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cvincent@travelsavers.com (Christine's Travel;) — Wed, 19 Jan 22 16:27:00 +0000

Do You Want Access to the Coolest Events While Traveling?

When you travel do you ever wonder how other people get tickets to private places, local sporting events and activities? Next time you are on vacation immerse yourself in the local culture. Your travel professional has access to the world’s largest inventory of exclusive; private sightseeing opportunities, sporting events, concerts, theater tickets and other types of events.

How To Find The Perfect Resort For Your Wedding

cvincent@travelsavers.com (Christine Vincent) — Wed, 21 Jul 21 16:31:25 +0000

1. Take out a piece of paper.

Give one to your guy too. Write down your top three requirements for your wedding experience. Do you prefer a barefoot vibe? Or did you always imagine yourself as a bride in a grand ballroom? Is a formal dinner your top priority or do you prefer to savor the local cuisine? Next, each of you should outline your ideal destination. Have you always wanted to get married in a jungly locale or are you all about the water? Does he absolutely need to be near a golf course? And are historic attractions important to you? Then whittle down your hotel needs: Is service the most important part of your equation? How about a spa or yoga? Do you absolutely insist on having a variety of restaurants and cuisines or is it more about the activities? You may also want to each put down three absolute deal breakers (it’s not family-friendly or the pool is small, for example).

2. Compare your lists.

Highlight the similarities as a guide to choosing your ideal location. Much like couples and their weddings, countries, islands, states and resorts have distinct personalities. Some places are more action and adventure-centric; others have a more raucous party vibe. There are hotels that focus on haute cuisine, while others highlight the spa. As with most decisions, start with the broad strokes (country or island, for example). Take into account travel time and accessibility for you and your guests. Also think about how language and cultural differences might affect your planning, as well as the legal requirements for getting married. Some countries mandate waiting periods and on-site medical tests, so that is something you’ll need to add to your time frame and budget equation.

3. Choose a resort that speaks to your wedding vision as a couple.

Make a list of a dozen or so and send out query e-mails to the resident wedding coordinators. Ask the basic package-offering questions, availability in your desired time frame and the kicker—cost. Some resorts require minimum spending on food and beverage and/or room nights. Clarify all that in this initial correspondence. Ask about accessibility to the airport, major cities and any wedding-weekend excursions that you may be considering. You’ll also want to ask basic weather-plan questions (like what happens to outdoor events in the case of rain?) and if the hotel requires or accepts wedding and travel insurance. If childcare or elderly needs are important for your guests, ensure that these points are covered in these early e-mails. Also, clarify the hotel’s policy on using outside vendors. Ask about site inspection trips and planning opportunities.

Planning Ahead - Destination Wedding

cvincent@travelsavers.com (Christine Vincent) — Wed, 21 Jul 21 16:31:24 +0000

Saying “I do” to the perfect destination wedding has never been easier!

So you’ve decided that a typical wedding just isn’t your style. Instead, you’d rather tie the knot in a beautiful and intimate beach setting with only your closest family and friends in attendance, celebrating this new chapter of your lives with you. We couldn’t agree with you more!

Plan Ahead

Planning ahead – anywhere from eight to 10 months – for a destination wedding in Mexico or the Caribbean will allow you plenty of time to find a resort, settle all the details, and perhaps calm any nervousness you may have. Remember that certain times of the year, including holidays, may be more expensive, so be sure you know what your overall budget is and try to stick to it.

Once you have a date set for the nuptials, you and yours should discuss with your local travel professional those places where you’re most interested in getting married. Your destination selection should be a favorite vacation spot, a dream location, or one where you and your guests will be most comfortable and well-cared for.

You can even choose several destinations that you like and think will make a great backdrop to your event. Depending on how involved you would like your family and friends to be, don’t hesitate to ask them for wedding destination ideas. After all, they will be putting in their own money and time to celebrate the big occasion with you. If you already have a few places picked out you can even discuss your picks with them. And if you’re unsure of just where to go, your travel professional can help you find a range of destinations and resorts that match the vision you have for your wedding and well as your budget.

