A Guide to Elopement and Destination Weddings

If you are concerned about the added stress or cost of a wedding ceremony, elopement is a natural alternative. Many couples relieve themselves of the burden of a traditional wedding by going to a romantic destination and having a simple private ceremony. The economic factor is clear in this case because the wedding destination is also the location for the honeymoon.

Here a few elopement and destination wedding locations inside the US and abroad.

The Southern US

In terms of a destination to elope, North Carolina is one of the most underrated. The Outer Banks of the Carolina Coast is a popular destination for travelers who love the beach but hate the over-crowding. There are several beaches and seaside resorts to from which to choose. You also have many options in planning the ceremony. From a catered event to a romantic exchange of vows at sunset, there is something to fit your budget.

The scenic Smokey Mountains of North Carolina also offer many event planning companies who specialize in elopement. They offer accommodation packages featuring cottages and suites while also encouraging their clients to bring as many guests to the ceremony that they would like.

The Northern US

The Pocono Mountains are one of the most romantic destinations in the Northeastern US. If your wedding is an intimate elopement or an elaborate ceremony, the Poconos is an ideal getaway for love and romance. There are three Caesar's Pocono resorts; Cove Haven, Paradise Stream and Pocono Palace. Cove Haven is an intimate resort on Lake Wallenpaupack. Their suites offer a split level design with a king sized bed in the sunken bedroom. Paradise Stream caters to the younger, hipper crowd. Their suites offer a 20 square foot glass and tile shower for two and a heart-shaped whirlpool bath. The country-club style of Pocono Palace makes it the most popular. It features a 32000 square foot entertainment and sports center. Their suites feature a cathedral window for a panoramic view of the grounds.

The Western US

Northern California is a perfect elopement destination for couples who have always dreamed of getting married in a romantic vineyard. Most ceremonies are held in gazebos of private gardens. Nappa Valley offers excellent food and wine in addition to romantic cottages that may also accommodate your guests. The awesome scenery of Lake Tahoe in Northern California is also a great romantic getaway. There are lakefront wedding chapels with very affordable packages. Emerald Bay is a secluded location on the edge of a cliff located only 30 minutes from the nearest hotel.

Puerto Rico

Some of the most amazing beaches in the world are in Puerto Rico. There are many hotels, resorts and spas available to host your wedding. In the northeastern part of the island there is a six-story fortress built by the Spanish explorers in the 1540's called El Morro. It is one of the most attractive wedding destinations in Puerto Rico. There is also a botanical garden in the heart of the rain forest called El Yunque which is uniquely popular for wedding ceremonies.

Jamaica

The sights and sounds of Jamaica along with its storied tradition are not to be underestimated as a memorable location for your destination wedding. From the perfect white sand beaches to the cascading waterfalls to the majestic mountain ranges, the breathtaking natural scenery of Jamaica is a classic and magical location for your ceremony. There are highly rated resorts in Montego Bay, Negril and Ocho Rios. Be sure to inquire about tours and excursions offered by the local wedding planner authorities.

Jade Mountain, St. Lucia

The perfect marriage of modern amenities and classic charm is Jade Mountain in St. Lucia. With over 600 acres of beach front, this futuristic resort is inspired by organic architecture. Passion does however have a price. This location is probably at the top of the list in terms of cost. They do offer a complimentary wedding with a minimum five day reservation, but the room rates begin at $1150 per day. Keep in mind, Jade Mountain does not do dozens of weddings everyday. Their goal is to make you feel special on your special day. Afterward, for your honeymoon, there are plenty of day and evening activities. There are soft sand beaches, immaculate coral reefs, scuba diving and snorkeling - windsurfing and sailing. They have a 5 star restaurant with all food grown, fished and harvested locally.

Be sure to check the marriage license policies of the destination that you select. There could be long waiting periods, required documents or tests that need to be conducted prior to the ceremony. Also be sure to research international travel and document policies when leaving the country to get married. Finding the right location is the first part in planning a perfect elopement or destination wedding.