Many couples choose destination weddings because it cuts down on the
hassle of planning. However, that doesn’t mean that destination weddings can’t
be just as personal and customizable as any local ceremony, or that they can’t
follow popular trends that will make the day that much more special. With these
destination wedding trends for 2020, your wedding will be the perfect day you
always imagined!
1. Off-Resort
Weddings
One popular trend we’re seeing at Romantic Planet Vacations
is the desire for off-resort weddings. All-inclusive resorts are charging more
and more for their wedding packages, and an off-resort ceremony is one way to
cut back on cost. By finding a local venue at your destination, you will also
have a more intimate ceremony, as some resorts have no limits to the amount of
weddings they do in a day. You don’t want to worry about another bride stealing
your thunder! We can arrange to have your group bussed to the unique venue,
where you can either have the ceremony before being bussed back to your resort,
or you can stay and have your reception off-site as well. You can find
off-resort beaches, restaurants, clubs, or other venues in Mayan Riviera, St.
Lucia, Jamaica, and Dominican Republic.
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Perfect Off-Resort Location: Alux Restaurant in Mexico
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2. New Destinations
While tropical locations like Mexico, Dominican Republic,
Cuba, and Jamaica have long been favourite destinations for Canadians, we’re
seeing a larger variety of locations with our couples. Unique destinations like
St. Lucia, Barbados, Costa Rica, Italy, Ireland, Thailand, and Bora Bora are on
the rise, as are River Cruise weddings. These unique locales may cost a little extra,
but not by much! While the typical all-inclusive beach destination costs around
$2,000 per person for air, hotel, and transfers, you can find great deals for
European destinations ranging around $3,000 to $4,000 per person. This might be
the perfect solution for a couple looking for a more mature, unique feel with a
more travel-experienced guest list.
3. Cultural
Experience
Another trend we’re seeing is couples incorporating more of
the local culture into their wedding ceremonies. Whether that means including
Mayan customs such as traditional chanting, drumming, and dancing, being
married by a Shaman at your Mexican wedding, or having traditional cigar
rollers at your ceremony, many resorts are offering couples a more unique
experience. This is a great way to blend your own traditions with those of the
destination of your choosing. If you’re going to have a destination wedding,
you might as well experience everything they have to offer, right?
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Mayan Ceremony at Ocean Riviera Paradise in Riviera
Maya
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4. Larger Groups
While destination weddings can be quiet, intimate affairs,
that doesn’t have to be the case. Though the average group size for a
destination wedding is 28, many venues can accommodate much more than that. You
can find beautiful spaces that can hold up to 70 to 100 guests, so long as the
price is right for your friends and family. An added bonus to having larger
groups is that the more people you have, the lower the price.
5. Boho-Chic Design
A very popular trend we’re seeing is a boho-chic theme for
weddings. Many resorts have on-site wedding planners who will work with you
before you arrive to make sure every aspect of your day goes smoothly. This
includes determining the theme and colours. We’re hearing from a lot of wedding
planners that boho-chic elements like macramé decorations, neutral colours with
a splash of brightness, and geometric design elements are all big trends this
year.
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Boho-Chic Theme at Occidental at Xcaret Destination
Resort
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6. Photo Booths
Photo booths are a popular trend that shows no sign of
slowing down. Whether you get married at home or abroad, this fun feature is a
great way to help your guests remember your beautiful day. Get creative with
backdrops, props, and come up with your own wedding hashtag so you can see all of
the fun pictures on social media.
7. Rooftop Ceremony
One great thing about destination weddings is that they
offer so many beautiful locations for couples to have their ceremony. While
beach-side and ocean-front will always be popular choices, we’re seeing an
increase in demand for more unique venues. Many resorts offer
beautiful rooftop patios or venues so you can say your vows while standing
in the clouds.
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Rooftop Wedding Terrace at Majestic Mirage Resort,
Punta Cana
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Your perfect day will be that much better if you let
yourself be inspired by these destination wedding trends for 2020!
If you’re ready to start planning your own destination
wedding and want to learn more about your many on and off-resort options,
please contact Romantic Planet Vacations at 1-866-247-8123 or weddings@romanticplanet.ca. They have been specializing in destination
weddings and honeymoons since 2004.
