Getting married abroad
Having your wedding ceremony abroad can be both a blessing and a curse. On one hand, escaping to a foreign country can prevent your guest list from spiralling out of control, and any overbearing relatives imposing their opinions on your choice of venue/flower arrangements/food. On the other hand, getting married in a foreign country can be costly by itself, and if a wedding package is not booked, organising every piece of the jigsaw in a foreign culture (let alone a foreign language can be tricky. Therefore planning in advance is essential, especially if you want to keep costs down! For a seamless wedding in paradise, and the chance to start your honeymoon early, follow our checklist below.
Where?
Where do you picture your fantasy wedding? On the beach, in a snowy wonderland, or a centuries-old church. Or perhaps something entirely unconventional (on horseback, in the jungle, in the desert?). Research not only your perfect landscape, but the ideal climate. Getting married abroad is no longer a kitsch and novelty thing to do; a huge industry has now developed around it, and there are companies that can cater to any couple's dream. Let your imagination be your guide - read wedding brochures, browse the Internet, and think about what epitomises your relationship.
Is it legal?
Once you have chosen the perfect country, look up the legal implications of getting married there. You will still need to get a marriage license in most places - and the waiting time for this can vary from one day to 30. Get in touch with the embassy of the country you want to go to, and be prepared to fill in a lot of paperwork. You may need a certificate of impediment, which will require a notice of marriage being posted at the local registry office for three weeks. Bear in mind that a wedding abroad will likely be a civil ceremony.
How?
What sort of service do you have in mind? Overlooking the city, or in an exclusive spot on the beach? There is even an ice chapel in Sweden that holds ceremonies, as well as countless hotels that can provide attractive contemporary settings.
Where will you stay?
If you are getting married in a hotel, accommodation will probably be a part of the package. Your guests will probably want to stay together, if not in the same hotel as you, so ensure there is enough space for your desired date.
When should you book your flight?
As soon as possible! There is no point in booking the ceremony, the accommodation, and all the frills unless you have the means to get there. Take note of when the sales are to your destination, and don't be afraid to mention that the trip is for your wedding (you may even get a flight upgrade!).
Last minute preparations
Once all the practical aspects have been booked, consider the personal touches that will make the ceremony special. Do not assume that a "normal" wedding will translate easily abroad. Most frills that go along with a British wedding are usually uncommon abroad. Bear in mind that a wedding cake with elaborate icing may not hold up in a much warmer climate. Research the customs of the destination, and embrace the exotic perks of foreign nuptials. Ensure that your wedding clothes are well packed, and that there are facilities to make those all important last-minute touch-ups!
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