Sometimes two worlds collide in the perfect way, and that explains why destination weddings are increasingly popular. Summer is when people’s thoughts already turn to vacation dreams. Then, there is just something inherently romantic about watching a couple say their vows in a unique location, surrounded by family and friends who share their love of travel. When this perfect world takes place during the ideal summer months, the stars align to create conditions ideal for stunning backdrops, exotic settings and ease of scheduling.
Statistics show it’s a very good time to be in the destination weddings industry. More than 25% of engaged couples say they are planning a destination wedding, according to Research and Markets’ Destination Wedding Global Market Report. The industry packed in a whopping $28 billion in global sales last year, and 2024 looks to top $36 billion.
“As we slide back into wedding planning after the pandemic recovery, couples are feeling less pressure to hold big traditional church weddings with lots of guests,” said Kimberly Richmond, Global Director of Sales for Destination Weddings by ALHI. “We are seeing enormous interest in booking tropical locations during the summer months when destinations are less crowded and venues may be offering special perks or lower costs.”
With so many events in the planning stages, summer dates are already being considered at resort destinations around the world for weddings in 2024, 2025 and 2026. Couples see the summer months as an opportunity for as many of their guests to attend as possible, added Richmond.
“They see the opportunity for their guests to enjoy a vacation while attending their wedding in a desirable resort location.”
Several hot spots around the world are on top of the list for summer weddings right now for beach and sun lovers.
Here are five destinations sure to create lasting summer wedding memories.
Los Cabos, Mexico
Perched at the tip of Mexico’s Baja California Peninsula, Los Cabos is a stunning location famous for year-round sunshine, sandy beaches and a playfully casual lifestyle. Destination weddings held in Los Cabos take full advantage of these coastal attributes and can be safely planned outdoors on the sand, on a pool deck, at a grassy event venue or even indoors. From casual beachy nuptials to elaborate productions with live animals, Los Cabos can handle the spectrum in style.
Los Cabos also offers a collection of properties ideal for the wedding couple – and their guests – to enjoy. Grand Fiesta Americana Los Cabos All-Inclusive, Nobu Hotel Los Cabos and the One&Only Palmilla are all fantastic options here.
Bali, Indonesia
With a remote and exotic atmosphere far from the hustle and bustle of daily life, Bali offers a laid back, tropical ambiance in a relaxed tropical setting. JoAnn Gregoli, owner of Elegant Occasions by JoAnn Gregoli, calls Bali the perfect spot for a smaller, more intimate wedding designed to include a couple’s closest family and friends.
“Bali is not only a fantastic wedding destination but also the perfect honeymoon spot,” she said. Newlyweds can enjoy romantic getaways to secluded beaches, luxury spa treatments and adventurous activities like surfing, diving and exploring cultural sites.
Most wedding venues in Bali are secluded and romantic, such as The Apurva Kempinski Bali in Nusa Dua.
Miami
Miami offers a vibrant melting pot of cultures, flavors and tropical flair in a variety of settings. From country clubs to contemporary resorts to unique beachfront venues, the greater Miami area lures couples who seek an exciting destination for their nuptials and wedding festivities.
Oniki Hardtman, Founder of Oh Niki Occasions, said “Miami, Florida, truly has it all when it comes to being the perfect location for your destination wedding. In this location, we can create a variety of experiences that truly feel like natural extensions of the couple’s lifestyle.”
With so many options to choose from, planners can do well by considering Hotel AKA Brickell, InterContinental Miami, Mayfair House Hotel and Garden, Trump National Doral Miami and The Biltmore. In Miami Beach, add Eden Roc, Fontainebleau Miami Beach and Nobu Hotel Miami Beach to the short list.
Hawaii
Hawaii offers consistent, pleasant weather year-round, making these tropical islands an attractive choice for couples looking to avoid the uncertainties of seasonal weather, said Gregoli. The early or late summer months in the Hawaiian Islands are sometimes more uncrowded, which is also a plus for booking hotel spaces and airfare. From small, quiet garden venues to large ballroom spaces, Hawaii offers destination weddings a wide range of offerings in size and budget.
“Hawaii also offers a picturesque backdrop for weddings with its pristine beaches, lush landscapes, and breathtaking sunsets,” stated Gregoli
When considering the Hawaiian Islands for a destination wedding, world-class options include the Halekulani, Prince Waikiki and The Kahala Hotel & Resort on O’ahu. And don’t forget the Turtle Bay Resort in Kahuku, The Royal Sonesta Kaua'i Resort on Kaua’i and Fairmont Orchid on Hawaii.
Florida Keys
The Florida Keys are some of the most remote spots in the U.S., and couples can feel truly like they are saying their vows in a faraway destination. The tropical waters surrounding the Keys have lured visitors with their romantic call for well over a century, and the area has serious historic credentials to prove it.
“The laid-back, tropical island ambiance of the Keys creates a romantic and relaxed setting ideal for weddings,” said Hardtman. Luxury yachts, fresh seafood, colorful flowers and incredible coral reefs combine to offer destination wedding guests strong reasons to put their toes in the sand.
To tap into this Florida Keys beach paradise, Ocean Key Resort & Spa, Little Palm Island Resort & Spa and The Marquesa Hotel on Key West are ready to welcome couples and their guests. Hawks Cay Resort on Duck Key invite wedding parties to join together for a truly special island experience.
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