Do make sure that the destination you ultimately choose is readily accessible from the cities your guests will be traveling from. If you select a destination where you don't have direct flights to, or requires multiple connections, this may deter some of your guests from joining in the festivities.

Keep in mind that your local travel professional is your best source for helping you plan and book a destination wedding. It’s important to know that not all resorts or wedding packages are created equal, and the differences between them can be many. Only an experienced travel professional will know which resorts and wedding packages best fit your vision of a romantic wedding and honeymoon.

"Wedding Photos" by Azchael is licensed under CC BY 2.0

Planning a Destination Wedding?

cvincent@travelsavers.com (Christine's Travel;) — Wed, 21 Jul 21 16:31:24 +0000

You’re engaged and planning to say ‘I do” on a tropical island some thousands of miles away from home, where do you start?

START PLANNING NOW
Planning ahead – anywhere from eight to 10 months – for a destination wedding in Mexico or the Caribbean will allow you plenty of time to find a resort, settle all the details, and perhaps calm any nervousness you may have. Remember that certain times of the year, including holidays, may be more expensive, so be sure you know what your overall budget is and try to stick to it.

Once you have a date set for the nuptials, you and yours should discuss with one of our Travel Consultants those places where you’re most interested in getting married. Your destination selection should be a favorite vacation spot, a dream location, or one where you and your guests will be most comfortable and well-cared for.

Keep in mind that our Travel Consultants are your best source for helping you plan and book a destination wedding. It’s important to know that not all resorts or wedding packages are created equal, and the differences between them can be many. Only an experienced travel professional will know which resorts and wedding packages best fit your vision of a romantic wedding and honeymoon.

Destination Wedding Check List

cvincent@travelsavers.com (Christine Vincent) — Wed, 21 Jul 21 16:11:34 +0000

6 to 18 months

Decide on the budget.
Select your Destination Wedding Specialist.
Select your wedding style.
Decide on size. Just the two of you or with friends and family?
Choose your wedding site.Small resort or Large resort?
Select your destination and hotel.
Select a date.
Request pricing.
Finalize the booking.
Obtain the legal requirements for the country.
Send out invitations to guests that include:

Destination and hotel information
Price with deposit amounts and date of final payments
Your Destination Wedding Specialist’s contact information
Select bridal attire

4 to 6 months

Decide on à la carte options at your resort and confirm with your wedding specialist.
Follow up with guests who have not booked yet.
Register to a gift registry and buy your rings.

2 to 4 months

Finalize wedding attire.
Look into excursions for your group.

1 to 2 months

Final fitting for bridal attire.
Shop for holiday wear.
Confirm all details with your Destination Wedding Specialist.

Upon arrival

Meet with your hotel wedding coordinator to go over documentation and final selection of flowers, cake and location.
Walk around the complex to scout out the best photo locations.

Wedding Day

Relax and enjoy your day!

New Zealand

anabelunga@gmail.com (Anabel Fernandez) — Wed, 21 Jul 21 16:11:01 +0000

Although a compact country, each of New Zealand’s 29 regions is distinct in character, making for a one-of-a-kind honeymoon experience.

One stop to consider is Rotorua, which is located in the heart of the North Island and also serves as the gateway to other central destinations. Known for its mud pools, shooting geysers and natural hot springs, Rotorua is an ideal spot for relaxing. World-class mountain bike trails, horseback riding, zip lining and fishing cater to those looking to be a bit more active, and are also one of the best ways to see the region’s wildlife. Travelers can also experience Maori culture here, the best place being on a marae (tribal meeting grounds), where Maori speeches and singing can be heard, carved meeting houses can be seen and a hāngi feast cooked in earth ovens can be enjoyed.

Another noteworthy stop is Queenstown, which is made famous by its stunning scenery, golf courses, wineries and slew of outdoor pursuits. The adventurous will enjoy the region’s sky diving, canyon swinging, heli-biking and river rafting, or for something romantic, be sure to visit the region’s wineries to sample award-winning wines, dine at some of the many restaurants, go on a hot air balloon ride at dawn or relax at a day spa. Lord of the Rings fans will also recognize many of the locations of Middle-earth!

