Destination Weddings - A Lifelong Dream Come True!: 5 Things you need to know before you plan your wedding

Destination Weddings - A Lifelong Dream Come True!: 5 Things you need to know before you plan your wedding

5 Things you need to know before you plan your wedding

1) Destination Weddings usually cost less than traditional weddings.

Destination weddings in the past were reserved for only the rich and famous, but in recent years they have become much more accessible to couples on a tighter budget looking to add an exotic flavor to their special day. If properly planned, you can save upwards of $20,000 off the cost of a traditional wedding, another benefit your wedding, it can become an unforgettable "mini vacation" for you and your guests.

2) You need to purchase Air & Hotel as a "Package"-or you could be in for an expensive surprise.

Although it is sometimes possible to negotiate with the hotel and airlines separately, you will generally be able to save more money booking the two as a package. We've talked with several brides throughout the years and have found those who have negotiated a good rate with the hotel find out they were unable to find an affordable airfare.

3) Destination Weddings can be a fun and relaxing experience for you and your guests-but only if you plan together.

Most couples we've worked with throughout the years, have said that making the accommodation arrangements for their guest has been just as important as all of the other wedding plans. When guests are let to fend for themselves, it is difficult to make sure guests get plans that are convenient, affordable and "close to where the action is." Even worse, without an experienced travel professional with an appropriate level of buying power on their side, couples and their guests are often talked into accepting "group rates" when the individual rates would have been better.

4) "Negotiate" directly with hotels at your own risks.

Hotels will often give some form of a discount for groups of 10 or more if you book directly, it is important to keep in the back of your mind that hotels are in the business to maximize their revenue on the rooms they book, having said that, working with an experienced travel coordinator, you will not only receive a better rate for you and your guest, you will also avoid the costly mistake mentioned in #2.

5) You can do it all yourself-But is it worth the risk?

Planned correctly, a destination wedding can truly be the wedding of your dreams. Unfortunately, we have heard of quite a few horror stories over the years from brides and grooms who chose to plan their wedding entirely on their own. Missed flights with no emergency numbers for support, hidden clauses in hotel contracts, leaving the couple with enormous financial liability, reservations being dropped by the hotel, forcing couples and their guests into a "2 star hotel in paradise." You name it, we've heard it.

Don't miss this special event

Whether your love is brand-new . . . or an ageless passion that has withstood the test of time, you'll embrace everything Sandals has to offer.

Don't Miss Our Sandals Presentation

Aug.13 from 4:30 - 7:00 pm

Ramada Plaza & Suites in Fargo, ND

Dreaming of a romantic destination wedding or honeymoon?

Don't miss this special event!

Our Certified Sandals Specialists and a Sandals representative will be joining us, to tell you how you can make your fantasy a reality.

Let us know you're coming. Register here.

Begin Your Happily Ever after at a Sandals Resort

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Join us for a Caribbean Night!!
Let us know your coming

Join us for a Sandals presentation

Begin your Happily Ever After at a Sandals Resort

Join us Aug. 13 for Details



Imagine your wedding pictures with the beautiful turquoise ocean as your backdrop and spending a week in paradise with your special someone. With 12 unique locations, no one does a wedding or honeymoon like Sandals Resorts. As an ultra all-inclusive romantic Caribbean resort for couples, Sandals is the perfect destination for weddings, honeymoons, vow-renewals, or a romantic get-away.

Join our certified Sandals Specialists & a Sandals representative from 4:30 – 7:00 pm at the Ramada Plaza & Suites in Fargo. Don’t miss this special opportunity to visit with a Sandals professional and learn how you can make your Sandals dream a reality.

Let us know you are coming...Register to attend.

Romantic Destinations For Your Honeymoon

Are you planning your honeymoon?
Having a difficult time deciding where to go?

Here is a list of some of the best places to go on a romantic vacation.

Fiji

Fiji

Tahiti

Hawaii

Paris

Italy

Rome

A Caribbean Cruise

Florida

A Sandals Resort

Bahamas

Greece

Belize

If your interested in planning a vacation at any of these
romantic destinations call your local travel agent.

If you live in the Fargo/Moorhead Area give Travel Travel Carlson Wagonlit a call.
701.492.5000 800.999.3688

They have honeymoon specialists on site and are very pleasant to work with.
Every agent does what they can to get you the lowest prices.

Romantic Things To Do In Chicago

Romantic Things To Do In Chicago

People looking to have a great time find themselves with a lot of interesting things to do in Chicago. For couples, Chicago is one of the best places in the United States where they can break away from the routine, unwind and have the quality time they have been wanting to have.

Chicago is home to numerous diverse communities, which are great fun to explore with someone special. Each one has a unique and rich culture they can call their own. If you want to get to know all of Chicago, the first thing you should do is to join the Chicago Neighborhood Tours. It is a guided walking tour, and is a very enjoyable to do as a pair when the weather is favorable.

