We may never have hard numbers on how many dream and destination weddings were postponed or canceled in 2020, but we still know how hard it must be for couple to cope with lost deposits and especially opportunities for memories. Many resorts throughout the Caribbean, Mexico, and U.S. have launched creative experiences in the past few months to attempt to provide alternatives and, in some cases, even better wedding packages, and Meliá Hotels International is taking it a step further by first focusing on frontline workers.

Earlier this month, the popular hotel and resort company debuted two new programs, Romance by Paradisus and Love Stories by Meliá, that were developed with the goal of providing convenient and fulfilling destination weddings for couples looking to make up for lost time. But the spotlight right now is on frontline workers who spent 2020 sacrificing their plans, time, and even health to help others, as the “Big Day for Our Biggest Heroes” contest will award five couples with an incredible dream wedding at a property in the Caribbean or Mexico.

All they have to do is share their favorite engagement photos by March 10, and the winners will be able to choose the preferred bundle with a three-night stay included.

Both programs were created with a focus on variety, since no two couples are the same. In addition to the ceremony and setup, as well as important customizable details like cake and flowers, Romance by Paradisus includes concepts like “No Shoes Allowed,” which is a beach-centric affair, and “All Aboard,” which takes place on the water during the golden hour.

The Love Stories by Meliá program is comprised of three offerings, including the intimate and spiritual “Soul of Love,” the colorful and very festive “Tropical Tale,” and the stylish, self-explanatory “Glam Up.”

Even in times of romance and celebration, Meliá Hotels International has implemented health and safety protocols to keep everyone protected during their stays. Before entering, booking, and traveling, be sure to read the details of the Stay Safe with Meliá program, as well as the government guidelines of your preferred destination.

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Want to know where in the world is hot, hot, hot for destination weddings this year? Choose one of these 10 swoon-worthy wedding locations, pack your bags and get ready to say, “I do.”

Cayman Islands

With its miles (almost seven, to be exact) of coral-sand beach, Grand Cayman enticed Empire co-stars Grace Gealey (who was raised on the island) and Trai Byers to marry there in April. Befitting Hollywood is Seven South, the new penthouse suite at The Ritz-Carlton, Grand Cayman, which at 19,000 square feet (with its own elevator, assistant and cabana) may just be the largest and most luxe hotel suite in the Caribbean. For something more boutique-y, Kimpton Seafire Resort + Spa opened in November, with 266 design-centric guest rooms along a 500-foot stretch of Seven Mile Beach. Its ballroom serves up to 500 island-goers, but the best idea may be a ceviche bar right on the sand. Need some local inspiration? Cayman wedding planner JoAnne Brown of Celebrations showcases the best of the Cayman Islands in her book, Caribbean Wedding Style, from Pedro St. James Castle to Seven Mile Beach. Pop down for a go-see: Travel is easier than ever thanks to recent renovations at both international airports.

St. Lucia

Locally made chocolate and rum plus grand views of the Pitons equal all you really need for wedding success. Jumping on the spa-wedding trend, Capella Marigot Bay introduced serene ceremonies in its celestial little garden sanctuary of Auriga Spa. To add to its sweet white sand, Sugar Beach, A Viceroy Resort, has a new beach at the southern end of the property prime for a vow exchange, plus seven new luxury villas to kick off the honeymoon. To offer days of dining options to wedding guests, Sandals Grande St. Lucian Spa & Beach Resort recently opened three new restaurants, from Asian to Caribbean. On the Northwest coast, the couples-only, all-inclusive Rendezvous, fresh off a $12.5-million renovation and in July, introduced “Stolen Time” to ease the transition off the grid.

Tahiti

Tahiti synonymous with romance itself, but 2017 marks the 50th anniversary of the invention of the overwater bungalow, invented in this South Pacific haven. The first new luxury resort on the island in nearly 10 years, Conrad Bora Bora Nui debuts in March 2017 and ups the overwater bungalow ante with the only two-story designs in the destination. To ease wedding preparations, Tahiti In Style villa and property rental now offers a concierge service to help organize a ceremony in private locations like Motu island or Villa Miki Miki on Moorea. If you’re more the private yacht type, Island Escape Cruises is returning to Tahiti in 2017 with all-inclusive experiences to exchange vows on board.

Riviera Maya, Mexico

A-listers like Heidi Klum, Adam Levine and Behati Prinsloo poured down to Playa del Carmen last March for the wedding of country singer Jason Aldean and former American Idol contestant Brittany Kerr at Mahekal Beach Resort, whose $16-million update included the new beachfront Celebre wedding space and open canopied garden chapel. Nearby, groups that want to feel of a buyout will dig Thompson Playa Del Carmen‘s new bohemian-inspired, oceanfront Beach House with 27 guest rooms and suites, its own pool, private cabanas and an oceanfront restaurant. To continue the VIP vibes, Hard Rock Hotel Riviera Maya partnered with celebrity wedding designer Colin Cowie for three customized wedding experiences — Cowie himself handpicks the details. Stay tuned for the adults-only, all-inclusive UNICO Hotel Riviera Maya, scheduled to open early this year.

Hawaii

Kate Hudson, Goldie Hawn and Amy Schumer were among the first guests at Four Seasons Resort Oahu at Ko Olina, a 642-acre that opened in May 2016 on the island’s west coast 17 miles from Honolulu. Couples looking to make a grand wedding entrance can take advantage of the hotel’s baller fleet including a helicopter, yacht and luxury cars. Closer to the action of Waikiki, the Surfjack Hotel opened in May with a dose vintage 1960s Hawaii, down to its painted murals and birds of paradise wallpaper by local artists that are just begging for an Instagrammable wedding photo session. On Maui, do as The Bachelorette‘s Desiree Hartsock Siegfried and husband Chris Siegfried did for their one-year wedding anniversary in February, and celebrate with an intimate canopy dinner on the beachfront lawn at The Westin Kaanapali Ocean Resort Villas.