New Zealand official website (Canada)

New Zealand official website (US)

Ireland

anabelunga@gmail.com (Anabel Fernandez) — Wed, 21 Jul 21 16:11:01 +0000

Known by many as ‘The Emerald Isle,’ Ireland gets its name because of its stunning green hills and gorgeous landscapes. Its beauty, coupled with the fascinating history, is what makes it such a popular destination.

It doesn’t get more romantic than a castle, and Ireland boasts several. Dine in a famous historic one like Ashford and enjoy strolling the beautiful grounds. Or, enjoy lunch in one of the picture-perfect villages such as Cong or Lismore. And make sure to stop at one of the many vibrant pubs and learn the art of drinking a Guinness.

A not-to-be-missed experience is The Ring of Kerry, a 110 mile road to Killarney that boasts some of the country’s most beautiful scenery, including ocean views from the cliff tops. Alluring scenery also awaits travelers on many of the legendary golf courses, including Ballybunion, Lahinch and Royal County Down.

Ireland official website

Venice

anabelunga@gmail.com (Anabel Fernandez) — Wed, 21 Jul 21 16:11:01 +0000

Venice is one of the world’s most romantic cities and is known as ‘La Serenissima,’ or ‘The Most Serene.’ In a place where everyone travels by boat, no honeymoon would be complete without a gondola ride on the Grand Canal, where you can learn about the palaces and churches that line it, or simply be serenaded. Visit Piazza San Marco, home to the Basilica di San Marco and be entertained by lively street performers and take a walk across the Rialto Bridge, one of many that link the city’s 100-plus small islands. For a day trip, consider a visit to Murano, renowned for its Venetian glass or Torcello, which boasts beautiful picnic spots for an intimate lunch.

The abundance of water in Venice provides some of the best seafood in Europe. Some noteworthy restaurants include Locanda Cipriani, Antiche Carampane, Osteria Alle Testiere and Antico Martini.

New York

anabelunga@gmail.com (Anabel Fernandez) — Wed, 21 Jul 21 16:11:01 +0000

New York City lives up to its name as the city that never sleeps. Boasting award-winning cuisine from just about every corner of the world, Broadway shows, world-class shopping, sporting events, countless museums and more, it’s no wonder the Big Apple is a popular destination.

Perhaps one of the most iconic and romantic activities in New York City is the experience of a cozy horse-drawn carriage ride through beautiful Central Park. A selection of museums is also within close proximity, including the Metropolitan Museum of Art, American Museum of Natural History and the Guggenheim Museum. Or, if performance art is of interest, honeymooners can head to the theater district and pick from a number of Broadway musicals and dramas. In the same area, travelers can spot the famous Times Square New Year’s Eve Ball, made entirely of Waterford Crystal. Fashionistas will appreciate the stores on Fifth Avenue and the surrounding streets. Located in the center of the city, the best shopping runs from midtown to 60th Street, and includes the finest domestic and international retailers in the world.

Every type of cuisine is yours for the taking in New York City. Grab lunch from one of the many food trucks for a taste of street food, or enjoy a casual bite at hot spots including Eataly and Shake Shack. Some more romantic options include One if By Land, Two if By Sea, Gramercy Tavern, Daniel or Aureole. Reservations are recommended.

New York official website

Paris

anabelunga@gmail.com (Anabel Fernandez) — Wed, 21 Jul 21 16:11:01 +0000

Known by many as the ‘city of lights,’ Paris is comprised of 20 arrondissements, or small villages. One of the biggest challenges here can be selecting a hotel! On the Right Bank sits the city’s grandest hotels, or if you cross the Seine to the Left Bank, you’ll find lots of historic charm.

The city is home to some of the finest museums in the world, including The Louvre, which is also a historic monument and the Musée d’Orsay, which features one of the largest Impressionist exhibits and is housed in a former rail station. But no trip to Paris is complete without a stop at the Eiffel Tower. Be sure to take a picture from the second floor, which offers stunning panoramic views of the city, before heading straight to the top. For an unforgettable dining experience, visit Le Jules Verne for dinner before leaving the tower. Other noteworthy restaurants include Spring, Le Meurice and Epicure.

