Best Places for Destination Weddings | My Romantic Travel
Maldives Wedding

Be it a wedding or a renewal of vows, Maldives offers the perfect destination for couples and here are some reasons why it’s ideal for a new chapter of love.

Honeymoon
Honeymoon | Image by Roberto Nickson via Unsplash

Private Island Resorts

The chance to celebrate your special day on a private island is not to be missed and is offered by resorts here the likes of OBLU SELECT Lobigili which has one just for couples! The best thing is, that such properties will take care of all the planning as well as decorating the venue and setting up the ceremony; afterwards, you can look to stay at an overwater pool villa which adds to the romance.

Idyllic Settings

When you opt to have a wedding or renewal of vows at the best resorts in Maldives for couples, you will get the chance to choose from diverse enchanting settings. Of course, a beach with a decorated area and an aisle of sand beside the Indian Ocean during sunset is a popular choice. For something different, some resorts will offer to host the ceremony on a heart-shaped sandbank offering the ultimate seclusion!

Memorable Ceremonies

It’s not just the settings that are distinctive but the ceremonies too. Some resorts will offer a dedicated ceremony master who will ensure things run smoothly; aspects like a wedding cake-cutting ceremony, a bottle of Champagne to celebrate the occasion, local snacks, and a renewal of vows certificate can be offered too. Properties may even provide a specially curated wedding gift hamper as well!

Unique Honeymoons

After the ceremony, couples can look forward to unforgettable honeymoons; you can savour an intimate candlelit dinner on the beach, while some resorts will additionally offer a romantic photoshoot and a special “floating breakfast” in the pool of a villa! Other highlights can include spa rituals for couples, sunset or full moon private cruises and movie nights on the beach under the stars.

Maldives

For the ultimate honeymoon destination, couples will be hard-pressed to find a finer destination than the Maldives and here are some compelling reasons why!

Good morning from your favourite honeymoon island destination in the middle of Indian ocean,
Good morning from your favourite honeymoon island destination in the middle of Indian ocean, | Image by Ibrahim Asad’s PHotograp via flickr

Private Island Getaways

Amongst the unique allures here is the chance to stay at a resort on its own private island that offers sublime seclusion and serenity. Such properties feature beach villas, though newlyweds should look to alternatively try an overwater villa for a unique and intimate experience. Ideal options include OBLU XPERIENCE Ailafushi which as one of the best Maldives all-inclusive resorts also offers a package with dining delights, unlimited drinks, selected non-motorised water sports and more.

Romantic Dining

Staying at an island resort means that couples can look forward to plenty of opportunities for romantic meals together with dinners on the beach under star-studded skies being a popular choice. Of course, certain properties take dining for couples literally to new depths in a good way; this can be experienced at some resorts that feature an underwater restaurant where you can dine amidst views of coral and marine life!

Spa Healing

After all the rushing about for the wedding, the honeymoon is the perfect period for couples to just take time off to relax and feel rejuvenated which also sets the mood for romance! Resort spas in Maldives offer the ideal setting with treatment rooms for couples so you and your partner can embark on a wellness journey together. Amongst the highlights would be signature local healing rituals such as a Maldivian sand bundle massage and a coconut shell massage.

Enchanting Cruises

One of the best things to do on a Maldives honeymoon is to set off on romantic cruises. The most popular option would be a sunset cruise on a traditional boat called a dhoni, providing the perfect vantage point to witness the sun dipping below the horizon, painting the sky in mesmerising hues. For something different, stay at a resort that also offers a private full moon cruise where you can take in a magical sight at night amidst the serenades of the sea.

Maldives

When it comes to a country that exudes romance and offers the perfect setting for a destination wedding, you can hardly find a better choice than the Maldives and here’s more that couples should know.

Beach_Weddings
Beach_Weddings | Image by CrownTours Maldives via flickr

The Legalities

You may be surprised to know that while in the Maldives, destination weddings are very popular, those featuring two foreign nationals are not legally binding. However, don’t let that stop you from planning a wedding or renewal of vows ceremony here! Many couples tend to have a legally-binding wedding or register the marriage in their home country and have an enchanting and symbolic ceremony in this tropical paradise.

Resorts & Locations

For such a ceremony, the ideal choice would be an island resort with options like OBLU SELECT Lobigili being even more suitable since it’s exclusively for adults only adding to the privacy. The great thing is, such properties provide a choice of location for your special day; a secluded beach that’s been decorated and set amidst infinite ocean views is a perennial favourite, though some resorts even give couples a chance to renew their vows on a heart-shaped sandbank for two!

Types of Ceremonies

Those planning to tie the knot can look to have a conventional Western-style ceremony where the bride and groom wear typical wedding attire that makes for mesmerising pictures as well. That said, some resorts will offer the choice to incorporate more traditional local aspects for a truly distinctive Maldives wedding. It can include a “Bodu Beru” drum procession, Maldivian attire, a wedding officiant or dedicated ceremony master and delectable local snacks.