Turks and Caicos

It’s where stars go to celebrate: Last summer both Kylie Jenner (who rented a $50 million villa on Airbnb) and Emily Ratajkowski (who stayed at the luxe Amanyara Resort) held their birthday festivities on the islands. The next glitterati hotspot may be The Shore Club, the only development on Providenciales’ Long Bay Beach with 106 ocean view suites and six luxury villas on a nine-acre stretch. On popular, pristine Grace Bay Beach, Grace Bay Club‘s tropical-chic redesign led by interior designer Thom Filicia includes redesigned lobby and guest rooms, the new Infiniti Restaurant and Raw Bar and The Residences, a trio of freestanding, beachfront villas.

Antigua

It’s been said that there are 365 beaches on Antigua, one for each day of the year (we wonder which stretch of sand Oprah, who has a house on the island, tends to frequent). Antigua remains slightly under the radar, even though it’s one of the closer Caribbean islands — and major upgrades to the airport in 2015 now ease any travel hassles (though it’s worth it for a bite of sweet Antigua Black pineapples). Here, builders are abuzz: This spring will see the opening of Royalton Luxury Resort, a 500-room all-inclusive resort on the famed white sands of Deep Bay. The private island resort Jumby Bay, A Rosewood Resort, continually upgrades itself, now with the Together package filled with romantic excursions perfect for a post-wedding minimoon.

Florida Keys

Hemingway mystique meets laid-back Jimmy Buffet — such is life on the string of islands dangling off the southern tip of the U.S. And private jet is the best new way for VIP wedding guests to travel: Casa Marina, A Waldorf Astoria Resort, now offers direct seaplane air service with Key West Seaplanes from Florida airports to the property’s private beach pier. Farther north on Key Largo, Playa Largo Resort & Spa debuted in the summer with signature Sunshine State coral reefs and sea glass, plus 144 rooms and suites, 10 secluded bungalows and a standalone luxury guest house — saunter down its tree-lined path to a private beach to say I do.

Fiji

Firewalkers, diving with sharks, jungle hikes — Fiji is for couples in search of drama. The country is coming back strong after 2016’s Tropical Cyclone Winston, the most severe on record, and is returning to its roots as a romance mecca. The quintessential Fijian Jean-Michel Cousteau Resort on Savusavu Bay reopened in September with 25 newly thatched houses known as bures. For total seclusion, guests are ferried via seaplane to the remote Kokomo Island, a new collection of 21 bures and five villas on uninhabited Yaukuve Island.

New Orleans

Could the Big Easy be the next hipster hotspot? The opening of the trendy Ace Hotel, a nine-floor boutique property in an Art Deco former furniture store in the up-and-coming Warehouse District, seems to suggest it — though the style of its Barnett private dining room remains classic, charming old New Orleans. Also a mix of modern and Southern elegance, The Henry Howard Hotel opened with the signature crown molding and floor-to-ceiling windows that make a picturesque Garden District wedding background. In the historic French Quarter, completed renovations at Chateau LeMoyne (named for the city’s founder Jean Baptiste LeMoyne) offer added romance to a suite with a balcony overlooking the action. For those who’d rather sail than dance through the streets, the Carnival Triumph is the latest addition to The Port of New Orleans, with 4- and 5-day cruises to wed at sea (or sail off right after I do).

The post Best Wedding Locations of 2017 appeared first on Islands.

St. Lucia

St. Lucia is so romantic that The Bachelor has filmed here twice. Just as 2015 came to a close, The BodyHoliday added ITAL, an eight-seat organic experience in a garden, plus new treatments to the spa menu and fresh turquoise-and-driftwood guest-room decor. Twenty minutes away, Malabar Beach Club, a new locavore eatery at the 100-room Rendezvous, debuted in 2015. Other upgrades: a new swim-up bar, a refreshed main pool and renovated suites. Flying to this lush, volcanic isle from Chicago is a breeze on United‘s new nonstop route, introduced in December 2015.

Dominican Republic

The Caribbean’s most-visited island is capitalizing on its popularity. After a $40 million face-lift in summer 2015, the artsy Renaissance Santo Domingo Jaragua Hotel & Casino is sleeker than ever for small weddings; the hotel’s transformation is part of Renaissance Hotels’ new global Wanderlust design initiative. New digs arrived in Cap Cana in 2015 as well: AlSol Tiara Cap Cana treats guests to a swim-up bar and lessons in Spanish and cooking. Eden Roc at Cap Cana is undergoing a multimillion-dollar reno in 2016, including 52 new beachfront suites, a new infinity pool, a new restaurant and a spa expansion. Aman Resorts revealed Amanera along the North Coast in November 2015 — gaze at the ocean from your posh casita above a 60-foot cliff. Coming to Punta Cana in 2016, the 500-suite Excellence El Carmen will cater to foodies with 12 restaurants and 16 watering holes. Plus, getting to Punta Cana is easier than ever, thanks to three new American Airlines routes (from Dallas, Chicago and Charlotte, North Carolina).

St. Kitts

St. Where? Flying under the radar (for now), St. Kitts, pop. 45K, sits just east of the U.S. Virgin Islands. The island’s first-ever five-star resort, the 125-room Park Hyatt St. Kitts, debuts in 2016 on Banana Bay. Share your first newlywed kiss overlooking The Narrows, a strait dividing St. Kitts and its neighboring island, Nevis. Or go off the grid at the 400-acre Belle Mont Farm on Kittitian Hill, opened December 2014. The “farm” in the name is for real: The property grows fruit that’s delivered to each villa, guesthouse and farmhouse daily. Host a reception feast for 20 in a field.

Jamaica

The birthplace of the all-inclusive is still a leader in the field: Zoëtry Wellness & Spa Resorts will bring its signature Zen to Montego Bay in December 2016. Book your wedding one year in advance, and a cocktail party for up to 50 is included at no cost. Other all-inclusives that launched in 2015: the 700-plus-room Moon Palace Jamaica Grande in Ocho Rios (offering six themed wedding collections) and the 287-room Melia Braco Village, with two wedding gazebos. In December 2015, Couples Resorts’ founders introduced six new villas, designed with families in mind, at Idle Awhile on Negril’s Seven Mile Beach.