Another great way to get to know Chicago is to have a taste of the local cuisine. If you are going to Chicago in the summer, one of the things you can do is check out the Taste of Chicago event in Grant Park. It is an annual gathering of more than sixty local restaurateurs serving both residents and visitors sumptuous Chicago specialties, ethnic and exotic cuisines, and the regular family-friendly dishes. Mark your calendars, June 27th until July 6th this year, for the biggest food festival in the Midwest!

In Chicago, you and your better half will find yourselves the chance to learn something new. For those with inclination to science, art, history, culture and the like, there are a lot of museums in Chicago that you can check out. If you are fans of the works of Frank Lloyd Wright, one of the most recommended things to do would be to join the Frank Lloyd Wright Architecture bus tour in Oak Park just fifteen minutes from Chicago.

Generally speaking, men love sports, women love shopping. Good thing Chicago has both to allow couples to compromise. In Chicago there are lots of sporting events, and some very serious shopping to be had. Next, cool off at the Chicago Park District for some down time with your spouse or boyfriend/girlfriend.

Choose a spot from one of the over 500 parks in the district and enjoy an a quiet picnic in the late afternoon.

Or you both can get neatly-dressed for a nice romantic dinner at either the Signature Room at the 95th located in the John Hancock Observatory or Seasons at the Four Seasons Hotel Chicago.

The best way to conclude your Chicago trip is to head off to the Funky Buddha Lounge for some drinks and the latest hot music. You might even get the chance to see your favorite Hollywood celebrities partying the night away in the dance floor. By the end of your trip, you will realize that, with all the things to do in Chicago, it is exactly the kind of escape you and your loved one really need.

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To learn of all the things to do in Chicago and plan your next trip, please contact your Travel Travel Carlson Wagonlit travel expert.

Expert Help for Honeymoon Travel

A honeymoon is one of the most memorable vacations a couple will ever take. Honeymoons are great not only because they provide time to relax after the excitement of a wedding, but because they mark the start of a new phase of your life.

To plan such an important personal milestone vacation, it makes sense to work with a professional who has expertise in honeymoon travel. A honeymoon travel expert can help you make important decisions about budget and destination. Knowing that an expert is handling the details can also relieve stress while you’re busy planning your wedding.

Your first step may be to discuss how much you want and can afford to spend on your honeymoon trip. This decision may be closely tied to how much time you can take for your honeymoon, as the time available might determine how far you can travel. Whatever your budget, a honeymoon travel expert can ensure that your honeymoon delivers good value and priceless memories.

Then, discuss the type of honeymoon you want. Rather than simply picking a destination, talk about what you want your honeymoon to be like. Should it be a quiet, secluded getaway, or a trip with a taste of adventure? Do you want food that’s familiar or exotic? Maybe you picture yourselves laying on a beach together, or strolling hand-in-hand among great works of art. At night, do you see yourselves cuddling by a fireplace, snuggling in a deck chair, or dancing the night away? After you describe the type of honeymoon experiences you want, your travel expert can help you select a destination and accommodations that match your wishes.

Some couples like to know which destinations are most popular with other honeymooners. Within the U.S., Las Vegas, New York City, Miami, Aspen and Hawaii are popular choices. Internationally, the Caribbean, Mexico, the Greek Isles, Italy and London are big with honeymooners.

Many honeymoon couples choose to take a cruise, which allows them to visit multiple cities or islands while everything they need, from fantastic food to spa treatments, is available on the ship. Of course, a honeymoon can be as simple as a weekend stay at a local bed and breakfast – you don’t have to travel far for a relaxing getaway experience.

As you plan your wedding, make time to talk with each other about your honeymoon dreams. Then, ­­talk with a honeymoon travel expert at your local travel agency who can make those dreams a reality.

The Playful Side of Romance - Breezes Resort

They say that when you're in love, it doesn't much matter where you are, as long as you're together. Maybe so, but just imagine what it'd be like to be together in love, in paradise. Because that's how you'll feel on a Breezes honeymoon.

Breezes Resorts sit on the best beaches anywhere, everywhere. And with spectacular locations in Jamaica, The Bahamas, Dominican Republic, Curacao and Brazil, wherever you choose to celebrate your special occassion you're destined to have the time of your lives.

Best of all, every Breezes Resort is Super-Inclusive, which means you're free to think only of each other and the love you share, without a moment's care for how you'll pay for those sunset cocktails on the beach.

So whats included?
All your meals - from burgers on the grill to lavish gourmet feasts.
All your drinks, including premium top shelf liquors
All your entertainment
Endless variety of land and water sports (sailing, snorkeling, kayaking, windsurfing, scuba diving, waterskiing)
Tipping is NOT permitted

The best part - Weddings are COMPLIMENTARY!