Special Additions

Resorts here will make your destination wedding even more unforgettable with certain inclusions on, during and after your special day. These can include transporting the couple to the ceremony location in a decorated buggy, a three-tier wedding cake-cutting ceremony, a curated wedding gift hamper, a bottle of champagne and a four-course, candlelit beach dinner. You could also stay at a luxurious beach or overwater villa with a private pool and sunset views for a magical honeymoon too!

For a truly enchanting wedding, Koh Phangan in Thailand offers the perfect setting and this guide provides essential information to help plan your special day here.

Choosing the Location & Resort

This island may be famed for its full moon beach parties, but it also offers secluded shores perfect for a romantic beach wedding. One such ideal coastal locale would be Thong Nai Pan Noi Beach where you could stay at properties like Anantara Rasananda Koh Phangan Villas which also offer the services of a wedding planner. The great thing is, such resorts are perfect for your honeymoon too featuring an ocean pool villa with direct beach access, spa bliss with couples’ treatments, beach dining and more!

Selecting the Venue

You will also have a choice of venues in which to host your celebration of love though the most popular option is to have a beach wedding. Thailand offers the perfect setting for such nuptials on Koh Phangan with some resorts providing a lovely setting on the shore; imagine a white sand aisle sprinkled with rose petals and a floral archway amidst an ocean backdrop. Depending on the property, you could instead opt for a tropical garden venue or even a cliffside deck for an intimate ceremony overlooking an idyllic bay.

Types of Wedding Ceremonies

Keep in mind that in Koh Phangan, wedding packages are available that let you choose the type of ceremony as well. For something unique, you could opt for a traditional Thai ritual which will include aspects like a master of ceremonies, Buddhist monks, a water blessing set, a tea ceremony with Thai sweets and live Thai khim music. Alternatively, you could choose a typical Western ceremony on the beach with floral arrangements, a wedding celebrant, wedding cake, a bottle of champagne, instrumental background music and more.

Image via Anantara Rasananda Koh Phangan Villas

Legal or Symbolic Wedding

Remember, that to legally be wed in Thailand, it can first take three to five days in Bangkok to get all the formalities in order and submit the needed paperwork. This can be time-consuming and will most often require the aid of a local wedding planner making it more suited for residents or those that are staying long-term here. The more convenient choice for foreign couples is to have the legal ceremony in their home country and enjoy a symbolic ceremony in Koh Phangan the way they always dreamed.

Weddings are the result of years and years of hard work, planning, and enthusiasm put together. It is everyone’s ultimate dream to have the perfect wedding. If a dreamy wedding by the sea is what you have in mind, here is a checklist for beach weddings to make it easy for you.

Image credit-Unsplash,CC0

First things first!

If you’re planning a beach wedding, choose a theme that suits a beach vibe. Essentials first, get your wedding rings, vows, outfits, and the guest list ready. The outfits must match the wedding theme, of course! These require much time to finalize, so plan well in advance. Make sure both the bride and groom are on the same page about the final decision to avoid any hassle!

The venue is everything!

A wedding will never look right in the wrong place. If you want the perfect beach wedding in Malaysia, resort such as Pelangi Beach Resort & Spa would be a great option to consider. With the breathtaking ocean views and the summer vibes, along with the right decorations in place, the chosen venue will look out of this world. It is important to make sure to decorate the venue while sticking to your wedding theme.

Wedding Vendors

If the food, music, lighting, and decorations are to be outsourced, find the best and the most reasonably priced vendors for you. The vendors play a major role in a wedding by carrying out their delegated tasks so that you don’t have to worry about it. As a final note, do not forget to adhere to the COVID-19 regulations while planning the wedding and on the wedding day!

Dream Wedding in Maldives

 

If it’s magical island romance and beachside bliss you want for a wedding, you can’t beat the Maldives! Here’s more to help you plan your special day.

wedding in maldives
wedding in maldives | Image via Pixabay

Legalities of the Wedding

You should know that for non-residents, a wedding here will not be legally binding. Because of this, many couples opt to get legally married in their home country and celebrate it with a symbolic ceremony here or vice versa. When it comes to a renewal of vows, Maldives is an ideal destination for it too and you will not need any legal documentation for such ceremonies either.

Resort & Location

Be it for a wedding or a renewal of vows, choosing the right private island resort is important. Ideal options include properties like Kandolhu Maldives that provide sublime coastal backdrops, bespoke planning and the services of a wedding coordinator. For the ceremony location, a secluded beach is always a popular option, though you can even consider a private yacht at sunset!

Package Inclusions

Ideally, check to see if the resort offers a special wedding or renewal of vows package that will feature not only the planning and coordination aspects but other additions too; these can include a decorated beach venue, a master of ceremonies, a cake and bottle of champagne, photography session and even local ‘bodu beru’ drummers who will add a Maldivian touch to the event.

Best Period

The good news is that there’s no bad time to have your Maldives wedding! That said, the peak season from November to April is when you can experience the best weather with plenty of sunshine; bear in mind rates will be higher too. The off-peak season from May to October sees the arrival of rains though not all the time so you can still host your ceremony, while rates will be less too.

  

Are you a trendsetter? Is hosting an exotic destination wedding in the books for you? The capital of the UAE, Abu Dhabi, can be considered as one of your top picks to host that enchanting eve when dreams come true, and here’s why.

