Hawaii - Romance in the Islands of Aloha

As one of the oldest languages, Hawaiian is a beautiful, flowing collection of words and phrases that captures the natural beauty of the islands with melody, hidden meanings and wonderful mysteries. A special language is needed to describe Hawaii, for Webster's words cannot adequately portray the palm trees on the coast of Oahu backlit and ablaze by the setting sun, let alone the endless black sand beaches of Kalapana, the dominant rainforests across the Big Island or the cascading waterfalls that prance over Molokai's volcanic rocks.

Yet the Hawaiian language contains no word for romance. While some say Eskimos have over 20 words for snow, Hawaiians should have over a hundred words for romance considering the islands' idyllic surroundings, luxurious hotels, celebrated restaurants and relaxing spas. Even without the definitive word, Hawaii stands alone as the tropical beacon of romance, dedicated to the secrets and songs that stir the heart.

Romance and paradise go hand-in-hand for couples in Hawaii, defined by moonlit walks on the beach where only palm trees hear your whispers, clear ocean views from the balcony of your suite and leisurely horseback rides in the surf. The Islands of Aloha add a special backdrop that is simply unavailable anywhere else.

Small wonder that Hawaii is the number one dream destination for honeymoons in the world. It comes down to timing, for any time of the year is perfect for a romantic visit according to knowledgeable travel agents. Well versed in the ways of aloha, travel agents combine experience in finding the best air and hotel rates with extensive knowledge of the islands to give you peace of mind long before you set foot in paradise.

Peace of mind is important to newlyweds, for some weddings can be as stressful as they are joyous. Nothing relieves wedding stress more than the melodious rush of the warm Pacific waters surging around your ankles as your feet delightfully sink into the moist white sand. Nothing is more relaxing than lying in an over-sized hammock steps away from your bungalow, waiting for the sun to slide below a crisp horizon. Hawaii is as therapeutic as it is romantic.

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

701-492-5000

1-800-999-3688

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.

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!

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

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!