Paris official website

United Kingdom

anabelunga@gmail.com (Anabel Fernandez) — Wed, 21 Jul 21 16:11:01 +0000

The Groom in a Kilt?

Getting married in England and Wales

There are special rules that apply to citizens of other countries who want to marry in the UK.

Unless you are, or are marrying, a UK citizen, there are a number of requirements you must fulfill before you can marry in England or Wales. This may include waiting and residency periods of at least 22 days before the wedding in England or Wales:

7 days in a registration district before filing notice of your intention to marry (what used to be called "posting the banns"). If you are not UK citizens, you may both need to be present for this.
15 days after notice has been filed before the wedding can take place.

These rules, along with the documentation and visa requirements for getting married in England and Wales can be found at the Gov.UK website.

Getting married in Scotland

The rules for getting married in Scotland are slightly different. For one thing, there is no residency requirement. You do need to file notice of your intention to marry but you don't have to be present at the registrar's office to do it. And, in Scotland, couples who are 16 years old can be married without parental consent - making eloping young lovers a romantic - if increasingly rare - option. Find the rules and requirements for getting married in Scotland at the General Register Office for Scotland website.

Puerto Rico

anabelunga@gmail.com (Anabel Fernandez) — Wed, 21 Jul 21 16:11:01 +0000

The All-Star Island

When it comes to your special day, we don’t just strive to do weddings better; we aim to make your wedding the most magical and unforgettable experience of your life.

Puerto Rico is tailor-made to host a destination wedding, and the perfect escape for a honeymoon. We offer an unbeatable choice of venue, from the elegant majesty of Old San Juan, to an idyllic beachfront setting, to the verdant backdrop of a rainforest. If you want, we can even get you married in a spectacular subterranean cavern!

Getting married in Puerto Rico is now easier than ever, and far less cumbersome than many other destinations. While these often require inconvenient residency and medical requirements, you only need to comply with your hometown requirements to tie the knot at the Puerto Rican venue of your choice.

Old San Juan

Imagine getting married in one of the oldest cathedrals in the western hemisphere, a converted Carmelite convent, or a historic fortress. The undeniable romance and cosmopolitan sophistication of Old San Juan make it the most popular choice for a wedding in Puerto Rico.

Secluded Beaches

Many brides dream of an intimate sunset ceremony on a pristine beach. We’ll help you choose the perfect spot from among our 300 beaches.

Hotels

All of Puerto Rico’s resort hotels have facilities that cater to weddings, and many offer elegant ballrooms, a variety of indoor and outdoor venues, and an expert staff to take care of all the details.

Know Before You Go - Legal Requirements - Click HERE

Puerto Rico Travel Expert Program - Click HERE

Courtesy of www.seepuertorico.com

Mexico

anabelunga@gmail.com (Anabel Fernandez) — Wed, 21 Jul 21 16:11:01 +0000

A Reason It's Number Una!

Planning your dream wedding can be hard work, just when what you want is to relax and enjoy the process with your loved one. Let us take a load off your mind: browse our hand picked selection of wedding and honeymoon destinations in Mexico, along with overviews of the attractions and hotspots of each area. We also include a list of wedding planners at each location, so you can rest assured those stubborn organisational details are under expert control.

Make your wedding an occasion that will stay with you for the rest of your life. Whether your preferences are on the formal side, or you prefer to let your hair down; whether you're in search of something natural, rustic and exotic, or smooth, well-run and professional: Mexico has it all. If it's a beach wedding you have in mind, the hotels of the Mayan Riviera make the perfect setting for an exotic Caribbean wedding, but offer all the comforts of luxury hotels and full catering. If you're planning something more simple and traditional, why not make your vows in a colonial church or temple in the beautiful cities of Guanajuato or Puebla?

