Your Wedding Guide to Nantucket

Population: 10-50,000 residents

Known for: Beautiful beaches, historic homes and gardens, and lighthouses

Located 30 miles south of Cape Cod, Nantucket was originally fishing and whaling port. Repopulated after the Civil War by many wealthy New Englanders, the island is now a popular tourist destination. Most of the pre-war buildings are restored, and the entire island was designated a National Historic Site. The famous lighthouses on the island are also well-noted.

While the property values of Nantucket are among the highest in Massachusetts, the beaches are also a sight to behold. Most of the beaches are public, and are famous for their pristine beauty.

The historic and quaint charm of Nantucket weaves in with the modern resources and services needed to make your wedding or honeymoon all you've ever dreamed of.

Transportation

As Nantucket is an island, you arrive by either boat or air. The traditional passenger and vehicle ferry services of Steamship Authority varies throughout the year, but during the peak spring and summer seasons, the ferry picks up as late as 9.00 P.M. For information on rates and times, check out http://web3.steamshipauthority.com/ssa/. Other ferry and private boating services are also available throughout the year.

For those wishing to travel by air, Nantucket offers a variety of charter airline services to fit your needs and budget. For those looking for a truly luxurious airline experience, Tradewind Aviation may be just what you are looking for. You can find out more at http://www.tradewindaviation.com.

While on the island, there are a number of taxi, car rental, shuttle, bike and private chauffer services available. The Nantucket Regional Transit Authority offers an island shuttle service for tourists and islanders alike. The rates are quite reasonable, and you can download a map online of the routes at http://www.shuttlenantucket.com/guide/index.html.

Lodging

Whether planning a large wedding and reception or just your fabulous honeymoon, you can be sure to find an answer to your lodging needs. Nantucket offers affordable beach cottages, charming bed and breakfasts, historic mansions, and modern hotels complete with the amenities you need to make your stay spectacular.

The luxury and history of the Jared Coffin House make it a wonderful place for both a wedding and honeymoon destination. Dating back to the mid 1800's, the house was originally built as a family residence by Jared Coffin, one of the most successful ship owners of his time. The inn can accommodate smaller weddings, and the offers fabulous cuisine, personalized service, and various rooms to suit your needs. You can find out more online at http://www.jaredcoffinhouse.com/.

Wedding Services: Catering, Photography, Cakes, and Reception Information

Regardless of where your wedding will be in Nantucket, you can rest assured you will be armed with local wedding experts ready to take on your day. Gourmet catering is available from many professional catering companies, and there are numerous restaurants that offer in-house dining for large parties and catering services as well. You may also find the local vintner's expertise to be the finishing touch.

What is a beautiful wedding without a perfect cake? You won't find out as you have a plethora of experienced bakeries to choose from in creating the cake of your dreams. The Nantucket Bake Shop, a local favorite for pastries and coffee, has over 40 years combined experience of spectacular wedding cake creations. Check out their online gallery and website for more information: http://www.nantucketbakeshop.com/weddingcakes.html.

Several photography services are available for weddings and receptions, and Zofia Waig specializes in weddings and receptions. Her website offers wedding proofs and contact information: http://www.zofiaphoto.com/weddings.html.

Your florists, reception entertainment, and reception venues are covered on Nantucket too. The island also offers a tuxedo rental and several shops for dressy attire. For those needing beauty services, Tresses and The Day Spa is the perfect place for pampering and preparing for the big day. Check them out at http://www.nantucketspa.com.

For those looking for a religious ceremony, Nantucket offers several churches and synagogues. The beach is also a popular site, as well as the historic landmarks of the Grant Point Lighthouse and the Brant Lighthouse.

Of course, wedding consultants and planners are available in Nantucket to help make your big day a success. Check out Nicole Whelden at http://www.uniquenantucket.com for more information on planning your wedding in Nantucket.

Massachusetts Marriage Licensing Information

Here are the basics:

• All people who marry in Massachusetts must have a marriage license issued in Massachusetts.
• The fee for a Nantucket marriage license is $15.
• The marriage license is good for 60 days from the filing in Massachusetts only.
• A three-day waiting period is required starting from the day after the bride- and groom-to-be file their intention to marry. This includes weekends and holidays.
• All applicants must be at least 18 years of age.
• Same-sex unions are also under the same regulations, but require medical certificates for both parties. There is also the issue of honoring the valid marriage outside of the state of Massachusetts, so check with your state's legal code for the necessary information.
  

For more information on the laws and requirements, please go to http://marriage.about.com/cs/marriagelicenses/p/massachusetts.htm.

Nantucket is truly a unique and unforgettable location where all of your wedding dreams can come true. Come celebrate a beautiful beginning on an island where the past and your future will truly come alive. For more information on Nantucket, Massachusetts, please visit the ultimate website on your Nantucket wedding: http://www.nantucketweddings.com/