Image Courtesy of www.Michigan.Org

When two people choose to get married, it can be a very big decision. There is a great deal of planning that goes into many different kinds of weddings and choosing the right kind of venue for your ceremony can be a bit of challenge. There are so many different options that convey different emotions and contain different atmospheres that can help enhance the ceremony itself and provide a comfortable place for both family, friends and those who are undergoing the ceremony.  Here are some ideas for romantic venues for weddings – in honor of the most romantic day of the year!

Heaven Event Center, Orlando, Florida

One of the most important aspects of any ceremony is having everything perfect and exactly the way that you want. In order to make this happen, many people choose to hold their ceremonies in venues that they can decorate themselves such as the Heaven Event Center in Orlando, Florida. These give those, who are looking to undergo the ceremony, the ability to create a loving and romantic atmosphere that accurately reflects the love that the two people have for each other. Customizable venues can portray a loving, vital and vibrant reflection of the relationship between the two who are willing to tie the knot together.

The Grand Hotel, Mackinac Island, Michigan

One of the most important parts of ceremonies is making them memorable. Having your ceremony at the top of a building like the The Grand Hotel and seeing all of the surrounding area below can create a very memorable experience. Your events can be held in two locations, on the balcony or in the garden. Not only do you have everything (I repeat – EVERYTHING!) you may need on location – salon, hotel rooms, activities for your guests (golf, tennis, swimming, etc.), the beautiful scenery will create an even more memorable experience for all involved.

English Gardens, Winter Park, Florida

A garden, such as the English Gardens located in Winter Park, Florida, is a fantastic place to hold a wedding ceremony because of the natural beauty that the foliage and flora provide. It helps to give people fresh air and is a stark contrast from a stuffy, traditional church. What makes a garden so great is the fact that people can enjoy nice weather outside in a relaxing atmosphere and go right to the reception which can be held near the ceremony itself.

Any Cathedral or Chateau in France

Everybody dreams of having a traditional wedding where the bride and groom romantically exchange vows in a traditional church. This is how marriages have been done for quite a while and is the stand-by for those who wish to hold ceremonies. But, some people strive for something a little larger than a regular church.  Cathedrals like the gorgeous Chartres Cathedral (used as an example just to place an image!) in France offer a towering, grandiose and beautiful alternative to regular churches as they seem to mirror the importance and majesty of the occasion. Cathedrals, and Chateaus, are perfect for people who love the idea of marking an important time in their lives with a grand statement. These types of venues not only provide you with an incredible destination wedding, you and your loved one are also able to be married in one of the most romantic countries in the world!

Paradise Cove, Orlando, Florida

Many people who choose to have a less traditional wedding often opt for a ceremony by an ocean, such as Paradise Cove in Orlando, Florida. This can be extremely romantic for the same reason above (Mackinac Island) but because it is near the ocean and it adds a bit of fun to the mix. People can enjoy the sand and the sun as well as the water while they watch two people join together in holy matrimony.

All of these options present beautiful ways to get married to the person you love. One can be sure that picking a venue that is romantic and beautiful is exactly what is needed can bring lasting happiness to any relationship and marriage.

Image Courtesy of Hotel Kakslauttanen

Many people choose to stay in romantic tropical locations for their honeymoon. However, others like to make their honeymoon one they will never forget. Choosing a unique place to stay for your honeymoon provides you and your new spouse the opportunity to spend the night in a place that you would never think possible.
Under the Sea

Some people may have heard of Atlantis, the mystical city that disappeared beneath the ocean. The Poseidon Underwater Resort, located somewhere off the coast of Fiji, provides guests with a unique one-week experience. This hotel’s rooms are actually located 40 feet below the surface of the ocean. Guests descend to the rooms via elevator. Each room provides panoramic views of the ocean floor and the sea life that resides there. Space is extremely limited, and you must stay for one week.

An Icy Stay

Spending the night in an arctic location may not seem like a pleasant experience for newlyweds. However, there are a couple of ice hotels available where you can stay in comfort within the arctic circle for your honeymoon. ICEHOTEL, in Sweden, is rebuilt each winter to create a new experience for each guest. The hotel is only open between the months of December and April. After April, the walls begin to melt, making the hotel unsafe.

