Destination Weddings Legal or Symbolic

Posted on by Lucky n Love

When you are getting married, there are so many decisions to make and so many details to plan. One of the most important decisions is where your wedding will be held. For some couples, a destination wedding may be ideal. A beautiful location with a fun atmosphere that feels like a party every time you look at it! With this in mind, I’ve put together some important things for you to think about regarding destination weddings and the difference between a legal and symbolic ceremony. Additionally, considering the details of your wedding can help prepare you for any question for USCIS marriage interview, ensuring that your celebration aligns with legal and personal expectations.

destination weddings legal or symbolic

What is a Destination Wedding?

A destination wedding is when a couple gets married somewhere other than where they currently live. A destination wedding can be a great choice for couples who want to explore other cultures, get away from their hometown, or just have an adventure. There are many types of destination weddings, including destination weddings that are more than just a wedding trip.

Location, Location, Location

When picking a destination, it’s important to pick a place that fits both your and your partner’s interests and personalities. This will make the trip more exciting and enjoyable. It can also help create a more memorable trip because you’ll be spending time in a place that’s special to both of you. If you pick a destination that’s too far from home, your guests may feel bad about the cost to travel, and they may not want to make the trip. You don’t want to make your guests feel uncomfortable with their finances or the trip itself, so pick a location that is both within your guests’ budget and fun to visit! For example, consider looking into marquee hire Melbourne to create a beautiful and memorable setting that is accessible and enjoyable for everyone.

The Beauty of a Destination Wedding

If you’re into traveling and having an adventure, a destination wedding can be a great way to do both. You can choose a destination that fits both of your interests, which will make it even more special. There are many benefits to having a destination wedding, including how it makes your guests feel. It’s more likely to make your guests feel like they’re having an adventure too, and getting away on a fun trip. It’s also a great way to make memories with your partner that will last forever.

If you’re interested in exploring another culture, a destination wedding can be a great way to learn about another place and its people. Many couples feel that the beauty and scenery of their destination are what they love most about it. However, this isn’t always the case. Sometimes, it’s the people, the environment, and other things that make a destination truly special and memorable.

Legal Considerations for a Destination Wedding

While destination weddings are often a lot of fun and exciting, they do have one legal issue for you to consider. A legal (civil) ceremony involves additional costs such as paperwork, officiant blood tests (if required), document translation services, and obtaining an Apostilla Acta. These requirements and costs vary based on the specific destination.

To avoid the added cost and a few potential headaches, many couples choose to have a symbolic ceremony. They get the legal stuff out of the way back home, before or after their destination wedding. No one is the wiser if you don’t spill the beans that you are already legally married, or plan to seal the deal when you return home.

The Price of A Destination Wedding & Travel

Traveling to a destination wedding can be costly. It’s important to set aside enough money to cover both your wedding event and your travel costs. Begin exploring investment resources to help you afford the trip. Depending on where you want to go, the cost could range from $10,000 -$30,000+, based on the number of guests, the location, the resort/venue, and all of the ceremony and wedding activities you want to include.

There are resort locations in Mexico for example, that have packages that include up to 30 people, that range from $4,000 to $5,000 for just the wedding ceremony & reception. Cecil Peak Queenstown Elopement Heli Wedding Package is also a popular choice. Please keep in mind, that many resorts charge an outside vendor fee for photography and videography for example, if you choose someone that is not one of the location’s preferred vendors. The outside vendor fee can range from $300 – $1,800 based on the venue or resort.

Pro-tip: Consider applying for a cashback credit card to use for your wedding deposit, your group room block deposit, and other associated wedding costs to help you save a little bit of money. Look for cards that offer a cashback match, and 0% interest for an extended period of time. For example, The Discover it Cash Back card.

Who’s Invited?

If you’re having a destination wedding, there will be some people you invite, who won’t attend. If that is a problem for you or your partner, consider hosting an after-wedding party back home. So those who couldn’t make it can celebrate with you.

Final Words

To make sure your wedding goes off without a hitch, work with a destination wedding travel specialist or planner. Choose someone that has worked with the resort or venue, and knows the location. They will be your ally throughout the entire process and eliminate any planning stress.

Be flexible with your wedding date. Many popular places for destination weddings have limited availability, as far out as 2024. Consider a midweek day (Tuesday, Wednesday, or Thursday) for better options.

For questions about destination weddings, and legal or symbolic ceremonies, reach out to me.

Top 8 Things to do in Hawaii

Posted on by Lucky n Love

This Central Pacific archipelago includes hundreds of islands and a diverse range of activities. With huge waves, volcanoes, and interesting culture, Hawaii will keep you busy and entertained. These top 8 things to do in Hawaii you are sure to enjoy while visiting these beautiful islands.

8 things to do in Hawaii

Whale Watching

The ‘Big Island’ is the most popular destination for whale watching in Hawaii. The peak season to catch a glimpse of Humpback whales is from January to March. You have the option to view these amazing creatures on a cruise or private boat tour.