Weddings are their gift to you and include:
-wedding planner
-choice of location
-minister
-marriage license
-champagne
-wedding cake
-flowers
-music
-witnesses (As needed)

NEW BEACH WEDDING CHAPEL For couples wanting the most picturesque venue for their nuptials, Breezes Runaway Bay has created a new Wedding Chapel right on the beach. The Victorian inspired chapel provides the perfect setting, with spectacular ocean and beach views, for wedding or vow renewal ceremonies. With space for a number of guests and their entire bridal party, couples will enjoy beautiful memories and perfect photographs of their special day.

Rejuvenating Romantic Weekend Getaway to Key West, Florida

Key West is definitely the key to a great romantic weekend getaway. Located at the southernmost part of Florida, it is the perfect escape for every couple who wants to break away from the ordinary.

Although you can fly straight to Key West International Airport, choose Miami as a landing destination instead and begin your weekend getaway with a romantic drive along the
US1 (nicknamed The Overseas Highway) over the vast waters.

The drive gives you impeccable views of the ocean, and the wide variety of hotels, seafood restaurants, dive shops and boats that serve as a preview of how much of an amazing trip you are about to have.

Couples often prefer a quiet getaway for a romantic weekend. Make the most of each other's company by spending the whole day at the beach, lying on the sand or swinging on a hammock with good food and great drinks.

You can also take the seventy-mile ferry or chartered plane ride to the island of Dry Tortugas for an extraordinary diving experience, or simply enjoy the cool breeze brushing up your hair on a cruise ship. Dry Tortugas boasts a fort that was once used to protect American waters. Now you can take a guided tour around the fort, experience real cannons, and learn about the training regiment that soldiers used to endure on the island. If you aren't a certified diver, don't worry. You can also snorkel around the island and view some spectacular fish, coral reef, and underwater enchantments. Dry Tortugas is something that everyone should experience during their visit to Key West.

When you return from Dry Tortugas, spend some quality time walking around Key West. Enjoy strolling the palm tree-lined streets hand-in-hand with your spouse or boyfriend/girlfriend and watch the sunset. The view from the pier in Key West is said to have the best sunset in the entire world. From this point you can also see mansions that belong to the rich and famous who spend time in the keys.

Even if you aren't rich and famous, you can still find a great place to stay on your vacations. Spend your romantic weekend at the luxurious Marquesa Hotel right in the center of the historic district. Just in the same street, the Eden House offers the same historic atmosphere with a more affordable rate.

Lingering over local cuisine is one of the essentials of weekend getaways. On Duval Street, you will find many of Key West's top restaurants for your romantic dining. On this strip, restaurants have an area with porches where you can just watch the world go by over a sumptuous meal and a glass of wine. These restaurants serve seafood as their specialty with fresh catches from the surrounding waters, served in many different ways. If you want your fish raw, the Japanese Origami is highly recommended. Other top picks include the Seven Fish and Bagatelle for those who prefer their fish cooked. Also, you should try Key West's long time favorite, Sloppy Joe.

The night life is fun and exciting in Key West. If you enjoy large parties plan your romantic weekend getaway during spring break or in November. During spring break, resorts and bars throw parties and promise everyone in attendance a good time. November activities, on the other hand, include the Halloween costume parties and the Key West Power Boat Race. Water sport enthusiasts fly in to Key West every year to witness this event.

Key West is also famous for fine arts. Key West is said to be the haven of writers. Authors obviously draw inspiration from all the beauty the island possesses. Since the mood for this particular weekend getaway is romantic, visit the Ernest Hemingway Home and Museum and explore the very walls where Ernest Hemingway wrote his emotional novels.

Those fascinated with the underwater world can have a self- or guided-tour at the Key West Aquarium, which features diverse exhibits of sea life in the Florida waters. Check the Aquarium's daily schedule for feeding if you wish to have a close encounter with the sharks.

Key West has something for everyone....especially those who want to get married in a tropical paradise. There are many destination wedding options in Key West. Most of the deluxe resorts take care of every detail of a wedding to make sure the day is perfect. Most weddings in Key West take place on the beach. What a gorgeous backdrop!

It is the perfect vacation spot for couples to unwind and relish a romantic weekend getaway.

Most Popular Second Honeymoon Destinations

ASTA Identifies Popular Second Honeymoon Destinations
Published on: March 13, 2008


In its annual "Hot Spots for Summer" survey, ASTA polled 585 travel agency owners and managers to determine the most popular second honeymoon destinations and uncover other emerging travel trends for 2008.

According to respondents, Hawaii was the most popular second honeymoon destination with 24.4 percent share of the total response. While Hawaii can be more expensive than other destinations, respondents reported that money was less of a determining factor for couples who were taking a second honeymoon destination, compared to couples taking their first.