Another ice hotel option is Hotel Kakslauttanen in Finland. At this hotel, newlyweds can choose to stay in a log cabin or the special honeymoon turf chamber. If a couple seeks a different experience, they can choose to spend their time at the hotel in an igloo. The igloo provides guests with an AMAZING view of the Northern Lights.  For Destination Weddings, they have options for both summer and winter weddings.  They also have two options for chapels – including one completely sculpted out of ice and snow.

Turkish Caves

If Turkey is the honeymoon destination, the Gamirasu Cave Hotel provides a unique experience. This hotel was built in the same way the traditional cave dwellings in the area were built. In fact, it is actually a remodeled Byzantine monastic retreat. However, the remodel kept the hotel looking much as it originally had so it still fits in with the surrounding landscape. The hotel provides honeymooning couples with several packages that are tailored specifically for a newlywed couple.  If you click on the wedding section of their site, you can read about previous weddings at the caves.

Royal Accommodations

Those who travel to Scotland or Ireland for their honeymoon can take advantage of the royal treatment. Both countries offer the opportunity for newlywed couples to spend their honeymoon inside one of the many castles located throughout the area. These historic castles have been transformed into hotel accommodations for visitors to enjoy. A newlywed couple can relax away from their normal lives and pretend they are king and queen for the endurance of their honeymoon.

Scottish Honeymoons

In addition to staying in one of the castles in Scotland, honeymooners can choose from one of the other unique experiences available. A newlywed couple can choose to spend three or six days on a cruise, which uses an old wooden ship. This unique experience gives couples a taste of what it was like before the time of iron steamers. Other options in Scotland include staying in a lighthouse, at a secluded island hideaway or in an 18th century farmhouse.

Choosing a unique honeymoon destination gives you and your new spouse a chance to make memories that will last a life time. Everyone remembers their honeymoon, but many choose a destination that they have visited before or will visit again. Making your honeymoon a unique experience ensures that you will always remember this special time following your very special day.

Image Courtesy of The Ridge Resort at Lake Tahoe

A wedding is a special event filled with precious memories to treasure for years to come. Choosing the top US locations for an outdoor winter wedding proved to be quite challenging as many resorts are available that specialize in winter weddings, each having their own aura of charm and elegance. The five cited below are definitely at the top of the list.

1.The Ridge Resort at Lake Tahoe, Nevada. This facility takes care of all details including wedding, reception and accommodations. For winter weddings, a complimentary package is offered which includes 3 night honeymoon, champagne toast for reception and your choice of either two Heavenly Lift tickets or an exclusive spa gift certificate. For the perfect wedding, include a brief ceremony at the base of the lift. Once ended, take off in a shower of confetti with your spouse aboard the Heavenly lift for a quiet time together, returning later to join your wedding party at the reception by a fireplace indoors. Photos taken at different sites could fill your album with a wonderland of wedding memorabilia.

2.Hudson Gardens Event Center in Denver, Colorado. This location offers unique and picturesque settings or your winter wedding outdoors. Imagine sheer white of the bride’s dress against white snow with splotches of color such as her bouquet and the grooms black tux, combined with an array of color chosen for the wedding party. Mink wraps, sable stoles or faux fur would add a touch of elegance and the service of a white or silver stretch limo or horse -driven carriage for the wedding party is a plus. A gazebo with white gauzy hangings and ornate space heaters would create a magical effect for the ceremony. Then move indoors to a reception by a fireplace where rich decorations, sumptuous food, petit fours and warm spicy drinks would add a delicious completion to this fairy tale wedding.

3. Stonebridge Country Club in Manchester, New Hampshire, is a scenic and beautiful location for winter weddings. With a heat pump and open fires, an aura of warmth will be yours throughout the wedding ceremony and reception. The ceremony and reception can be held in a canopied tent or at a site with a panoramic view of the garden or lake, a wonderland of white in winter. The staff at Stonebridge will cater to your fancy and address your theme of choice whether a Hawaiian luau or Scottish highland’s feast.

4.Star Hill Ranch in Austin, Texas. If history and country are your style for a winter wedding, Star Hill Ranch is the place for you. Situated along a historic street framed with buildings that mark the area’s historic past, Star Hill Ranch has much to offer. Located only minutes apart are its quaint historic country chapel and a charming bride’s house. The mild winters Texas boasts allow the ceremony and reception to be held in its outdoor arbor. The wide streets will accommodate hayrides or street parades to add that great flavor of an outdoor country winter wedding.