Los Cabos, Mexico

After Hurricane Odile slammed Los Cabos in 2014, area resorts paused for a refresh and emerged sexier than ever. That includes the new Champagne Terrace at The Resort at Pedregal, introduced at the start of 2015. Feeling more Manhattan than Mexico, 161-room The Cape, A Thompson Hotel arrived in June 2015; host your wedding in its two-story Surfer Villa. Set to debut later in 2016, the 77-room Cachet Beach hotel (soon to be Cachet Corazon) on Medano Beach is already lining up rooftop nuptials.

Aruba

Twilight actress Nikki Reed and hubby Ian Somerhalder of The Vampire Diaries sunk their teeth into Aruba on Valentine’s Day 2015. What’s new: Hyatt Regency Aruba Resort & Casino celebrated its 25th anniversary by redecorating all 357 rooms in 2015. Palm Beach newcomer Hilton Aruba Caribbean Resort & Casino arrived summer 2015 with 24,000 square feet of outdoor event space; commence your torch-lit reception with seafood chowder. Host the rehearsal dinner at BLT Steak, serving up prime cuts at The Ritz-Carlton, Aruba since August 2015. Flight alert: As of 2015, Southwest services Aruba.

Fort Lauderdale, Florida

Fort Lauderdale generated media attention in 2015 when it celebrated marriage equality by hosting the country’s largest mass same-sex wedding. And JetBlue‘s new routes from Baltimore and Philadelphia, launched in November 2015, make the area even more accessible. Big-city grandeur meets a casual beachfront vibe at the 290-room, 24-story Conrad Fort Lauderdale Beach Resort, opening summer 2016 — swap I do’s on the oceanfront terrace, and spend your wedding night in a yacht-inspired guest room with a marble soaking tub, all designed by Michael Graves. Or party with up to 350 besties on the 11th-floor License to Chill pool deck of the 349-room Margaritaville Hollywood Beach Resort, which entered the scene in nearby Hollywood in September 2015. Premiering mid-2016, the 487-room B Ocean Resort will have five venues (yes, the beach is one).

Florida Keys

The birthplace of the Rum Runner naturally specializes in laid-back luxury, including Key Largo’s Playa Largo Resort & Spa, premiering spring 2016. Part of Marriott’s Autograph Collection, the resort encourages marrying couples to plant a coral reef as a memento. Or anchor your love by the historic lighthouse at Marathon’s Faro Blanco Resort & Yacht Club, launched December 2014. That same month, 96-room The Marker Waterfront Resort opened off Key West’s Duval Street; serve some Key West pink shrimp at your reception. Another new Key West property — The Saint Hotel, which debuted March 2015 in Old Town — lures guests with its 36 bright blue-and-white rooms. Renovations also breathed new life into two Islamorada resorts in 2015: The 63-room Pelican Cove, with three beach sites for I do’s; and Amara Cay Resort, where Sparrows Tiki Deck (seats 20) channels the tropics.

Costa Rica

This pura vida jungle country boasted 99 percent renewable energy in 2015. Two new properties premiered at the close of 2015: In the surf town of Nosara, the 17-suite Olas Verdes is primed for a buyout. And on Papagayo Bay, the 202 suites at adults-only Secrets Papagayo Costa Rica are mere steps from volcanic sand. In Guanacaste, the town of Las Catalinas unveiled a Beach Club in December 2015; two hotels and a chapel will be added by the end of 2016.

Belize

Caribbean Sea meets jungle in this tiny English-speaking nation. The largest development ever to hit Ambergris Caye, the 60-acre Mahogany Bay Village will introduce a hotel (195 cottages and suites), a beach club, a spa, retail and dining in 2016. In 2015, Las Terrazas Resort & Residences began hosting sandbar receptions — lounge furniture included. Premiering 2016 on the Placencia peninsula, Itz’ana Resort & Residences will entertain private groups in the Rum Room, captained by a rummelier. Bonus: Southwest‘s new daily flights to Belize City via Houston make travel to Belize a breeze.

Oahu, Hawaii

The Obamas have spent Christmas on Oahu for the last eight years — and if it’s good enough for the first family, then it’s good enough for us. Hold a beachfront ceremony at The Royal Hawaiian, a Luxury Collection Resort, Waikiki, built in 1927 and used as a film location in season 6 of Mad Men. The famed Pink Palace introduced the reimagined, 17-story Mailani Tower in spring 2015; receive concierge-level service, gratis mai tais and a nightly spread of snacks. Also in 2015, two new rooftop experiences landed in Waikiki: Sky Waikiki is a 7,000-square-foot nightclub and lounge with a fire pit; and Tommy Bahama Restaurant Bar & Store flaunts a sand patio area, vintage surfboards and a 55-foot-wide living wall of native tropical plants. On the “sunset coast,” the 358-room Four Seasons Resort Oahu at Ko Olina is on track to open in June 2016.

Puerto Rico

Celebs from Johnny Depp to JLo have sought R & R on the Isle of Enchantment, and development is booming. Book a ceremony at Doubletree by Hilton San Juan‘s new beach club, premiered in May 2015, and private golf carts will whisk guests to your I do’s. Wyndham Grand Rio Mar Beach Resort & Spa added new family-friendly suites (sleeping six people each) in early 2016, and a director of romance has joined the staff. The 319-room Condado Vanderbilt, whose extensive reno wrapped year-end 2014, flaunts Puerto Rico’s first (and only) hammam; use the Bon Voyage brunch as a proper send-off. Courtyard by Marriott Isla Verde Beach Resort‘s fresh look, unveiled in 2015, extends to the ballroom and Adirondack chairs on the beach. Copamarina Beach Resort & Spa‘s 2015 revamp introduced a new pool deck and updated villas on 20 tropical waterfront acres in Guanica.

