If you’re newly engaged and already feeling the stress of wedding planning, you may be thinking an elopement is more your style. Eloping is the perfect option for the laid-back couple who just wants to celebrate with one another, and perhaps who’d rather throw a small get together with family and friends after the fact.
Now, if you’re thinking that a local courthouse is your only option, that’s where you’re wrong! Destinations around the country and the globe are encouraging couples to escape and say “I Do” at a place that can double as the perfect honeymoon paradise!
Since you won’t be paying for a large guest count, why not splurge a little on a luxury resort experience, like the Runaway Bride and Groom package the Ritz Carlton, South Beach offers. Complete with a beach-front ceremony, bridal bouquet, officiant, photography, wedding cake and a one night stay, it’s the perfect option for those of you that like one-stop shopping and quick getaway with all the bridal bells and whistles.
Maybe you’d rather set sail on an exotic cruise where you can experience multiple destinations in one romantic trip. Carnival Cruise lines offers a package that includes a bouquet, boutonniere, officiant, photography and wedding cake at the on shore or off-shore location of your choosing. And the best part is – they do all the planning and heavy lifting.
Prefer a glass of wine over a pina colada? Ponte Family Winery in Southern California boasts 310 acres of vineyards and gardens for you to elope to. Check out their package that includes a vineyard garden ceremony, bride and groom cottages for getting ready, and an officiant. Then end the celebration with a “Valentine’s Dinner for Two” at their restaurant, complete with a butler, four course meal and live entertainment. Bump up your experience a level by considering the “Estate” which includes an overnight stay at a local bed and breakfast, too.
Stress-free and full of romance, unexpected elopement destinations may just be the answer to your wedding dreams.