The wedding or honeymoon of your dreams has a lot to do with your interests and lifestyle: Are you and your partner on the formal, conservative side? or you prefer a casual, no frills life style? Are you always in search to be involved, use your creativity and think out of the box? or you want someone else to take care of every arrangement while you can continue with other important project? Whichever your personality and tastes, Mexico offers a wide array of destinations, venues, and wedding style that is just right for you and your partner.

Know Before You Go - Legal Requirements

Click HERE for a detailed list of marriage requirements.

Las Vegas

anabelunga@gmail.com (Anabel Fernandez) — Wed, 21 Jul 21 16:11:01 +0000

Suckers for Romance

From ceremonies with kitsch to high-style affairs, Las Vegas offers a wide array of unique wedding venues. What can we say? We’re suckers for romance and we’ve got the wedding packages to prove it.

Learn more here

Las Vegas is known as much for its weddings as it is for its casinos. With an average of nearly 100,000 marriage licenses issued annually, Las Vegas is recognized as the world's wedding capital. Whether it's eloping on a secret rendezvous, or planning an elaborate ceremony for hundreds of your family and friends, there is no place quite like Vegas to make it official.

Part of the allure of getting married in Las Vegas is that it offers the ultimate freedom of choice, ranging from Elvis presiding over a 24-hour, drive-through chapel to a lavish soirée at one of the world's premier resorts. In addition, Las Vegas has minimal requirements and no waiting period, making "quickie" weddings an attractive possibility.

Chapels

Nearly every major casino resort in Las Vegas has its own unique wedding chapel, offering simple celebrations and elaborate affairs for brides and grooms of every taste and budget. From the romantic Terrace of Dreams at Bellagio to the storybook charm and old world elegance at The Venetian, weddings in Las Vegas are magical. In addition to resort chapels, Las Vegas also offers an array of stand-alone chapels for a distinctively different experience.

A Special Memory Wedding Chapel - Located on 4th Street in downtown Las Vegas, A Special Memory Wedding Chapel features a world-famous Drive Thru window for "quickie" weddings. Ceremonies presided over by Elvis impersonators are also available. A Special Memory also offers traditional weddings and exciting adventure weddings at nearby scenic locations.

Chapel of the Flowers - Voted "The Best Wedding Chapel in Las Vegas 2010," by the Las Vegas Review-Journal poll, Chapel of the Flowers has been creating dream weddings for more than 50 years. With three chapels to choose from, Chapel of the Flowers specializes in vow renewals and customizable traditional wedding ceremonies.

Graceland Wedding Chapel - Home of the original Elvis Ceremony and right on The Strip, Jon Bon Jovi, Billy Ray Cyrus, Jay Leno, Johnny Depp, Salma Hayek and numerous others have walked through these doors to make it official. Featuring traditional or Elvis themed weddings, Graceland offers a quaint and unique wedding chapel with over 50 years of history, stellar service and affordable packages.

The Little Church of the West - Since 1942, it has been one memorable day after another at the legendary Little Church of the West. Betty Grable, Judy Garland, Mickey Ronney, Dudley Moore, Cindy Crawford and Richard Gere and many others have exchanged vows here. Listed on the National Registry of Historical Places, The Little Church of the West, originally built as part of the Last Frontier Hotel, has been moved three times but still maintains its original integrity.

A Little White Wedding Chapel - Known around the world as one of the most famous places to get married, A Little White Wedding Chapel is the site of numerous celebrity weddings including basketball star Michael Jordan and his wife-to-be Juanita Vanoy, Frank Sinatra and Mia Farrow, Bruce Willis and Demi Moore and many more.

Vegas Weddings - The mission of Vegas Weddings is to surpass every couples' expectations, regardless of their budget. Since opening in 2001, Vegas Weddings offers convenient, hassle-free, affordable, yet elegant weddings. From traditional chapel weddings to Valley of Fire or Lake Mead Cruise packages, Vegas Weddings offers something for everyone.