5. Lanikuhonua in Hawaii. Who says you can’t have it all? You can escape to an island paradise for the winter wedding of your dreams. Lanikuhonua has a private get-away beach and offers quite a romantic setting for your winter wedding. With its breathtaking scenery and delightful entertainment all you need is a colorful lei to complete your wedding outfit. You can choose from a simple barefoot wedding on the beach, to traditional, or a more exotic and elegantly romantic wedding on the lavish lawn areas that will astound your guests. This private beach setting is earmarked for a dream wedding never to be forgotten.

For your winter wedding, bear your guests’ comfort in mind. Make outdoor ceremonies brief, opt for comfortable clothing and have lots of hot spicy drinks on hand. You will have the unforgettable wedding you dreamed of and your guests will enjoy the moment with you!

The Alcyone Plantation, located 15 miles south of Valdosta, Georgia, offers many stunning options for your outdoor wedding. Sitting on 900 acres, you can exchange your wedding vows under the “Wedding Oak”, with tranquil views of the lake, or amidst mossy oak trees that rise in majestic splendor.

Rich in history and romance, the Monmouth Plantation, in Natchez, Mississippi, will delight you with their extraordinary attention to detail. Specializing in exceptional service, including an onsite wedding coordinator, the Monmouth Plantation will work with you to plan the wedding of your dreams.

In Crozet, Virginia, you will find beauty and elegance awaiting you at the King Family Vineyards. With amazing views of the Blue Ridge Mountains and award winning wines, this rural setting in Virginia is perfect for your wedding day.

When describing the Southern Oaks Plantation, in New Orleans, Louisiana, elegance says it all. Offering daytime ceremonies, amongst the majestic oak trees, or evening ceremonies under the stars, your wedding day is sure to be a most memorable experience. Horse and carriage options are also available, as well as a magnificent fireworks displays in honor of your celebration.

Louisiana Castle, located in Franklington, Louisiana, welcomes you with charm and exquisite detail. Overlooking lush gardens and picturesque views, your fairytale wedding awaits you. Located on 10 acres, this romantic castle was built as a replica of an English Norman Keep Castle and is a favorite wedding location in the south.

In Nashville, Tennessee, Belmont Mansion offers opulent choices for an intimate indoor wedding or larger wedding outdoors. This stately Victorian mansion, with beautiful details found throughout, makes a perfect choice for the celebration of your wedding day.

Rocky Mount, in Pratville, Alabama, offers a charming and romantic location for a southern garden wedding. Situated in the beautiful Alabama countryside, you will be inspired by the breathtaking scenery and lovely flowers in bloom. The garden will certainly make a delightful and picturesque location for your wedding day.

At the Crown Reef Resort in Myrtle Beach, South Carolina, you will find many exclusive wedding packages to choose from. Your wedding will take place in either an oceanfront or smaller, intimate gazebo with scenic views overlooking beautiful Myrtle Beach. For a more modern southern wedding, you will be pleased with all the Crown Reef Resort has to offer.

The Gassaway Mansion, in Greenville, South Carolina, is simply divine. With intricate details and exquisite beauty, you will find yourself in the pages of a storybook. Specializing in creating the wedding of your dreams, your wedding day will be forever treasured.

These are some of the most beautiful and romantic locations to choose from when planning your wedding in the south. With such a wide variety of lovely choices, combined with southern charm and hospitality, your wedding day is sure to be all you ever dreamed of and more.

Having a great wedding especially in another location will give a sense of spice and a sense of fantasy to your wedding. However, it’s very important to stay on top of things when going overseas. Here are some basic things to look at when you are planning your destination wedding abroad:

The first and most important thing to look at is cost. What type of season are you going to have your wedding? Taking oversea flights to different places in certain seasons may cost less or more. It’s always good to be on the look for deals regarding flights and packages. Make sure to save up money to pay for the flights and weddings there. Although a church might be free to get married, a specific location will definitely cost. Also, how many of your family is going there, and for how long. It’s important to plan on what type of hotel you are staying at and if you can get any discounted rates or specials because of the volume of people you bring. These are just a few of the major costs to consider when traveling abroad.

Another thing is the location of the wedding. This is very important because certain countries might have their own set of laws regarding marriage. Not only does the concern of what you have to do to get your marriage legal come into play in that said country, but will the marriage be legal in your home country. It’s best to check out the legalities before hand, so that your marriage is by law. This makes things a lot less complicated and less problematic in the long run before you take that flight.

