hotel, the white sandy beaches, to the beautiful jungles and waterfalls, there are stunning locations to choose from for your big day.  The colorful culture, the fabulous scenery and the extraordinary people will all combine to make your day one to remember.

St. John-Virgin Islands

Would you like your photos to look exactly like a postcard?  The Virgin Island’s clear Caribbean waters, the warm weather, the beaches and the tall palm trees, will all make this dream a reality.  Not only is this location unforgettable, it is within the United States borders so you and your guests will not have to stress about getting your passports.  This location is so beautiful you will not want to leave. 

Turks and Caicos

Within the last few years, Turks and Caicos has really become a popular travel spot, and we can see why.  This incredible chain of islands in the Caribbean gives miles and miles of white sandy beaches and clear blue water that creates a luxurious background to a wedding ceremony and reception.  This island is known for its calm atmosphere and would be a perfect spot for a romantic and relaxed wedding. 

Napa Valley

Why leave the United States when Napa Valley has the most romantic and chic feel for any fall bride.  The beautiful colored leaves, the rustic oak, the sweet smelling vineyards and the breathtaking countryside all combine to make one dream setting.  We would recommend having a rustic, vintage or country theme if you choose to wed here.  The colors of these themes, candlelight and the never-ending view will all combine to create a romantic atmosphere that most have never experienced before.    

Tabernash, Colorado

Wasn’t expecting this location were you?  This past year, Tabernash, Colorado has become one of the top locations for couples who want to be married in a gorgeous mountain and wilderness setting.  Not only is this destination unique for it’s view, but it is also unique because it is one of the top eco-friendly locations in the world.  Tabernash is located one hour west of Denver and includes a relaxing spa and a series of luxurious cabins where you and your guests could stay.  The grand mountains, the sweeping meadows and the rustic atmosphere are a great alternative for a memorable destination wedding.

What could be more romantic than saying “I do” on a beach where the waves are crashing and a beautiful sunset is the background?  Or sitting under candlelight in a miraculous vineyard, sipping wine and having that beautiful never-ending view of Napa Valley?  A destination wedding is a combination of a wedding and a honeymoon and you could share this experience with your close family members and friends.  Before setting your location, be sure to find out about their marriage laws and if they have any wedding packages that could make your wedding less expensive and less stressful.  Besides sharing this beautiful location with your loved ones, another incredible perk to having your wedding at your dream location is that you will not have to worry very much on decorating and transforming your venue, the location is absolutely perfect on its own. 


Aloha!   
BBFN,
Oliva

Theme Weddings: Do or Don't

When I think of a theme wedding visions of a bridal party dressed in Renaissance Costumes or Lightsabers come to mind. Now, I realize that many theme weddings don’t take it to that extreme, so I will give you a cautious “Do” when it comes to theme weddings.

My caveat on the “Do” is that the overwhelming theme of your wedding is YOU!

A Bride and Groom cannot go wrong if they make sure their wedding is a true reflection of themselves. What are you and your fiancé passionate about? How can that translate into your wedding?

Here are a few ideas:

Date: Select the date of your wedding to correspond with your favorite season, to accommodate the overall fashion look you are going for or that will allow you to incorporate food you love, when it’s in season, on your menu. If you love the colors of fall and warm apple pie, find a date in the fall. Always picture wearing a (faux) fur stole and taking pictures in a snowy winter wonderland, pick a date in a winter month like January or February (you may even score some deals as it’s the slow season).



Décor: Incorporate colors, images, artwork and personality into the overall look of your day. In this aspect the difference lies in the details. Set your “theme” for your guests in your wedding invitation. Carry it through in all of your wedding day stationary (programs, place cards, menu cards, thank you cards, etc.) to pull off a very polished look. Work with your floral designer and decorator to incorporate important colors, textures and fabrics throughout your big day. Be creative with centerpieces, we love flowers, but you can bring in some fun non-floral items depending on the look you are going for.



Pre & Post-Wedding Parties: Bridal showers, Bachelor & Bachelorette Parties, Rehearsal Dinners and a post-wedding Brunches are all great opportunities to bring your theme through. Keep your colors in mind, pass out fun theme related favors, and add some fun touches.

If you’re the biggest Trekkies around, no one will be surprised to see Captain Spock as the Officiant of your ceremony. Not quite so passionate? Then make sure YOU (& your fiancé, I mean YOU as a couple), your passions and personalities are the theme of your wedding, you can’t go wrong!

BBFN (Bridal Bliss for Now),
Olivia