Cancun and Riviera Maya, Mexico

More than 100 new hotels have surfaced in the Riviera Maya in the last 15 years, and the trend isn’t slowing down. At the all-inclusive Royalton Riviera Cancun Resort & Spa, opened early 2015, wedding packages include late checkout and breakfast in bed, plus fun reception add-ons like late-night grilled cheese sandwiches. The Pyramid at Grand Oasis — a hotel-within-a-hotel concept unveiled in April 2015 — grants access to Cancun’s largest pool, a spa and a cigar bar. Two resorts also launched in 2015 near Playa del Carmen’s Fifth Avenue: the 92-room Thompson Playa del Carmen (stage your wedding on the rooftop, on a private beach or in the boho Beach House); and the 314-room Grand Hyatt Playa del Carmen Resort (stay for the honeymoon package, with a candlelit dinner). In November 2015, Secrets Akumal Riviera Maya, a 434-suite all-inclusive, premiered in the fishing village of Akumal. And at Karisma Hotels & Resorts’ adults-only El Dorado Seaside Suites, revealed December 2015, each of the 192 rooms has its own pool or swim-up access.

Turks and Caicos Islands

With Sofia Vergara and Joe Manganiello posting up at COMO Parrot Cay resort for their 2015 honeymoon, TCI is more tantalizing than ever. Send your guests on JetBlue‘s new daily direct service from Fort Lauderdale, launched in November 2015. The Residences, a new collection of five-bedroom beach villas, joined Grace Bay Resorts in July 2015; tie the knot under the glow of tiki torches.

Italy

Since George and Amal’s media-blitz Venice bash in 2014, Italy’s romantic heat has grown into a five-alarm fire. Marry at the 137-room Sheraton Lake Como, not far from Casa Clooney; open since March 2015, the hotel hosts welcome drinks by the sun-splashed pool. Spring 2015 welcomed the 266-room JW Marriott Venice Resort & Spa on the private island of Isola delle Rose. Nearby, San Clemente Palace Kempinski Venice will premiere in March 2016; on its 17-acre grounds are gardens and a 12th-century church. Renaissance Tuscany Il Ciocco Resort & Spa‘s $16 million 2015 reno updated its 180 rooms, lobby and restaurants; event spaces include a ballroom, terraces, piazzas and gardens. Debuting December 2016, a 120-room, five-star hotel at Toscana Resort Castelfalfi will be tucked into an 800-year-old medieval village.

Napa, California

Blend it like David Beckham — the sexy former footballer owns a vineyard in this tony wine region — and exchange vineyard vows. Celebrity chef Charlie Palmer took over St. Helena’s Harvest Inn in 2014, rebranding it to Harvest Inn by Charlie Palmer (shown) and introducing Harvest Table; a revamp of the 78 rooms is slotted for 2016. Get married in the Wedding Garden at The Carneros Inn (spruced up spring 2016 to the tune of a cool $1 mil), and greet guests with award-winning local pinot in the Hilltop Dining Room, featuring floor-to-ceiling windows.

The post Best Wedding Locations of 2016 appeared first on Islands.

1. Dream Big
Before you get bogged down in wedding planning, let yourself dream big. This is your chance for your vision to come true.

Do you want to say your vows on a sandy beach at sunset or in the majesty of secluded mountains? What does your ideal setting look like, and where in the world is it? The possibilities are endless, and if an exotic location is what you prefer, DestinationWeddings.com can help you through all the options.

2. Sign Up with a Destination Wedding Service
Pro tip: Sign up with a destination wedding service, like DestinationWeddings.com, before you wade any further into planning your big day.

Why? You’ll get to work with a Destination Wedding Specialist, who is an expert and has experience with all destinations, resort venues and budgets. They can even help you save money through incredible deals they negotiate with their resort partnerships. And when you work with an all-inclusive resort, you can get some incredible, customizable wedding packages for a fraction of the price of an at-home wedding.

You’ll get white glove service for every aspect of wedding planning, and you’ll feel so much better knowing there’s a destination wedding planning pro who can answer every question for you or your guests.

3. Select Your Destination and Set Your Wedding Date
By signing up with DestinationWeddings.com, you’ll be matched with a Certified Destination Wedding Specialist, who will be with you through the whole planning process. Working with your specialist, you can discuss your requirements and review all the resorts in your dream country until you find one that’s the perfect fit. Maybe you want a chapel or a gazebo as your setting or simply the beach. You’ll know when the fit feels perfect.

Once you decide on a destination, resort and date, your specialist will do all the coordinating with resort, and then the fun starts

4. Take Care of the Details
Customize your big day with the help of the resort venue and your destination wedding specialist. Some brides like to plan a pre-wedding trip to the venue to see everything firsthand, but this isn’t necessary. It’s up to you.

Decide on everything from the ceremony site (venues often have a few you can choose from) to the menu, flowers, linen colors, signature cocktails, photographer, and much more.

Let the resort and the wedding specialist help with this. For example, the resort can schedule airport shuttles or taxis for you and your guests so no one has to worry about transit after getting off the plane.

This is where you get to show your personality and taste, so be creative to come up with a celebration that reflects your style! Check out some resort inspiration at DestinationWeddings.com.

5. Get Your Wedding Website Running
A wedding website is a must these days. But it’s really important when you’re hosting a destination wedding.

Your guests will have a lot of questions — about everything from suggested attire to hotel amenities and dietary restrictions.

Make it easy for your guests to plan by putting all the need-to-know info on your wedding website. Include information on transportation from the airport, what’s included with accommodations, wedding activities, and commonly asked questions.

This way, guests can get the info they need without overwhelming your inbox. DestinationWeddings.com provides a customizable wedding website, and it’s free!

6. Pack Smart
Once your big day is almost there, pack smart to make sure you have everything you need.

In addition to your wedding outfit — don’t forget about shoes, undergarments, makeup, and accessories — you’ll need clothing for rehearsal dinner, brunch, and other events. If you’re going on your honeymoon right after the wedding, take along everything you’ll need for that.

Toss sunscreen, bug spray, sunglasses, and other sundries in your bag. These things tend to cost extra at resorts, so bringing your own is one way to save money. While this sounds like a lot, many brides actually find it’s easier to plan a destination wedding because there are so many helping hands. Relax, trust the resort staff (who does this every day) and focus on celebrating your romance with your closest friends and family.   Thinking of a destination wedding, but unsure where to start planning? Here’s everything you need to know to have a DestinationWeddings.com.