The wedding date is the next thing that’s important. If you’re getting married in the Caribbean, don’t set a date for the hurricane/rainy season. This type of weather will create a lot of discomfort and you may not be able to fly there just because of flights being canceled to the destination. If you’re getting married on a cruise, make sure it’s during a time that’s not too strenuous for you and your loved ones. For more popular places like Paris, London and more in Europe, it’s best to plan a time where there are no major festivals or events. Finding a room as well as a place to get married will be doubly hard. It’s always best to plan before or after these major events.

Make sure to plan your date ahead of time to let people know what’s going on with the wedding. If you are planning wedding for an expensive destination, it’s good to let people know six months to a year ahead of time. This will give you time to make your planning much easier as well as give them a heads up in case anything changes. Also, this will be good consideration for your friends and family to save money up to a year in advance so there are no major financial issues.

Lastly, make sure you know the size of the wedding. Having different things like the wedding being catered, a fully stocked bar with bartender, and servers for the wedding reception all has a cost to pay. In certain countries, the fee may be significantly lower or higher depending on the amount of people and where the wedding takes place. Make sure you plan whether you want it to be a more inclusive wedding that only caters to your family and closest friends or more open. These are a few of the major things you want to figure out ahead of time.

Personalized Bottle Water

You can have personalized bottle water as favor, this could be either a DIY (do-it-yourself) project or you can purchase the personalized bottle water in bulk. Depending on your budget, either way these will make great beach favors.

“Go Green” Favors

Anything bamboo—from bamboo coasters to a bamboo picture frame, will make great beach favors and you are also helping the environment. You can either have a picture of you and your new hubby in the frame or you could right a personalized note and slide it in for your guest.

Fresh and Clean Favors

“Ocean Breeze” soaps are definitely a hit when it comes to beach wedding favors. These perfect little scented soaps are shaped like seashells and I am sure your guest will love them.

Flip Flop Favors

Give your guest some comfy shoes for your ceremony and I am pretty sure they will be appreciative. Have a host or hostess hand out flip flops to your guest as they enter your beach wedding. While flip flops could be rather costly depending on how many guest you have at your ceremony, the flip flops will definitely be a hit.

To make your escort card display extra special all you need is clothes pins and an old iron gate.  If you are  looking for a rustic chic look this is the perfect look for you!  Absolutely perfect for a vintage outdoor ceremony!

Pin The Escort Card To The Tree!

Having your escorts cards pinned to a tree trunk is definitely a creative way to seat your guest. This escort card display would be perfect for a garden wedding. Making use of your natural surroundings could also save you some extra bucks.

Use Shutters!

Many people may read this and assume that I have gone outdoor wedding crazy. But I haven’t! If you happen to go to an old junk yard or notice someone getting rid of their old shutters, scoop one up and use it for your outdoor ceremony. Depending on what shape it’s in, you could paint it decorate it how you like. Once you finally have it decorated to your liking you can just lay it against a tree. Viola! You have a wonderful escort card display!

Here are the top three disasters that could wreck your beach wedding and tips for avoiding them:

1.    Weather

Make sure you have a backup plan for the possibility of RAIN on your special day!  When considering your beach location, see about nearby pavilions or indoor facilities that you could easily transfer your ceremony to as a last-minute option.

◊ TIP: If you are having your reception indoors, consider the option of moving tables and chairs around to have your ceremony at that location in the case of rain.

If you are planning to have your beach wedding during a month with historically heavy rainfall, you may consider renting a tent for your outdoor ceremony.  You can check the average temperatures and rainfall in US cities here.

You can probably count on WINDY conditions for your beach wedding!  You should consider this when choosing the style of your wedding dress and the fabric– You may want to avoid light fabrics like chiffons.

◊ TIP: Tell your hairstylist that you are having a beach wedding so he/she knows to use plenty of hairspray. Men should consider using pomade or other styling gel products.

2.    Unwanted Guests

As you prepare to walk down the sandy aisle you want to be sure you look up to see the faces of your family, friends and loved ones– NOT the unsightly view of strange beach-goers in Speedos and bikinis as they stop to embrace the beautiful moment along with you and all of your guests!