Luaus

These traditional ceremonies are a major source of entertainment on all islands within Hawaii. Take the opportunity to enjoy live dancing, learn about Hawaiian as well as Polynesian culture, and enjoy delectable cuisines.

See a Lava Show

Hop aboard a World-class catamaran to get up and close to the volcano fingers as they enter the sea. You will have thoroughly trained staff aboard, and safety is paramount. You can select from a tour in the morning, sunset, day, or twilight tour.

Helicopter Tours

Various tour lines offer unique aerial journeys that allow you to view the breathtaking Hawaiian scenery. From volcanoes and waterfalls to hidden valleys and majestic coastlines. A helicopter tour is truly an ideal way to sightsee.

8 things to do in Hawaii

SUP (Stand-Up Paddle Boarding)

This activity originated in Hawaii and is a derivative of surfing. SUP is soothing and allows you to explore the water on your terms. An excellent paddle path to take is from Lanikai Beach to the Mokulua Islands. Just make sure to bring the best paddle boards that you have.

Horseback Riding Tours

Explore the coastline or venture to hidden trails on an exploratory horseback tour. Most companies offer private as well as group tours. Some countless ranches and stables accommodate tourists. Paniolo Adventures is one of the largest, with an 11,000-acre cattle ranch located in Waimea.

Mauna Kea

This dormant volcano is a unique wonder to explore and erupted over 4,000 years ago. You can hike the summit, but be sure to stop by the VIS (Visitor Information Station) to check for weather and safety tips.

Kona Coffee Farm Tour

Kona coffee is some of the best gourmet coffee that you can find and is world-renowned. Kailua Kona, which is located on the ‘Big Island,’ is the heart of Kona coffee. When taking a tour, you will get to see processing facilities as well as the coffee fields. Don’t forget to take some time to indulge in the popular beverage.

Pack your bags, and take charge of your getaway with these 8 things to do in Hawaii that will be sure to make your experience amazing. To start planning, reach out to me today.

An Authentic Mexico Honeymoon

Posted on by Lucky n Love

Plan your honeymoon escape to a place where the sun meets the ocean. There are locations in Mexico that are more unique and offer an authentic Mexico honeymoon experience without crowds of tourists. Learn about the culture, enjoy sun-kissed beaches, and experience new adventures by the sea.

Riviera Nayarit

an authentic mexico honeymoon experience

Located north of Puerto Vallarta, Riviera Nayarit is Mexico’s beach destination with 200 miles of pristine coastline dotted with dozens of seaside coastal towns and pueblos. Enjoy lush rainforest-covered mountain peaks, nature sanctuaries, and golden sand beaches. Learn all about one of the richest cultures in Mexico, the Huichol culture.

Punta Mita

Leave the world behind you. This exclusive and luxurious destination has six miles of virgin Pacific coast beaches, surrounded by rolling green hills. More importantly the Pacific Ocean opens before you, and you will never tire of admiring the endless turquoise blue of the sea.

Enjoy an understated sophisticated stay coupled with relaxation at Casa de Mita. Casa de Mita is located on the beach in Punta Mita where the blue waters of the pacific will be your playground. This intimate hideaway is where romance lives.

Discovering a place means immersing yourself in its culture. Iberostar Selection Playa Mita wants to welcome you into one of the richest cultures in Mexico. Enjoy an all-inclusive experience with the pacific ocean at your feet. Enjoy a drink on the terrace and watch the sun fade below the horizon.

Located on the ocean in the heart of one of Mexico’s most beautiful beaches, the W Punta de Mita welcomes you to a remarkable experience. A biosphere reserve and seaside villages known for their crafts are located nearby. 

Escape to Secrets Bahia Mita. Located in Banderas Bay, with golden sand beaches, this adults-only all-inclusive resort combines elegance with natural elements. Enjoy amazing views of the mountains, ocean, and gardens. A romantic honeymoon at Secrets offers you gourmet room service, walks on the beach at sunset, and multiple dining options to choose from. Let romance bloom at Secrets Bahia Mita.

Sayulita
an authentic mexico honeymoon

When dusk falls on the beaches of Sayulita Mexico you will see silhouettes float across the water. Subsequently, watch bodies dive and emerge, facing the sunset while waiting on the next perfect wave. Each evening, these scenes are repeated. Sayulita is a surfer’s paradise and definitely one of Mexico’s more unique destinations. It is a place where you can honeymoon in a friendly and relaxed environment.

Certainly, the complicated world begins to disappear as the warm Mexican sun kisses your skin when you arrive at Hotel Playa Escondido. Celebrate your love in a beachfront room. Take a deep breath of sea air, and you will smile as you look out over the beach and the blue waters beyond. 

This is the first part of a series on authentic Mexico honeymoon destinations. Above all, there is so much beauty to be seen in Mexico, certainly at the beach and beyond. If you are looking for more romantic, and off-the-beaten-path places for a honeymoon in Mexico, I would love to speak with you.