The post Steps to Plan a Destination Wedding   appeared first on Islands.

To that end, here are seven spots that specialize in memorable proposals, courtesy of mood-setting backdrops and resort staffs that ensure a seamless sequence of events. From a private sandbar to a bioluminescent bay, these proposal ideas practically guarantee a yes.

Bahamas

You could write, “Will you marry me?” in the sand. You could wait at the end of a path strewn with rose petals. You could plan a scavenger hunt. Or maybe you want to brainstorm something even more original. Regardless, Sandals Royal Bahamian‘s engagement concierge is standing by to help you pop the question in grand style. Once your partner has said yes, relax on the resort’s private island, dotted with cabanas, hammocks and fire pits. Then cozy up in an all-new River Pool Swim-up Suite, debuted March 2018.

Aruba

Marriage proposals on the Caribbean’s sunniest island are full of drama. Drop to one knee on top of the striking Casibari rock formation, by the brilliantly white California Lighthouse, or among historic gold mill ruins. If you need a hand planning, Hyatt Regency Aruba Resort Spa & Casino‘s romance concierge, Rosy Nuboer, is happy to assist. After it’s official, reward your efforts with a sunset cocktail cruise and a torch-lit Pampered in Paradise dinner.

Ibiza

Offer the ring while treating yourselves at Hard Rock Hotel Ibiza‘s Rock Spa. The Rockmantic package comes with a 50-minute couples massage, plus fresh fruit and a bottle of bubbly cava for toasting your engagement. Afterward, dream about beach wedding plans while immersing yourselves in the Water Circuit. For an occasion like this, an upgraded room is worth the splurge: The Rock Star Suite is equipped with romantic amenities like spa tubs (yes, plural), a round bed, and an outdoor terrace with beach views for days.

Maldives

Personalized proposals are Baros Maldives‘ forte; now the only decision is where to stage one. Should you kneel on the beach, under the sea, on a traditional dhoni boat, or on a private sandbank decked out with the world’s sexiest picnic? No need to stress; you really can’t go wrong. Now that you’re affianced, congratulate yourselves with an overwater meal at the Lighthouse Restaurant. Then steal away to your pool villa to celebrate à deux.

RELATED: Best All-Inclusive Resorts for Couples

Fiji

Want to take your marriage proposal totally over the top? Rent out a private island for the day. At the Jean-Michel Cousteau Resort, couples can board a boat for the short ride to Naviavia Island for a chef-prepared picnic and chilled champagne. Back in your bure, clink glasses, nibble canapes, and practice saying “my fiancé” as the sun sets over Savusavu Bay. The resort’s Romantic Escape package makes it easy with a resort credit of $230 and two free nights.

At Couples Sans Souci, leave proposal planning to the pros. The resort’s romance concierge might suggest a private beach bonfire; a guest room transformed with candles and flower petals; or a twilight trip to Jamaica’s Luminous Lagoon, where glowing microorganisms light up the water after dark. Soak in the resort’s natural mineral grotto for good mojo (the waters are believed to enhance the potency of love), and take advantage of next-level inclusions like a sunset sail and an excursion to Dunn’s River Falls.

Los Cabos, Mexico

No request is off the table at Las Ventanas al Paraíso, A Rosewood Resort. The property’s Department of Romance has heard it all, from a private candlelit dinner to a skywriting proposal over the shore. Surprise your partner by working with a chef to prepare a gourmet meal, and add some ambience with a classical guitarist or a horse-drawn carriage ride. There’s plenty of time for total privacy in your villa’s hot tub later.

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Dress Accordingly

Skip the big dress. Let’s face it: A ballgown belongs in, well, a ballroom. “You may be able to get down the aisle in a full dress and long train,” notes Paulette Davis of Bahamas Wedding Planner, “but walking on the beach and taking photos won’t be easy. If a large dress is a must, make sure it can bustle easily.”

Think light. “Dresses with lace trim can be difficult because they pick up debris from the beach,” says Kate Bentley of Happily Ever After Wedding Planning & Design in Key West, Florida. “Instead, choose a lightweight fabric like chiffon or charmeuse so your gown flows in the ocean breeze.”

Nix the veil. “When marrying outside, think twice about a long veil,” cautions Stacy Mulcare of Ceremonies of St. John. “If it’s windy, it will be a nightmare for you and the photographer.” Instead, accessorize your ‘do with fresh flowers or a fascinator.

Consider an updo. “Think of the elements when deciding on a hairstyle,” says Beth Helmstetter of Beth Helmstetter Events in Los Angeles. “A tried and true updo will keep you looking polished all night.” Larissa Banting of Weddings Costa Rica suggests doing a trial run at your location. If wearing your hair down is the only option, Helmstetter recommends investing in the services of a stylist, who can do touch-ups throughout the day.

Ditch the heels. Sand and high heels just don’t mix. “Wear flat-sole sandals, espadrilles or wedges — shoes that won’t sink into the sand,” says Banting. Have your gown hemmed with or without shoes, depending on which option you choose. “Remember, sand can get pretty hot. Have an aisle runner made of fabric or thick flower petals to help keep your tootsies cool.”

Avoid tan lines. “Be very careful of sunburn and unwanted tan lines,” advises Somchit Srimoon of Thailand Weddings. “Constantly apply waterproof sunscreen, especially while swimming.” Adds Tara Soloway of Luxe Destination Weddings: “This goes for the bride, bridesmaids and mothers of the bride and groom. Everyone knows what they’re wearing in advance, so they should plan bathing suits accordingly.”

Let your guys go informal. “While many brides envision their groom in a tux, black wool is a no-no in tropical climates,” says Helmstetter. Allister Simmons of the Bridal Suite Bermuda Weddings adds, “We save the ‘penguin suits’ for our many beautiful chapels and churches. Lightweight cotton pants or even Bermuda shorts are great options for the beach.”

At the Ceremony

Stay natural. A gorgeous ocean backdrop doesn’t need to be too dressed up. Instead, highlight the natural beauty of the setting. “A beach wedding can be about shells and starfish, but it can also take inspiration from the harmonious color palette of sand, dune grasses, stones and water,” says Karen Bussen of Simple Stunning in New York. “Decor should be simple; avoid going over the top with fussy flowers.”