Cruising was ranked number two, with 11.6 percent share of the total response. Respondents routinely book cruises for second honeymooners because this type of vacation offers variety, convenience and, on-shore excursions, dining and shopping excluded, an all-inclusive package.

The third most popular second honeymoon destination, the Caribbean, also offers travelers endless options due to the number of islands that comprise this tourist-friendly oasis.

Jamaica and Cancun, ranked fourth and fifth respectively, rounded out the top five most popular second honeymoon destinations.

Although in the bottom half of the top 10, Europe, ranked number six, and Italy, ranked number seven, prove that interest in European vacations is still strong despite the current weakness of the US dollar.

With 3.5 percent share of the total response, Mexico claimed the number eight position. Tahiti, with 3.2 percent, and St. Lucia, with 3.0 percent of the total response, fell into ninth and tenth place respectively. For more information, visit http://www.asta.org/.

Romantic Weekend Getaway to Miami, Florida

By: David Reichman

Give yourself a nice break from the routine with your special someone on a romantic weekend getaway to Miami, Florida. Because of this generation's fast-paced and busy lifestyle, long vacations come very seldom. This does not mean, however, that quality time with your significant other is no longer possible. Take advantage of the post-winter deals on flights and accommodations and have a weekend getaway you and your honey need and want!

One of the best hotel deals that promises couples a romance-rekindling stay is at the Hyatt Regency Miami in Downtown Miami. With the Hyatt Regency Miami's Amour Romance package, you get to enjoy the usual incredible amenities the hotel regularly offers, plus a full breakfast, a bottle of champagne and a 2:00 pm-late checkout. So relax and take your time to make the most of your romantic weekend getaway with just each other's company.

A romantic weekend in Miami promises an elegant yet inexpensive getaway. Just like Boston, Miami has the Go Miami Card that you can purchase online. Get Go Miami Cards at a very low price before exploring the city and you will get free admissions to over 30 attractions, tours and cruises. Have a portion of your day exploring some of the historical and cultural attractions in Miami at the Museum of Contemporary Art, Historical Museum of Southern Florida, Miami Art Museum and more. Or you can go on cruises or tours such as the Island Queen Cruises, Miami Duck Tours or Palm Beach Princess Cruises. Take the time to visit Vizcaya Museum and Natural Gardens, one of the biggest attractions in Miami visitors frequent built by James Deering in 1916.

The main house and the grand gardens allow you to have a glance at the lives of the super rich during the 1920's.

Equally remarkable is the Deering Estate at Cutler, a three-building property with a hardwood hammock that represents Miami's landscape back in the day built by James Deering's brother, Charles Deering also in the early 1900's. Moonlight Canoe Tours are offered to couples during the nights when the moon is full - guaranteed romantic!

Romantic weekend getaways, of course, mean romantic dining opportunities for couples. In Miami, there is a long list of restaurants with a quiet, intimate and romantic atmosphere for couples. You can even get discounts from restaurants (as well as retail stores) with your Go Miami Card. You can choose to have a very succulent steak, pasta or even vegetarian dinner at the Rincon Argentino. Or you can have prime dry-aged steak and seafood in the very trendy and upscale ambiance of Prime Blue Grille.

Complete your romantic weekend getaway with a flight seeing over Miami, Florida. Get ready to fall in love with each other all over again with a Moon Over Miami Romantic Air Tour. Whether you are planning to get down on your knees to pop the question, or celebrating an anniversary, a birthday or other relationship milestone, this flight is something that will forever be etched in your memories and hearts. The Moon Over Miami Romantic Air Tour is tailor-made for couples who are celebrating something special, a bottle of champagne is even waiting for you on board. Cuddle up with your better half as you witness the sunset in Miami. The brilliant red hue cast on Biscayne Bay and the entire city, the purple clouds a little above you and the lights of Miami coming to life as darkness falls make the perfect scenario for two people in love.

If you are looking for more things to do, the friendly sunny weather in Florida and the very inviting beaches in the area allow you to bathe and bask under the sun the whole day and work on a darker skin tone while holding hands. Everything that can tug the heart stings of your special one can be found in Miami. That is why it is one of the best romantic weekend getaway destinations you can ever find!

Celebrate Your Endless Love at Sandals

Celebrate Your Endless Love at Sandals

Show your true love how much they still mean to you with a romantic vow renewal ceremony in paradise. Sandals resorts are located in Jamaica, St. Lucia, Antigua, and the Bahamas and are all-inclusive – making sure you experience everything you ever dreamed. Help yourself to gourmet dining, premium brand drinks, unlimited use of all amenities, scuba diving, and more without spending another dime.