Viva Las Vegas Weddings - Viva Las Vegas Weddings are experts on themed and fantasy weddings. Fantasy weddings include anything from gothic to Egyptian to beach party. From the Fairy Tale Wedding Package to the Blue Hawaii or Pink Cadillac Wedding Packages with Elvis, any bride can create her ideal day.

Fun Facts

Most popular wedding days in Las Vegas: Valentine's Day and New Year's Eve

02/14/09 - 1,796 Marriages were performed
02/14/10 - 1,239 Marriages were performed

Most popular wedding dates in Las Vegas: Dates with repeating numbers (for example, 1/01/01, 2/02/02, 3/03/03). One of the most popular wedding dates of all time, 7/07/07, was a big day in Las Vegas due to its implied luckiness (it's the ultimate jackpot!) and the fact that it landed on a Saturday.

07/07/07 - 4,450 Marriages were performed
10/10/10 - 3,090 Marriages were performed

Las Vegas Wedding Resource -

Joni Moss, Nevada Wedding Association - joni@lvweddingconnection.com

Know Before You Go - Legal Requirements

Proof of age (driver's license, passport or birth certificate)
Must have a social security number; foreigners who exchange wedding vows in the U.S. may need additional or special documentation to guarantee the marriage is recognized in their country
Parental consent and court order (if under the age of 16)
No blood test
No waiting period

Jamaica

anabelunga@gmail.com (Anabel Fernandez) — Wed, 21 Jul 21 16:11:01 +0000

Welcome to the island of One Love

Tying the knot is a piece of cake on the island of All Right!

Welcome to the island of One Love where we specialise in turning big dreams into romantic realities. Let us help you plan your special time.

Why here?

It’s easy to see the appeal of getting married in a tropical paradise; warm waves, dreamy beaches and sunsets more romantic than you can imagine. You should say I Do in Jamaica. Here’s why:

It’s private. If you’re looking for a meaningful time away with your special someone and those closest to you, escaping to the island of All Right is the way to go.
We’re prepared for you. Being one of the most romantic spots on earth means that we know exactly what’s needed to make your dream day, come true.
It’s a wedding and honeymoon, all in one. Make your dreams come true when you can extend your wedding into an adventurous, romantic and luxurious honeymoon, starting your lives together in pure bliss.

Plan with confidence…

We love the idea of people coming here for one of the best days of their lives. Several resorts will make all arrangements for you. Special wedding packages can include performance of the ceremony, taxes, transportation, wedding cake and flowers. We may be an easy going island but we don’t see why you should compromise on any of your special plans. For more information on getting everything ready for your dream wedding visit: http://www.jamaicabridalguide.com/

Choices abound…

In Jamaica, we specialise in turning big dreams into romantic realities. There are several non-denominational marriage officers who can perform ceremonies at a location of your choice. Let us help you plan an enchanting and memorable wedding experience complete with a picturesque backdrop. Whether you've envisioned exchanging vows on a white sand beach, a cliff overlooking turquoise waters or even in an exotic garden, Jamaica is the ideal tropical portal to your 'happily ever after'.

Know Before You Go - Legal Requirements - Click HERE

Courtesy of http://www.visitjamaica.com

Italy

anabelunga@gmail.com (Anabel Fernandez) — Wed, 21 Jul 21 16:11:01 +0000

A Wedding in Italy? - Congratulazioni!

Getting married in Italy

There are many gorgeous locales in Italy, from the beautiful Amalfi Coast to the glamour of Como Lake in Northern Italy.

There is no residency requirement to get married in Italy. After a couple declares their intent to marry, banns (announcements) are posted, notifying the public of the marriage. The length of time that these banns are posted varies, however, and is often waived for noncitizens.

Non citizens marrying in Italy must appear before the civil registrar in the city in which they will marry at least three days before their wedding. They must bring two witnesses. At this time, the couple declares their intention to marry and provides legal documentation for their marriage. If neither party is an Italian citizen or resident and speaks Italian, a translator is mandatory. Once the couple has declared their intent to marry, banns are posted in the commune, or town hall. The length of time the banns, or marriage announcements, are posted varies from one day to several weeks depending on the city. In many cases, banns are waived or shortened when neither individual is Italian or a resident of Italy. Couples should contact city hall for details.