The Location

The city boasts a landscape so varied that a destination wedding of your choice can become a reality with the many options of wedding venues in Abu Dhabi. You will be at the advantage of residing at a luxury hotel like Qasr Al Sarab Desert Resort by Anantara which will guide you through the wedding ceremony preparations that can take place in the secluded desert dunes, pristine beaches or even at the hotel premises.

Wedding Planning

As destination weddings call for lands unknown, requesting assistance from a local wedding planner will surely make your day as magical as you imagined it would be. The growing popularity of Abu Dhabi as a prime wedding destination has made space for expert wedding planners that even offer initial consultations to hear you out. These professionals have built vast networks within the country that allow them to plan the perfect wedding from a splendid acrylic backdrop to the most fragrant floral arrangements.

Image via Qasr Al Sarab Desert Resort by Anantara

Accommodation

Accommodation for a destination wedding is never a pressing concern in the UAE. Abu Dhabi provides the perfect setting for luxury and comfort filled hotels and resorts where your guests will be at an advantage to reside. The city offers a range of lodging options to fit your wallet. Therefore, do not fret as most of your guests are highly likely to make it to your special day as they discover a recreational haven in Abu Dhabi.

Cuisine

The UAE is known for serving authentic global cuisine in its most original form. Therefore, selecting a menu that fits your preference will not be a hassle. Additionally, Abu Dhabi hotels are known to serve freshly crafted dishes that leave guests in awe. You can also consult your wedding planner for a caterer recommendation to suit your needs.

Thailand is a hotspot for any kind of romance: married partners wanting to escape the city, honeymooners in need to unwind, and couples looking to tie the knot. Here’s a guide to planning your wedding.

Pick the destination

With its breathtaking mountain views and lush greenery, Northern Thailand is an ideal option to have your wedding ceremony. Between June to February will make it look amazing for a celebration outdoors. A beach wedding fits perfectly in cities like Phuket, Hua Hin, or one of the many southern islands in Thailand.

Image via Anantara Golden Triangle

Book your stay

Before starting your initial planning for your destination wedding, the first thing to consider is the selection of a venue. The rest of the planning procedures lies upon the venue that you select. For instance, when it comes to an unforgettable Lanna wedding in Thailand, you can consider a resort like Anantara Golden Triangle offering an exceptional oceanfront setting to bring your most awaited beach wedding to life.

The kind of ceremony

The most common and popular option will be to consider doing a traditional Thai Buddhist-style wedding. It is held in a local temple, led by monks in the early hours of the morning. Any other kind of non-religious or religious ceremony can be arranged with the help of the venue you choose.

Find the right wedding planner

When it comes to planning a memorable wedding in Bali, it seems like an uphill task. In order to give you more confidence throughout the planning process, it is recommended to get help from the right wedding planner.

Poruwa Ceremony

Traditional Sri Lankan weddings are quite a grand affair and in no way is it easy to prepare for. Nonetheless, the locals take great care in the details from the best time to begin the ceremony to the luxurious looking attire.

Nekatha

This is the Sinhala term for an auspicious time. The horoscopes of the bride and groom are examined by an astrologer and the best date and time is selected for the wedding. This special day is said to bring blessings for the couple.

The Poruwa Ceremony

This is the part where the immediate family of the bride and groom along with the astrologer shower their blessings upon the couple. It is usually held at Kandy wedding hotels the likes of Hotel Topaz or event halls in other locations.

Traditional wedding outfits

Wedding Outfits
Wedding Outfits | Img via Hotel Topaz Kandy

The bride and groom dress in truly royal fashion when it comes to a Buddhist wedding in Sri Lanka. The bride is dressed in a white Kandyan saree adorned in gold sequins and beads. They also wear heavy jewellery. The groom too wears a grand kit which consists of a sarong, a jewelled cap, jacket and shoes.

Homecoming ceremony

A few days after the wedding, the groom’s family welcomes to bride home. At the poruwa ceremony, the groom’s mother gifts’ the bride a red saree which she will wear for the homecoming ceremony.

 

Although a wedding is just a matter of one day or even a few hours, this event needs a lot of pre-planning! Plan your big day in Singapore and make some amazing memories to cherish for a lifetime.

The budget

First, decide what’s your basic idea of the budget? All elements including the guest list, menu, and other expenses such as decor are based on your wish to splurge or to save. Talk with your partner if he/she would like to share the costs (which happens most of the time).

The theme

Wedding Venues for Themed Weddings  in Singapore | Image via PanPacific Singapore Official Website

Thematic weddings are trendy nowadays! So, why not choose one of the best wedding venues in Singapore the likes of  Pan Pacific Singapore, and make your wedding a dream-like one? These properties support you to make your thematic wedding even more amazing, no matter what your chosen theme is.

Pick the right vendors

Make-up artists, musical bands, photographers, and rent-a-car services are all vendors. Make sure you pick the right ones to serve you. Always, negotiate the prices with them.

Planning period

Start your planning at least 6 months before the wedding. In Singapore, you also have wedding planners to support you with this. They may charge an additional amount for their service but will make sure your day is well-planned and everything goes off smoothly on the big day.