When you renew your vows at Sandals you will receive:

• Services of an experienced wedding coordinator
• Marriage officer
• Bouquet for the bride
• Cake
• Commemorative Certificate
• One 5”x7” wedding photo
• Boutonniere for groom
• Champagne
  
  - Rekindle the romance with your spouse
  - Relive the most romantic day of your life
  - Revive your sense of adventure and exploration
  - Renew the most important vows you will ever make
  - Remind yourself how lucky you are to be married to your best friend
  
  To discuss all the opportunities available when it comes to renewing your vows, contact Travel Travel Carlson Wagonlit, your destination wedding headquarters. A romance specialist will assist you in planning the perfect vow renewal experience that you will remember for a lifetime.

Say “I Do” to a Destination Wedding

Say “I Do” to a Destination Wedding

Does the thought of “running away” to get married appeal to you, though you’ve also dreamed of a traditional ceremony with friends and family present? There is a way to combine the traditional and the adventurous in one wedding ceremony: a destination wedding.

In a destination wedding, the happy couple travels to an exotic location to say their vows. While a destination wedding requires some serious advance planning, there are a number of reasons why it can be a very practical choice.

For example, if your family and friends are scattered across the country, they must travel to attend your wedding. Why not ask them to travel to a fabulous vacation destination, where everyone can enjoy several relaxed days together?

A wide variety of possible locations means that a destination wedding can suit just about any budget. In fact, destination weddings can be more affordable than traditional weddings. Some of the most popular locations for destination weddings include Hawaii, Florida (think Orlando or Key West), Las Vegas, Mexico, the Caribbean and Europe. Getting married in conjunction with a cruise is also an increasingly popular choice.

A destination wedding may also be a good idea if you are so busy that you don’t know how you’ll find time to plan a wedding. Many resort hotels, tourist destinations and cruise lines have coordinators dedicated to helping guests arrange memorable weddings, down to the last detail. These helpful coordinators will also let you know what documents you and your fiancé should bring to meet local legal requirements for marriage.

If you choose a destination wedding, it’s important to give your guests as much advance notice as possible, especially if they need to obtain passports. In addition to helping everyone schedule and coordinate their travel, your travel professional can advise you on any other requirements for safe and convenient travel to your dream wedding destination.

DW SHOWCASE DOORPRIZE ANNOUNCEMENT

If you needed another reason to head to Travel Travel Carlson Wagonlit's Destination Wedding Showcase this May (which I doubt you did) I've got a great one for you.

Along with other great doorprizes, you can now enter to win

a 3- night stay at Secrets Capri Resort!

Travel Travel's

Destination Wedding Showcase and Seminars

May 13th

4:30 - 7:00

Multiband Tower - Fargo

For more information email swhiting@ttravel.com

Save Up to 50% on couples resorts

Book your trip between now and April 30th andyou can receive 50% off your stay at Couples Resorts.

Call your travel agent or Travel Travel Carlson Wagonlit to take advantage of this offer.

Complimentary first-class airfare upgrade

You can receive a receive a complimentary first-class airfare upgrade to Luxury Included™ Sandals Resorts in Jamaica or the Bahamas when you purchase a qualifying destination wedding package from the LIFESTYLE Collection featuring Romance offered by NWA WorldVacations.

Flying in first-class is the perfect way for you to start off your wedding at a Sandals Resort. You'll appreciate the comfortable seating, delicious cuisine, and premium beverages.
Book your destination wedding package by March 31 for select travel dates through December 18, 2008.

Contact one of Travel Travel's destination wedding specialist today!

Eight couples share ideas on how to make the most of traveling together.

Sometimes a honeymoon or destination wedding can be the first time a couple has traveled together. Situations can come stressful and tense without good communication and patience.

From cnn.com

Eight couples share ideas on how to make the most of traveling together.

Consider these tips to make sure your relationship survives your vacation.

1. Communicate
"Find your own phrase to say to support your partner when you don't have the privacy you want or when life on the road is getting you down. For instance, a simple 'Good morning' can mean 'I love you.' " John Mock and Kimberley O'Neil, authors, "Lonely Planet Hiking in the Sierra Nevada"

2. Stay amused
"Play silly games. Like 'Which movie star does that driver we just passed look like?' Such pointless fun alleviates the kind of boredom that sooner or later leads to pointless arguments." Jane and Michael Stern, authors, "Roadfood"

3. Indulge
"While traveling cheaply through Italy, Larry decided we should experience Positano as it was meant to be enjoyed. We checked into a nice hotel and had a totally elegant dinner. That bit of luxury made everything else better." Lin and Larry Pardey, authors, "The Care and Feeding of Sailing Crew"

4. Pace yourselves
"Six places in eight days is not interesting. When you slow down, you discover where you need to work together. Travel can be the renewal of a relationship." Jeffrey Alford and Naomi Duguid, authors, "Mangoes & Curry Leaves: Culinary Travels Through the Great Subcontinent"