Add color. To make your setup really pop, Sasha Souza of Sasha Souza Events suggests, “Choose colors that contrast the sand and the surf rather than blend in, like corals, greens and other vibrant tones.”

Go local. Celebrity-wedding planner Colin Cowie recommends hiring local vendors as much as possible. “Otherwise you might find your favors or chair covers stuck in customs.” Tracey Kumer-Moore of Your Las Vegas Wedding Concierge adds, “When it comes to food, look for caterers who are conscientious of local markets and respectful of the beach environment.”

Get a permit. Research the required paperwork to hold your ceremony on the beach, especially if it’s public. “Also, inquire in advance about noise ordinances, and be sure to follow them,” Kumer-Moore advises.

Ensure privacy. “Beaches are most crowded on holiday weekends, so avoid them unless you want the general public in attendance,” advises Janet Renner of Royal Hawaiian Weddings. And remember, not all beaches are private. “Hawaii’s are all public,” reminds Evonne Wong of Events by Evonne in Hawaii. “We’re not allowed to set up canopies, chairs or aisle runners. If you want decor, we suggest renting an oceanfront estate where you can have a secluded ceremony and still take photos on the beach.”

Prepare your guests. Make sure your guests know your event will take place on the sand, says Kelly McWilliams of Weddings by Socialites in Cape Coral, Florida. Mention your plans on the invitation or wedding website, and prepare your guests for the sun by including necessary items in the welcome bags. Celebrity-wedding planner Preston Bailey suggests travel-size bottles of good quality sunscreen, bottled water, towels and hand fans to beat the heat.

Time it right. When dealing with beach wedding photos, lighting is especially important. Barbara Fancsik of Eventful Moments Vallarta in Puerto Vallarta, Mexico, suggests ending the ceremony an hour before sunset. “That way, you’ll still get great action shots in natural lighting, as well as sunset portraits.”

Set up a shoe station. Don’t let your guests spend the day with sand in their shoes. “Provide a shoe check, where guests can swap their shoes for flip-flops and wipe sand off their feet,” recommends Tara Guerard of Soiree by Tara Guerard. “It could include a bench, towels and a bucket of water.”

Provide shade. “Shade is your guests’ best friend,” says Soloway. “Consider creating a canopy to cover the seating area; for example, you could source some rustic bamboo poles and loosely drape thin white fabric on top.”

Offer refreshments. To keep your guests refreshed, Soloway advises, “Set up a table with ice water, lemonade or a signature cocktail that guests can enjoy while waiting for the ceremony to start.”

Have a seat. “Wooden benches, folding chairs and waterproof ottomans are great choices because they’re heavy enough to withstand the ocean breeze,” says Guerard.

Prepare for wind. A good rule of thumb on the beach: Anything that can blow away will. If you’re using ceremony programs, weight them down with shells, tie them to chairs with ribbon or print them on fans, which perform double duty. And if you envision a perfectly petal-lined aisle, McWilliams advises, “Don’t toss them until the absolute last moment, right before guests arrive.”

Keep bugs at bay. “Insect repellent is a good idea no matter the season or beach location,” says Srimoon. Just make sure it’s a brand that won’t stain your gown.

Speak up. You’ve spent so much time writing your vows and personalizing the ceremony, so be sure your audio doesn’t get lost against the sound of crashing waves. “Rent a wireless microphone and speaker for your officiant to use,” suggests Iraida Gonzalez of Belize Weddings. Inquire if your officiant, resort or DJ can provide this equipment, and do a sound check prior to the ceremony to ensure there’s no unwanted feedback.

Keep it short. Given factors like heat and audibility, Mulcare advises limiting the amount of readings and performances during the ceremony — and make sure all participants know to speak clearly and loudly.

Have a backup plan. Unfortunately, weather has a mind of its own, so be ready with a solid plan B. “To keep the party on the beach, have a canopy or tent ready,” Cowie suggests. “Or find a space indoors where everything can take place.”

For the Reception

Anchor decor. Wind can topple tall floral arrangements, blow out candles and send other table elements flying. “Stay away from glass vases, which can easily break in the sand,” warns Bussen. If tall centerpieces are your dream, Helmstetter recommends having the florist secure them to the table with heavy objects. “She can always cover these mechanics by lining the vases with ti leaves, palms or other natural elements.” For lighting, “use hurricane-style lanterns or LED candles, which are flameless and longlasting,” says Bussen. When wind-proofing place cards and favors, a little creativity can go a long way. “Tie sea horses to each place card,” Helmstetter suggests, “and weigh your menus and napkins down with maracas or coconut shells.”

Rent a powder room. If marrying on a public beach, find out if there are bathrooms. If not, Natalie John of Dreamy Weddings & Tours suggests, “Hire an upscale portable lavatory for a few hours, especially if there will be lots of drinking during the reception.”

Keep warm. To help you and your guests fight a wind chill, Bussen advises, “Arrange a basket of comfy, color-coordinated pashminas to warm ladies’ shoulders.”

The post How to Plan the Perfect Beach Wedding appeared first on Islands.

It’s a classic tale: A couple goes overboard on their wedding budget and spends the next five years paying it off. But spending smarter on your wedding doesn’t have to mean sacrificing a pedigreed affair. Use these time-tested tricks to create a realistic financial plan, and you’ll pull off a fabulous event that won’t leave you in the doghouse.

1. Come up with a spending plan.

Figure out how much money you have to work with, and then determine how much you’ll put toward the various elements of the wedding. Just avoid calling your financial arrangements a “budget.” “That ‘b’ word is nasty,” says financial planner Jill Gianola, author of The Young Couple’s Guide to Growing Rich Together. “I prefer ‘spending plan,’ which puts more emphasis on how you’re going to spend the dollars. Don’t think about it as cutting back, but rather as using limited resources in the best way possible.” Handle things as a team; for instance, if the cake you want costs more than you’d budgeted, you and your groom both need to agree that the overage is worth it.

