Tuesday, February 15, 2011

Destination I Do: Pros & Cons

Working from Paradise Island this week, has me thinking all things destination, beautiful weather, beach, and outdoors. What decor design could be more breathtaking than the crystal clear ocean and bright blue sky as your landscape? More importantly, these fabulous elements are FREE. I love the idea of combining refined elegance with a laid-back setting.

Having a hard time narrowing down a venue you love? Just think of all the gorgeous places there are to choose from....Jamaica, St. Lucia, Cabo San Lucas, Aruba, Punta Cana, Bahamas, Hawaii...the list goes on and on.

Destination weddings have been a growing trend for years now. Not sure if a wedding-away-from-home is right for you? Check out these pros and cons from About.com and weigh the option.

Pro: A Complete Package
Resorts and tourism organizations offer many complimentary services to make your destination wedding stress-free and simple. On-site planners will help you coordinate all the ceremony and reception essentials (marriage license, officiant, cake, food, dj, band, etc.).

Con: The Distance & Legal Red Tape
Juggling all the details from a distance can become stressful if you don't have assistance with these details. You might run into complications when trying to get a marriage license that's why you should have a planner or coordinator to help you over these speed bumps.

Pro: Avoid Stressful Family Situations
With a smaller invitation list, you can avoid feeling "forced" to invite the cousin you can't stand, or the in-law that everyone fights with. Keep it intimate. Just invite your very close friends and family.

Con: Some Family and Friends May Not Be There
Some guests will not attend due to the expense, or the difficulty getting time of off work. Olders guests may not feel comfortable or be able to travel far away from home.

Pro: Saves Money
You will save alot of money by not having 200 people at the reception. Spending a luxuirous weekend in a dramatic destination often costs less than a seated dinner at a nice location. It is proper etiquette to try and cover some guests expenses i.e. hotel stay, food & beverage. Guests pay for their own airfare and depending on the budget it is not unusual for them to cover their own hotel and airfare.

Con: No Money
Again, some of your friends and family may not be able to afford to pay for travel accommodations. Consider paying for some of your guests and look into group discounts through travel agents.

Pro: Combining the Wedding and Honeymoon
Killing two birds with one stone is another reason to have the trip of a lifetime in a beautiful location.

Con: Lots to do, Will You Really Get a Honeymoon?
Yes! You will get some romantic time alone but it is important that you schedule it and insist on it. Arrive a few days before everyone else and leave a few days later than everyone else.

Concerned that the planning will be too overwhelming or details too cookie-cutter? No worries, SHE travels and can help you every step of the way :-)

Happy Planning!
Shayla
Photo Credit: Flights Of Fancy

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