5. Go solo
"You don't have to spend every minute together. On a trip to London, we set aside an afternoon to shop on our own for jewelry and music. After a few hours of exploring alone, it's fun to regroup and share your adventures." Paris Permenter and John Bigley, editors, Lovetripper.com

6. Do not disturb
"Different sleeping patterns may not be a problem at home, but when you're in the relatively confined space of a hotel room, they can make life hard. Bring earphones for watching television and eye masks for the light." Tim and Nina Zagat, founders, Zagat Survey

7. Chill out
"You have to learn to roll with the punches. If we're starving and driving each other crazy, and there's no restaurant for another 70 miles, we can either get a chocolate bar at a gas station, or we can stick it out." Jason Edward Hammel and Kori Gardner Hammel, musicians, Mates of State

8. Make special plans
"Create surprising little gifts out of the mundane: 'Honey, I rented us a car with a stick shift!' or 'Guess what, we're flying direct!' Your partner will then feel as if you've taken his or her preferences into account." Jessie Morgan-Owens and James Owens, photographers

Secret Secret, I've got a Secret

Secrets Resorts & Spas offers adults an extra measure of romance and sensuality in exquisite luxury settings. Immerse yourself in Unlimited-Luxury where everything is included: Elegantly appointed rooms and suites with 24-hour concierge and room services. Multiple gourmet restaurants and lounges serving premium beverages. Endless day and evening activities, all in spectacular settings.

Secrets Resorts are now offering....

Free Anniversary Nights!

Plan your wedding at Secrets Resorts & Spas and you will be invited back with complimentary nights for your anniversary.

Each complimentary* wedding at select Secrets properties in 2008 for a minimum 7 nights entitles the bride and groom to any one of the following sweet deals:

• 2 nights free return stay in 2009 for their anniversary (when staying at least 5 nights)
• 1 night free return stay in 2009 for their anniversary (when staying at least 4 nights)


• 25% discount on a return stay in 2009 for an anniversary planned at Secrets Maroma Beach Riviera Cancun or Secrets Silversands Riviera Cancun for at least 7 nights
  

Plus couples that are really ahead of the game can earn a third night when reserving their Secrets Capri wedding by Feb 29, 2008 to take place between August 15th and October 31, 2008.

If that's not enough, when you stay for seven nights, you will receive a special Secret gift.

Book the perfect wedding or honeymoon package and you will receive a silver framed photo of the memory of their choice shipped directly to your home.

So what are you waiting for? Book your honeymoon now by contacting the wedding coordinators at Travel Travel Carlson Wagonlit today to plan that special day.

*wedding is complimentary if couple stays 7 nights

Take the Plunge - Get married on a cruise ship!

Looking for something unique for your wedding day? Why not take the plunge and get married aboard a gorgeous cruise ship? Sail from port to port, discovering endless opportunies for adventure and excitement; or, relax and lounge by the pool, soaking up the warm sun.

Carnival Cruise Lines offers a variety of options for your perfect day.

Island wedding

Your destination wedding package includes

• Round trip transfers to wedding site for bride & groom only (Transportation not included in Cozumel)


• Traditional ceremony performed by local officiant


• Bridal bouquet with matching boutonniere


• Island or traditional music


• Sparkling wine & keepsake champagne flutes


• Wedding cake with keepsake cake topper


• Photography service

Island weddings can be performed in the following locations:
Barbados Cozumel Grand Cayman
Key West Montego Bay Ocho Rios

Shipboard Wedding

• Ceremony performed by a nondenominational officiant


• Bridal bouquet with matching boutonniere for the groom


• Sparkling wine & keepsake champagne flutes


• Wedding cake with keepsake topper


• Cake Cutting service and champagne toast


• Wedding March music and photography service

You may also select from packages that include everything from a simple open bar and hors d’oeuvres reception, to an elegant sit-down luncheon in your ship’s formal restaurant. Whatever your taste or budget, our professional wedding coordinators will help you design the ideal wedding package tailored to suit your needs.

Shipboard weddings can be performed while in the following ports-of-call:

Barbados Baltimore Canadian Waters
Cantalina Island Ft.Lauderdale Galveston
Grand Cayman Honolulu Key West
Los Angeles Maui Miami
Montego Bay Nassau New Orleans
New York Ocho Rios Pt. Canaveral
San Diego San Juan St.Thomas
Tampa Vancouver

Carnival Cruise Line Wedding

Have you ever thought about getting married on a cruise ship? Cruise ships offer a perfect vacation for everyone! Lounge by the pool and soak up the sun or head out on a shore excursion. You have the opportunity to visit several locations, or even several countries, all in one trip!

Carnival Cruise Lines offer onboard weddings

The shipboard wedding package includes:

• Ceremony performed by a nondenominational officiant
• Bridal bouquet with matching boutonniere for the groom
• Sparkling wine & keepsake champagne flutes
• Wedding cake with keepsake topper
• Cake Cutting service and champagne toast
• Wedding March music and photography service

Packages from just $800.

