So you want a destination wedding? Are you automatically thinking of far-off tropical beaches and impossibly expensive resorts? I understand, but let’s pause for a moment. That may be the traditional meaning of “destination,” but it’s 2016. Traditional is hardly a thing anymore, so let’s do a little reimagining today.
If your heart’s desire is to have a destination wedding, but your budget doesn’t exactly account for Costa Rica and oceanside resorts, don’t fret. Your jet-setting vows are not ruined. It’s all about how you look at destination.
WHAT DOES “DESTINATION WEDDING” REALLY MEAN
Let’s throw out preconceived notions here. A destination wedding is, simply, a wedding that’s anywhere you don’t live. A mountain wedding can be a destination wedding. Exchanging rings deep in the woods can be a destination wedding. Saying “I do” in a different city can be considered a destination wedding. And yes, standing with the ocean in the background and your feet buried in the sand with a flowy white dress counts, too. But I want you to know it’s not the only way to get your “destination” fix.
HOW TO DEFINE IT FOR YOURSELF
Think about your personality as a couple. What are the hobbies, adventures, and experiences that excite you the most? Are there any things that stand out to you as binders of the relationship? Obviously, the reasons you’re marrying your significant other are on a list too long to narrow down, but think about your love story for a minute.
Did you meet in college? Could your college town be an option for a dose of nostalgia? Or, if you bonded spending two weeks backpacking in the mountains of Colorado, could some place in the Rockies be the perfect backdrop to your celebration? Weddings are all about creating an awesome expression of your love. So if your love bloomed elsewhere, it’s at least worth considering redefining destination to make that part of your big day.
At the end of the day, the only thing you should take into consideration is whether or not your wedding plans feel good to you and your soon-to-be spouse. I say that what feels like time and time again, but there are so many places where loud opinions make brides and grooms forget that. Your wedding is an expression of your love for each other. It’s a chance to tell your story in a way that just fits. If that means taking your nuptials to the mountains, freaking do it. If it means staying where you are and hitting up the church down the block, do that too. But don’t feel like, because Fiji’s not on your dream board or in your budget, you are officially ruled out of the Destination Wedding Game. Make your own game, play by your own rules, and have an ever-loving blast while you do it! Cheers to you and whatever you define as “destination.”
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