◊ Consider having your ceremony during a less-popular time of day for those happy-go-lucky beach goers.
-OR-
◊ Choose an isolated location to avoid any UN-wanted guests!

Make sure your wanted guests are comfortable during your beach wedding ceremony! If the weather is HOT, provide your guests with ice-cold bottles of water before they are seated.

◊ TIP: Print your wedding program on a fan– which would also make a great keepsake for your guests!

3.    Permits

If you choose to have your wedding on a private beach, you probably have to go through a local wedding planning company– They will include a beach wedding permit in your wedding package.

If you are planning your wedding on your own and plan to use a public beach, be sure to find out if a beach wedding permit is needed.  If the beach is state owned you will probably need a permit, but sometimes written permission may be enough.  Contact the local city government or city parks department to find out what is required.

◊ TIP: Research rules and regulations concerning candle or torch lighting and trash removal too!

The Nuptial No-Nos

• Avoid short, flowing skirts and dresses that can easily blow upwards and wear something long (such as a pencil skirt) and tailored instead. Windy beach weddings are notorious for untimely exposures.

• Nix the high-heeled shoes that will sink into sand, mud or grass. Flats or stacked heels will be easier to maneuver on nature’s carpet.

• If the wedding will take place at midday when the sun is at its peak, refrain from wearing dark suits and jackets that will attract and absorb heat. Lighter-weight clothing is a much cooler option. A jacket that can be easily removed will come in handy if the celebration lasts into the evening or the day turns warmer or cooler than expected.

• Don’t wear hosiery, heavy makeup or chunky jewelry in hot, humid climates or you’ll melt.

Attire That Says “I Do”

• A dressy linen pantsuit would be nice and cool for an outdoor wedding. Pair it with a chic, floral-print top, and your ready for a garden wedding, or with sassy flats for the beach.

• Keep your summery yet sophisticated look by wearing sleeveless dresses, strappy sandals and glowing skin.

• Just as important as WHAT to wear is HOW to wear your hair.  Keep hairdos under control in hot weather with upswept styles that will remain neatly in place, no matter what Mother Nature dishes out.

• For outdoor weddings, don’t forget the accessories. No, I’m not talking about jewelry and purses but umbrellas, sunglasses, makeup blotting papers (or powder) and an extra pair of flat shoes just in case.

Extra Tip: For destination weddings, selecting a knit dress that resists wrinkles will keep you looking your best when you arrive or after unpacking.

]]> http://www.perfectoutdoorweddings.com/index.php/429/what-not-to-wear-to-an-outdoor-wedding/feed 0 http://www.perfectoutdoorweddings.com/index.php/279/trang-wedding http://www.perfectoutdoorweddings.com/index.php/279/trang-wedding#comments Mon, 02 Mar 2009 20:18:27 +0000 Victoria Sinclair http://www.perfectoutdoorweddings.com/?p=279 Getting married underwater is one of the most creative ways to tie the knot! In one of my earlier post, it was named one of the most adventurous ways to celebrate your nuptials. I found this write up about an incredible underwater wedding ceremony in Thailand. The town of Trang, Thailand, holds its annual humongous [...]]]> Getting married underwater is one of the most creative ways to tie the knot! In one of my earlier post, it was named one of the most adventurous ways to celebrate your nuptials. I found this write up about an incredible underwater wedding ceremony in Thailand. The town of Trang, Thailand, holds its annual humongous underwater wedding ceremony. Going into its 13th year, the underwater wedding takes place on February 13th-14th.  In 2000, the Guinness Book of Record was declared the largest underwater wedding event in the world, that’s according to Trang’s Tourism Coordination Center.

Can you imagine being all dolled up in your wedding dress and taking a plunge for love? Some may say it’s a romantic gesture, while others may say that is absolutely ludicrous! I personally, think it is daring, fun and if both parties are okay with it—then hey, go for it! But I would suggest, don’t spend a fortunate on your wedding dress, just to dive underwater to swap your vows.

Despite the some critics, people come out in droves to celebrate romance and enjoy the unique festivities. Along with the underwater ceremonies, the people of Trang put together a lavish parade, along with tons of Thai dishes and have a large wedding party for the Valentine’s Day Weekend.  I am sure that it would be just a sight to see, so if you ever in Trang, Thailand for a Valentine’s Day vacation check out one of the most largest underwater wedding ceremonies in the world! I am sure it will be a treat!