Individuals marrying in Italy must submit a Nulla Osta form -- along with a small fee -- that verifies that they are free to marry. They must sign the form in front of a consular officer. Both the bride and groom also must obtain an Atto Notorio, an oath sworn in the presence of two witnesses and an Italian consul, which states that "there are no legal impediments to the marriage according to the laws to which the person concerned is subject to in their country of citizenship." Both the bride and groom must provide their passports and birth certificates. In cases of remarriage, the divorce decree or death certificate of the former spouse must be provided as well. Documents issued that are in English must be translated into Italian and authenticated by the Italian Consulate. Couples should contact the Italian Consulate in the city in which they will marry to verify documentation requirements, as there are some variances among consulates.

Hawaii

anabelunga@gmail.com (Anabel Fernandez) — Wed, 21 Jul 21 16:11:01 +0000

Unforgettable Hawaii Weddings

What will be your most unforgettable Hawaii moment?

Whether it's popping the question overlooking Kauai's timeless Kalalau Valley or promising your love in a glistening seaside chapel, Hawaii offers six islands with some of the most idyllic settings for weddings, receptions, and honeymoons.

Picture yourself renewing your vows overlooking Waikiki Beach, Oahu, as surfers ride the waves in the distance. Or let the rugged beauty of Molokai carry you and your beloved away to a simpler time. On the island of Lanai, spend your days on a white sandy beach or in a romantic lodge. On the sunny coast of Wailea, Maui, oceanfront receptions sparkle in the evening light. And then there's Hawaii Island, where the striking contrast of black lava and deep blue ocean are as timeless as your love.

In this place of picture-perfect celebrations, you'll also find planning professionals to assist with every detail, along with photographers, florists and caterers. Many hotels and venues also offer a comprehensive range of services, so you can be at your most radiant.

Know Before You Go - Legal Requirements: To learn more about weddings and legal requirements in Hawaii, browse the links below:

Courtesy of www.gohawaii.com

France

anabelunga@gmail.com (Anabel Fernandez) — Wed, 21 Jul 21 16:11:01 +0000

Say Oui to France!

Getting married in France

French marriage laws are straightforward and apply to foreigners and French nationals alike. A couple must:

Be at least 18 years of age. However, there are exceptions to the rule, which can only be approved by a local procureur de la République (Crown Prosecutor.)
Not be related in any way to their partner.
Not be married at the time of union (be it in France or abroad)
Reside in France or have been a resident for at least one month from the announcement of the banns.Each person must provide the following:
- A form of identity
- Proof of current or future residence.
- Information relevant to the witnesses’ (such as personal and professional details)
- A full birth certificate- Required within three months if issued in France- Required within six month if issued abroad.
- Should a pre-nuptial agreement have been drawn up, it must be signed by a notary.
- Foreign nationals should enquire at their local Mayor or consulate on what forms of documentation might be required.

Courtesy of www.rendezvousenfrance.com

Dominican Republic

anabelunga@gmail.com (Anabel Fernandez) — Wed, 21 Jul 21 16:11:01 +0000

With a mixture of culture, nature, scenic beaches and accommodating resorts, as well as very good air connections, the Dominican Republic is highly rated as a wedding and honeymoon destination.

Marry with the blessing of ceremonies performed in the historic churches in the Colonial City of Santo Domingo. Or choose the backdrop of the aging stones of Altos de Chavón’s St. Stanislaus Church. The memories will endure.

Or forego the formality of traditional church weddings for the romance of the beach resorts of Puerto Plata, Samana, Punta Cana, La Romana, Juan Dolio or Boca Chica. Consider the marinas and large restaurants with their great views as another option for a wedding by the sea.

When the sun sets it will be time to tie the knot. Guests will admire the sun, watching the last rays of bright yellow as it sets in the horizon to a backdrop of pinks and orange. The newlyweds will flirt with each other.