2. Search for bargain spots.

Hiked-up airfares and a weakening dollar have made some international locales extremely pricey, but there are still deals to be had. “People are staying within the U.S. or Latin America,” says Lisa Light of Lisa Light, Ltd. in New York. “Asia’s a great deal — it can be expensive to get there, but once you’re there, you can custom-make everything for pennies. Cruises also offer a big bang for your buck.” Head slightly off the beaten path — say, a smaller city outside a larger metro area — and you’ll likely see considerable savings as well.

3. Pare down your guest list.

Every extra person costs you money for invitations, food, cake and more, so check your list twice, and make sure everyone on it is an absolute must-have. “It may sound crass to put a dollar amount on someone’s head, but once you have estimates for the cost of the food, flowers and other details, you’ll be able to figure out how much you’ll pay per person and who is essential to the event,” Gianola says.

4. Skip the weekend.

“Everyone is already on vacation, so why not have a Monday or Tuesday wedding?” suggests Kelly Werder of No Worries Weddings & Events in Florida. “You can usually get a much better deal with the venue, with vendors and even on travel costs. That dream location that has an outrageous site fee on a Saturday may waive it on a Tuesday just to get your business.”

5. Stay open-minded.

The stricter the parameters you put on your wedding (it has to be a certain date, the flowers must be roses), the less chance you have to find a deal. “Flexibility is really important,” says Jennifer Brisman of Jennifer Brisman Weddings in New York City. “Reverse the question: Instead of saying to your venue, ‘I want to get married on this date,’ say, ‘I’d like to get married in the summer; what date can you give me where I can save money?'” Consider giving your florist leeway by asking for a “market buy,” where they choose the best deals from the floral market for your wedding while keeping your color scheme in mind.

6. Research the taxes.

“In the world of taxes, not all is equal,” says Jennifer Analovitch, catering concierge manager at The Inverness Hotel in Englewood, Colorado. “Larger cities can have independent state and city taxes that could cost brides an additional $1,000 to $5,000. Look for venues in areas with low taxes.”

7. Utilize local resources.

“The farther something travels to get to your wedding site, the more expensive it’ll be,” says Brisman. “Look for locations that use local produce, flowers from local gardens or wine from local vineyards.” Werder recommends maximizing the setting to minimize your decorating budget. “You probably don’t need much decoration if you’re having a beach wedding, so you’ll save on ceremony flowers. Take a look at incorporating shells, palm fronds or even pineapples and coconuts into your centerpieces to save on decor at the reception.” In the mountains, see which wildflowers are in bloom and can be sourced locally. And consider whether you need to have an outside vendor imported to your site or if a local can do the job — flying someone in will add considerably to your bottom line.

8. Team up with another bride.

Find out what other events your vendors have in the days before and after your wedding, and see if you can economize with another couple. “Ask your florist if you could collaborate on an order and get a discount — they may be able to tack on the flowers you need at a nominal cost,” Brisman says. For an outdoor wedding, see if you can share a tent with a bride getting married the same weekend. “If it’s a wedding of comparable size, contact those people and share the costs. You can approach the tent company as a group and save big on setup fees.”

9. Keep cuts small — and across the board.

Instead of making an obvious budget cut in just one area, make tiny cuts that add up to significant savings. “You can cut one course from the meal or serve just the wedding cake as dessert,” suggests Chicago-based planner Frank Andonoplas.

10. Nix the farewell brunch.

The day-after breakfast has become de rigueur for destination weddings, but lately some consultants have started steering their clients away from it. “Brunch is generally a waste of money. Half the people who say they’re coming don’t because they’re hungover or worried about heading home,” Light says.

11. Prioritize your spending.

Figure out what’s most important to you — a killer band, amazing centerpieces, a lavish five-course dinner — and put your money toward making the key details spectacular. “Spend your money on one or two things that are really wonderful as opposed to spreading yourself thin,” says Brisman. “Focus your funds on your guests’ experiences that materialize on the wedding day, and it will come off really well.”

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So you’ve decided to have a destination wedding. Get excited: gathering with your family and friends in a gorgeous locale is going to be an amazing experience. But, where do you start? We’ve broken down the steps to planning a stress-free destination wedding in our checklist below. Don’t worry — you’ve got this, and the result is going to be worth the effort. Here’s what you need to know to pull off a stellar faraway fete.

Ten Months to a Year Out:

• Determine your budget. Remember to factor in travel expenses, such as airfare and visa fees.
• Narrow down a wedding location and a season.
• Choose a wedding planner.
• If possible, schedule a scouting trip.
• Create the guest list.
• Choose the wedding party.

Eight to Ten Months Out:

• Select vendors for flowers, photography, transportation, cake and entertainment.
• Choose an officiant.
• Buy a gown.
• Send save-the-dates.
• Investigate any ethnic customs or cultural traditions you might want to incorporate into your event.
• Register for gifts or create a honeymoon registry.

Six to Eight Months Out:

• Research group excursions; plan one per day.
• Research accommodations for guests and reserve a block of rooms.
• Select attendant attire.
• Launch your wedding website.

Four to Six Months Out:

• Order invitations.
• Finalize florals, décor, rentals and cake.
• Launch your wedding website.
• Renew your passports, apply for visas, and look into destination-specific marriage laws and other entry requirements, like vaccinations.

Two to Four Months Out:

• Send invitations and a schedule of group events.
• Plan the welcome party and rehearsal dinner.
• Finalize menus.
• Confirm the hair-and-makeup trial and day-of-appointments.
• Schedule dress fittings.

One Month Out:

• Write vows.
• Choose welcome-bag goodies, guest favors and gifts for the wedding party.
• Create a timeline with your planner.
• Finalize ceremony programs and other stationery and signs.
• Nail down the playlist with the DJ.
• Confirm honeymoon plans and travel itineraries.
• Ship items in advance to avoid holdups at customs.

On Arrival:

• Meet with your planner and officiant to review the timeline, event spaces and ceremony.
• Apply for the marriage license.
• Arrange for your gown to be steamed.
• Distribute welcome bags to your guests’ rooms.

The Wedding Day:

• All done — start your happily ever after in paradise!

