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Destination Wedding Tips

With UK wedding costs often spiraling out of control - some put the average of a UK wedding at £20,000 - having a Destination Wedding ("wedding abroad") has become an increasingly attractive option for many budget savvy couples. For these couples, the wedding abroad option brings only benefits: a chance to escape the mostly glum UK skies, enjoy a holiday with friends and family and - most importantly - a chance to begin their happily-ever-after in a place that is as beautiful as their love.

Yet embarking on a destination wedding can seem like leaping into the unknown for many couples, so it is important to keep these handy tips in mind:

Testimonials:

Even if your venue is abroad, do ask them for testimonials of people from the UK who you can talk with (in addition to the glowing testimonials on their website). It makes all the difference knowing that prior couples not only loved their wedding at the location - but are willing to be contacted by future couples!

In addition, British ex-patriot wedding planners and designers often live in destination wedding locations. Make use of this resource! These planners and designers have local knowledge and experience alongside a British drive and passion that will ensure your wedding exceeds your expectations.

Wedding Webshow:

Whilst destination weddings do give you more control of your guest list, there are unfortunate occasions when loved ones will be unable to attend due to the wedding being abroad. However, friends and family who cannot travel with you need not miss out on the action! The best destination wedding venues have facilities which allow couples to beam their wedding - live and in real time - to a password protected website for family and friends to watch at home. This is a wonderful way for those unable to travel to the venue to feel included and part of the fun!

Hotel/Off Site Venue:

Marrying outside of chain hotels can give couples and their guests the opportunity to really experience the beauty and vibrancy of the country and culture that they are in, rather than the "tourist machine" of a large hotel. Small boutique venues give couples the option to marry in private, secluded locations away from the maddening crowds and without the risk of other tourists stumbling into their wedding photographs. Your guests will also be impressed that you have found such a quaint gem!

Communication:

With modern communication there is no need to feel out of touch with your wedding venue, coordinator or designer. Ensure that a personal Wedding Consultant is included as standard by your venue and that they may be contacted via email, live web chat, webcam and telephone. With an attentive and responsive Consultant - you'll forget that you are in different countries!

Having a destination wedding is a wonderful way to add a unique twist to the start of married life. Congratulations and best of luck with your decision.

These article has been kindly supplied by Hummingbird Hall, Jamaica. Hummingbird Hall is the home of boutique weddings in Montego Bay, Jamaica. Please visit their website at www.HummingbirdHall.com

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