You may also select from packages that include everything from a simple open bar and hors d’oeuvres reception, to an elegant sit-down luncheon in your ship’s formal restaurant. Whatever your taste or budget, our professional wedding coordinators will help you design the ideal wedding package tailored to suit your needs.

Shipboard weddings can be performed while in the following ports-of-call:
Barbados

Baltimore

Canadian Waters

Catalina Island

Ft.Lauderdale

Galveston

Grand Cayman

Honolulu

Key West
Los Angeles

Maui

Miami

Montego Bay

Nassau

New Orleans

New York

Ocho Rios

Pt. Canaveral
San Diego

San Juan

St.Thomas

Tampa

Vancouver

Destination Wedding Showcase

Tuesday, May 13
4:30PM - 7:00PM
Multiband Atrium & Auditorium
2000 44th St. SW Fargo, ND 58103
Register to Attend

Why not spend your wedding day in paradise? Come check out this one-of-a-kind event in the Valley! Talk to travel experts about the many benefits of a destination wedding and the options that are available. Find out what you can do before you leave for your wedding by visiting with local businesses on site that tailor their services to destination wedding couples. Listen to 15 to 30 minute seminars about destination weddings and learn how to make your special day worry-free. Call Travel Travel Carlson Wagonlit at 800-999-3688 for more information or visit www.ttravel.com. Can’t wait to see you in the Multiband Tower May 13th!

Sandals- your destination wedding dream come true

Sandals Resorts offers some great options for destination weddings. Sandals Resorts are located on four tropical islands, with 12 different resorts to chose from. All their resorts are all-inclusive, making your destination wedding a worry-free event.

Locations include Jamaica, St. Lucia, Antigua, and the Bahamas. You are sure to find your dream come true with Sandals Resorts.

Sandals Antigua has earned the title of "world's Most Romantic Resort" and "World's Leading Honeymoon Resort".

There are several different destination wedding packages to choose from. The following are some options:

The WeddingMoon package is a great deal and includes:

• Personal wedding consultant


• Picturesque wedding location


• Preparation of documentation


• Certified copy of marriage license


• One 5"x7" wedding photograph


• "Just Married" T-shirts


• Caribbean Wedding Cake


• Marriage officiant


• Sparkling wine & hors d'oeuvres reception for bride, groom, and two guests


• Honeymoon dinner for bride & groom


• Continental breakfast in bed


• Bouquet and Boutonniere

The Twilight Wedding Package Includes:

• Private transfer from Airport to Resort


• Pedicure for Bride & Half Hour Massage for Groom


• Personal Wedding Consultant


• Preparation of Wedding Documents


• Marriage Officer to Perform Twilight Ceremony


• Picturesque Ceremony location at Twilight*


• Bouquet of Nine Fresh Roses(Bride’s selection of red, white or pink)


• Complementary Boutonniere for the Groom


• Single Entertainer for One Hour(Guitarist, Saxophonist or Steel Drum Player based on island availability)


• Reception for Two under the Stars


• Chef’s Selection of Caribbean Inspired Hors d’Oeuvres (For Bride, Groom and two guests)


• Champagne & Two Keepsake Champagne Toasting Flutes


• Two-tiered Wedding Cake


• (12) 5x7 Photographs in Elegantly Appointed Album


• Professional Videography of Ceremony & Reception (standard DVD)


• Breakfast in Bed the Following Morning


• His-n-Hers “Sandals” or “Beaches” Flip-Flops & “Just Married” T-Shirts


• Marriage Certificate


• Rose Petal Turndown with Scented Bath for Two

Everything you need for your destination wedding is on site at Sandals. Candlelight Dinners on the beach can be arranged, butler service, photography, flowers, a personal dressing attendant, and everything else you may need to pamper yourself for your special day!

Destination Wedding Pictures

A destination wedding has one HUGE perk over a traditional wedding....you're in your own personal paradise! Destination Wedding pictures will be treasured forever and, in many people's opinions, are much more beautiful than pictures from a traditional wedding.

Many people get married in Las Vegas. This couple decided to get married right in front of the Las Vegas sign!

This picture also comes from Las Vegas. Not all destination weddings that take place there are in cheesy wedding chapels! Many luxury hotels cater to destination wedding parties and offer gorgeous scenery for the bride and groom's special day.

Beach weddings are extremely popular, especially in locations such as Florida, Mexico, Jamaica, Fiji, and Hawaii.

Many beach weddings are held just as the sun is setting over the horizon. The sky comes alive with brillant colors that are reflected off crystal clear waters while you pose for your picture.

Traveling abroad for a wedding is not uncommon. This couple decided to get married in Greece. Their wedding album will be filled with great pictures of them in front of historic ruins and traditional Greek architecture.