The post Destination Wedding Planning Checklist and Countdown appeared first on Islands.

With a plethora of wedding venues throughout Mexico, it’s hard to choose the one that’s best for your destination wedding, but The Luxury Collection stands out among the rest. With five Haciendas, three located in Yucatan and two in Campeche, you’ll find unique settings and experiences that fit your special day.

1. Hacienda Uayamon
Built in 1700, Hacienda Uayamon reflects the sophistication of a luxury resort while still highlighting the natural beauty of Campeche. For those looking for a mystic, energizing and peaceful wedding, this is the ideal location. Get married in the vestigial chapel, celebrate under the Ceiba tree or host a rehearsal dinner in a terrace overlooking the jungle. Uayamon is an experience no one will ever forget.

2. Hacienda Santa Rosa
A 19th-century building is the perfect place to host your special day. Hacienda Santa Rosa is a former nobleman´s private estate featuring hand-carved finishes and custom-made settings. Whether you are looking for a small and private wedding or a grand event, Hacienda Santa Rosa offers a memorable gathering to be treasured forever.

3. Hacienda Temozon
A hacienda built of coral walls and white moldings awaits you in the tropical rainforest of the Yucatan peninsula. Host your special day with the beauty of ancient Mayan architecture with venues like breathtaking terraces, horse stables and gardens. Hacienda Temozon provides a perfect scene that your wedding guests will never forget.

4. Hacienda San Jose
Magical walkways of gracefully cut flowers and dirt pathways welcome you to Hacienda San Jose. Exquisite colors pop at every corner of the hacienda, making days brighter and nights more mysterious against the flickering of candles. Host your wedding in the gardens, palapa, bar or restaurant. Venues provide the opportunity to watch the starry nights and listen to the sounds of wild life.

5. Hacienda Puerta Campeche
Create everlasting memories in the Hacienda Puerta Campeche, an architectural collection of colonial houses dating back to the 17th century. Hacienda Puerta Campeche is a magical and historical place to host your special day. Between colorful labyrinthine walls and a roof-top lounge surrounded by stunning views, this beautiful Hacienda has everything you need to create a memorable wedding celebration.

Learn more about The Haciendas Luxury Collection here.

The post 5 Unique Wedding Locations in Mexico appeared first on Islands.

Staying in an overwater bungalow is a no-brainer for a romantic honeymoon, but we say take it one step further and host an overwater destination wedding, as well. These resorts all offer over-the-water wedding chapels that allow you to do just that. Say, “I do,” in an over-the-water chapel, then start the honeymoon in an overwater villa – it’s a win-win.

Sandals South Coast – Jamaica

Sandals South Coast, an all-inclusive, couples-only resort in Jamaica, features a quaint, thatched-roof wedding chapel set on the water. Three glass panels in the floor lead to the altar where you’ll exchange vows in front of an expansive, 360-degree ocean view (due to its location, the spot can be windy, so we suggest skipping the veil for your ceremony).

Once you’ve said, “I do,” start your honeymoon in one of Sandals’ new overwater bungalows, appropriately situated on a heart-shaped pier.

Intercontinental Bora Bora Resort & Thalasso Spa – Bora Bora

Polynesian love songs and ukuleles welcome you and your loved one to the glass-bottomed chapel at Intercontinental Bora Bora Resort & Thalasso Spa, which overlooks Mount Otemanu. A Polynesian priest performs the wedding ceremony, incorporating unique touches like handmade flower crowns before baptizing you with your new Polynesian names.

Dancers then surround you with a traditional tifaifai (polynesian wedding quilt) and perform to celebrate your union. Marriages at the resort are purely ceremonial and not legally binding, but the staff can arrange a legal ceremony at Bora Bora’s city hall, if desired.

Four Seasons Resort Maldives at Landaa Giraavaru – Maldives

Four Seasons Resort Maldives at Landaa Giraavaru

Imagine riding a traditional Maldivian boat, known as a “dhoni,” to an overwater chapel in the middle of a UNESCO Biosphere Reserve. The intimate wedding pavilion at Four Seasons Resort Maldives at Landaa Giraavaru comes in at just under 500 square feet and allows for just 16 guests.

Say your vows atop a glass aisle with views of colorful fish and sea turtles, surrounded by floor-to-ceiling glass doors on three sides. The resort’s wedding packages include photography as well as Maldivian Bodo Beru drummers. Be sure to have a legal ceremony back home, as weddings in the Maldives are not recognized in the U.S.

Le Méridien Bora Bora – Bora Bora

From the moment you approach the stained-glass doors of Le Méridien Bora Bora’s Heremiti Chapel, you know you’re in for something special.

The chapel itself sits in a lagoon facing Mount Otemanu, which means your ceremony will be punctuated by breathtaking views of the peak. The chapel’s interior is warm and wood-toned with traditional pews and woven bamboo walls. Glass panels line the floor, creating a dramatic entrance and exit as you’re whisked away across the lagoon on rafts decorated with local blooms.

Ceremonies that take place at the resort are not legally binding, but the staff can arrange for a legal ceremony off-property.

Gili Lankanfushi – Maldives

Gili Lankanfushi’s overwater wedding pavilion, Lagoon Champa, is only reachable via private boat from the resort and offers a cozy setting for your vows. The Secret Wedding Experience, an intimate package for two, includes a four-night stay, a wedding ceremony for two with a special blessing from a Maldivian cleric, photography, a cake, a sunset cruise on a traditional “dhoni,” a romantic dinner beachside and your own personal butler (dubbed Mr./Ms. Friday).

International weddings in the Maldives are not legally binding, so you’ll need to have a ceremony stateside to make it legal.

Sandals Grande St. Lucian – St. Lucia

The glass-walled Serenity Chapel at Sandals Grande St. Lucian overlooks Rodney Bay on the resort’s southwestern end. A glass aisle leads to the river stone altar where you can take your vows in front of up to 20 guests. Enjoy an indulgent, all-inclusive honeymoon after your ceremony in one of Sandals’ recently opened overwater bungalows, with Butler Elite service and an outdoor tranquility soaking tub for two.

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