Destination weddings work for either large or intimate ceremonies. The hotels offer packages specially designed for all tastes and budgets. At the hotels, experienced wedding planners will help the bride work within the budget, choose the sites, plan makeup and hair on the wedding day, choose flowers, wedding cake, photography, videos, music and of course, the banquet.

The services also ensure that your paperwork is processed correctly and papers sent to the right entities. Take note that while the requirements are the same, the process may vary depending on the justice of peace. The wedding planner will assist couples in finding a justice of peace or priest and will follow through with the sending of the marriage certificate.

Take note that civil services are performed solely in Spanish, but translators can participate.

If you will not be using the services of a wedding coordinator, have a friend or relative visit the specific civil registry office whose services you will be using to confirm the specific requirements of the judge that will be acting at the ceremony.

The Dominican Republic is a member of the La Hague Apostille Convention. Therefore, all non-Dominican official documents need to be apostilled by the issuing country’s foreign affairs ministry. Canadian citizens are not required to present apostilled documents. The documents need to be translated and legalized by a Dominican Consulate. It usually takes 3 to 4 weeks after the ceremony for the issuing of the legal notarized marriage certificate from the Justice of Peace. This will be mailed to the bride and groom.

Know Before You Go - Legal Requirements

The following paperwork is required to be submitted before the Oficialía del Estado Civil (Civil Registry Office): for the preparation of your civil marriage certificate. Allow three months for the processing. It is recommended that scanned documents or photocopies be sent in advance and the originals brought for the final processing. Note that the documents need to be translated into Spanish by an official translator and legalized by the Dominican consulate.

Original passport with photocopies of the photo page and the latest entries into the country.
Sworn declaration before a notary public of being single and eligible to marry, known as a Single Status Affidavit.
Original Birth Certificates.
If previously married, the Divorce Certificate or Death Certificate, if applicable.
Adoption Certificate, if applicable.
Parental Authorization, if applicable.

Two or more witnesses with valid passports. Relatives cannot be witnesses.

Roman Catholic Church weddings

Priests at Roman Catholic churches in the Dominican Republic can perform legal weddings for both locals and foreigners. In keeping with church rules, priests will not officiate weddings on the beach, but they may celebrate a wedding inside a closed area of the resort. For a wedding at a church, a mutually convenient date needs to be set and will depend on church availability. In addition to the same standard documents required for a civil wedding, a Roman Catholic Church wedding will require authorization from the local parish in the couple’s country of residence. Also required are baptismal, communion and confirmation certificates and church certificate of annulment (if applicable). Catholic ceremonies have the same legal implications as a civil marriage and the issuing of the marriage certificate follows the same procedure.

Catholic Churches where tourists frequently marry include:

Iglesia de San Estanislao in Altos de Chavón (La Romana)

Courtesy of www.godominicanrepublic.com

Bermuda

anabelunga@gmail.com (Anabel Fernandez) — Wed, 21 Jul 21 16:11:00 +0000

Because Bermuda is close to home, but feels like a million miles away.

Because Bermuda provides the perfect backdrop to the start of your lives together.

Because Bermuda offers you a unique set of options tailored for your day.

Because you deserve Bermuda.

Adopt Their Customs

Bermuda's otherworldly charm is something that makes their island feel remote and magical. Harness some of that magic when you adopt one of their customary wedding traditions that happen only on Bermuda's shores.

Kiss under a moongate - the horseshoe shaped arches found in gardens all over the island - will, according to local legend, assure a long and happy life together. Walk through one of their lovely limestone archways, make a wish, seal it with a kiss and look forward to a joyful and prosperous future.

Traditionally, Bermudians serve two cakes at their weddings, one for the bride and one for the groom. The bride's three-tiered fruitcake is covered in silver icing to symbolize their fruitful marriage, while the groom's single-tier pound cake with gold icing signifies prosperity. Both cakes are adorned with tiny cedar saplings that the couple may plant somewhere special on the island to embody their growing love.

With no car to hire on the island, brides and grooms often follow the example of local couples who travel to and from their weddings by horse-drawn carriage.

Know Before You Go - Legal Requirements - View the Bermuda Wedding Guide HERE for more information.