Europe has many cities that are considered some of the most romantic in the world. Why not escape to Paris and marry the love of your life in front of the Eiffel Tower before exploring the rest of the historic city and marveling in its romance.

Canada's Ice Hotel is a modern marvel! Couples here surround themselves with hand-crafted ice sculptures. The entire wedding chapel and hotel is constructed out of ice and will leave guests in awe. Specially designed wedding attire is an option for the colder climate weddings.

Destination weddings don't fall short on colors. Flowers are always a big part of any wedding ceremony and the cost is usually included in your resort stay!

Remember to have your bouquet preserved so you can forever remember your big day!

How a Destination Wedding Can Save you Money

At first thought, one would assume a destination wedding would be much more expensive than a traditional wedding at home. However, the exact opposite is true, with destination weddings saving a couple over $23,000 on average. The cost savings just add to the many other reasons to have a destination wedding. Here are where the cost savings come into play:

• You don’t have to send out as many invitations – fewer guests mean that you save more
• All-inclusive packages include the costs of food and drink
• The cost of the wedding could be included in the cost of lodging
• No need to pay for a church
• No need to pay for decorations
• Your travel agent has the ability to negotiate lower rates based on the size of your group

Average Cost of a Traditional Wedding in Fargo, ND

Wedding Attire
$ 2,331
Wedding Ceremony
$ 2,259
Wedding Favors & Gifts
$ 1,003
Wedding Flowers
$ 1,761
Wedding Jewelry
$ 1,848
Wedding Music
$ 852
Wedding Photography & Video
$ 3,299
Wedding Reception
$12,675
Wedding Stationery
$ 758
Wedding Transportation
$ 367
Honeymoon
$ 5,000
Total
$32,153

The Average Cost of a Destination Wedding

Wedding Attire
$ 750
Wedding Favors & Gifts
$ 1,003
Wedding Jewelry
$ 1,848
Wedding Music
$ 852
Wedding Photography & Video
$ 2,000
Wedding Stationary
$ 400
Flights to Destination Wedding
$ 1,100
5 Nights All-Inclusive Resort
$ 2,000
Total
$ 9,101

Wow! What would you do with your saved $23,000?

Take another vacation?
Put a down payment on a new house?
Buy a new car?
Have a baby?
Pay off school loans?

Top Wedding Destinations

Top Wedding Destinations

Hawaii
- Oahu, Maui, Kauai, Big Island

Caribbean
- Jamaica, Dominican Republic, Bahamas

South Pacific
- Tahiti, Bora Bora, Moorea, Fiji

Mexico
- Cancun, Riviera Maya, Puerto VallartaLos Cabos

Bermuda

Las Vegas

Lake Tahoe

Top Ten Reasons to Have a Destination Wedding

10. Imagine the Pictures

Your gorgeous wedding pictures will be the talk of the town and your kids will never believe you were ever so cool.

9. Anything Could Happen

Resorts and destination wedding locations are known for throwing in extra surprises for the bride and groom.

8. No Need to Decorate!

Paradise comes with beautiful sunsets over the ocean, mountain views, and sailboats passing by. There is no need for cheesy lights and fake floral wall hangings.

7. It isn’t Just Another Wedding, It is an Event

There are over 2 million weddings a year in the United States. Make your wedding stand out and become an event your friends and family look forward to. Your event combines the joy of your wedding, along with the excitement of a vacation.

6. You Don’t Have to Invite the Johnsons

There are always one or two guests a couple would rather leave off the guest list. By having a destination wedding you can easily omit names from the guest list without hurting any feelings.

5. Stress Free is the Only Way to Be

After the ceremony you and your new spouse don’t need to hurry to grab luggage, drag it to the airport, wait in the security line, and sit in a plane for hours. You will already be at your dream honeymoon destination, ready to relax the moment after your wedding.

4. No Need for Bridezilla

Destination weddings take away the stress of having to plan your own traditional wedding. Our experienced destination wedding specialists will plan every detail of your amazing trip down to the color of the umbrella in your drink.

3. No Home Court Advantage

If the groom’s family has to travel 10 hours while the bride’s family has to travel 10 blocks, guests can become upset. With a destination wedding, everyone has to travel and is on common ground.

2. Lower Price Tag

The average price tag for a traditional wedding is $26,300 while, on average, a destination wedding totals $15,500. All-inclusive destination weddings save time and money.

1. You Deserve Paradise

A destination wedding brings a lifetime of memories of that moment when you are gazing into the eyes of the one you love saying “I do” while the cool ocean breeze invigorates your senses and the sounds of the waves hitting the sand brings you goose bumps. That perfect moment will never be forgotten.

Welcome!

Welcome to my blog specifically designed to inform you about destination weddings! Please let me know if you have any questions about destination weddings. I will be posting new information every week so keep checking back!