Are you recently engaged? However, are you opting out on the planning a big wedding and being stressed the entire time? Are you going with a more intimate wedding at a fabulous destination? A destination wedding is great if you're wanting a more intimate place, plus the fact that it's at a beautiful site is a plus. It serves as your destination wedding and honeymoon. However, what can you expect when planning a destination wedding? Well, Wedding and Party Network is here to provide you with a few tips and what you can expect when planning your destination wedding.

Research – First thing is first, research your location. Research out different locations in the area, resorts, all-inclusive resorts, wedding laws, costs, flights, hotels and everything in between. Along with planning a wedding in your area, there are certain pre-planning steps for your destination wedding. The best thing way is to research online or visit with a travel agency that specializes in destination weddings. They will help answer all your questions.

Choose According To You -There are so many places out there, that you must find a place that is suitable for you. The beach, mountains, lake or even your favorite amusement park; these are all locations for your dream wedding. Find the perfect location for what fits your dream wedding and personality.

Combine – You can save money by combining items together. Mainly, combine the wedding and honeymoon together. Normally, when you plan your destination wedding, you are planning at a tropical location or one of your favorite getaways, which makes it a great honeymoon too.

Weather - Don't forget to research the weather. Not everyone shares the same weather during your time of the year. It could be cold in your area, but warm in the area you plan on getting married or it could be warm in your area, but cold in your ceremony site. Make sure to do your research on temperatures, seasons, tornado or even hurricane seasons.

Wedding Laws -If you're planning a wedding out of country, don't forget to research their wedding law. You'll need to know what paperwork you need like, immunization, blood work, marriage license, residency requirements and witnesses. Different countries need different requirements.

Considerate of Guests – Of course, having an out-of-town wedding is more expensive for your guests. Be understanding if your guests aren't able to make it. However, if they are, make sure you go out of your way to provide in depth lodging and transportation. Even create out-of-town gift sets for them with personal necessities, candy and whatever else you may associate with your wedding.

Use A Consultant - If you're unsure about planning a destination wedding, hire a wedding consultant or visit your local travel agency. They'll be more knowledgeable in what you need and know the best vendors in the area.

Just Go With It - Of course with every wedding, nothing will go as planned. So, don't stress, relax and enjoy it!

This post is brought to you by Destination & Honeymoon Locations
Use Wedding and Party Network's handy wedding planning directory to help you find a destination & honeymoon location near you!

Without passion photography just creates a picture, but with passion it can tell a story. More importantly, it can tell YOUR story.  Telling your personal story is one thing Camera 1 thrives on.  In fact, every one of their high quality event photos is story telling at its finest.

They can tell your story through a variety of services, such as, wedding photos, family portraits, business pictures, sport shots and even advertisement photos.  Anyone can capture a moment, but letting Camera 1 tell your story through their lenses capture more than a moment. It captures the essence of the event.

Why Camera 1 Is Right For YOU

What makes Camera 1 the right choice? Award winning photography and features in several journals are part of what makes them amazing event photographers. Herb and Jim Cawthorne have years of experience and strive to take every subject to new photographic heights.

After all, it is your life that needs to be captured in your wedding or special event photos. This is why you should let Camera 1 capture your upcoming bridal portrait, family portrait, wedding or special event. Their creative and innovative techniques are what make your photographs come to life.

Need another reason? With all the stress of playing host or bride, you will forget or miss out on little moments, but Camera 1 will be there for it all. When you receive your photos, you'll find yourself saying, "Wow, when did that happen?" or "I forgot that cousin Joe got on the dance floor!"  Whatever your special occasion may be, Camera 1 will be there for it all to provide priceless, stunning pictures.

Far Away Or Right Next Door – Destination Photography

Need a destination photographer outside of Columbus, Georgia?  Camera 1 is your number one source!  They are willing to travel far and wide just to capture your dream event.  Capturing every moment of your life is their passion.

Whether a destination wedding or an event at home, Camera 1 can photograph every aspect of your life.  Let them provide that next prized piece of home decor with their breathtaking aerial photography or nature photography. Have them capture special moments with loved ones. Camera 1 take great pride in honoring our nation with specialized military portraits.

Saving Photos From The Past

Do you have old family photos that you love, but have become faded or been torn?  Camera 1 can change that!  With their specialized digital restoration and reproduction, they can bring your special photos back to life.  Your family history will live on through those reproduced photos.

High quality work and a satisfied you is what Camera 1 strives for with their photos. You'll cherish the story they tell for a lifetime. What are you waiting for, let photos from Camera 1 tell your amazing story.

Planning a wedding? You are are in luck! Delta Flowers and Gifts creates not only the most beautiful wedding arrangements; they specialize in everything wedding!

Delta Flowers and Gifts is the ideal shop for sending flowers for special occasions, holiday's, funerals, or just because. They use only the freshest, most beautiful flowers for every flower arrangement they create. You can also send customized gift baskets hand made by their creative florists.

Delta Flowers and Gifts will also customize your bridal bouquets, boutonniere's, floral wedding decorations, and table centerpieces to fit seamlessly with your wedding colors and theme.

Soon, you will be able to visit their wedding website that is specifically tailored to all of your wedding planning needs. Even wedding planners and party coordinators will find they can use their unique offerings for all of the cakes, decorations, flowers, and supplies needed to create a priceless, memorable event.

Not only does Delta Flowers and Gifts create beautiful floral arrangements and specialize in wedding flowers, they are known for their superb customer service! Here are a few things their customer's had to say about their experiences:

"I received a special Valentines arrangement from my now fiancee, that included some of the most delicious chocolates I have ever tasted and the flowers were unique and beautiful. Thank you so much for the exceptional quality and service."

"I recently attended a wake and noticed a beautiful arrangement there. It was the most beautiful flowers I have ever seen. Yellows and blue flowers that were stunning. I noted the shop that made this and It was Delta Flowers. I will make a point to come in and get some flowers from them."

It is evident that, whatever your floral need, Delta Flowers and Gifts will deliver an amazing product to your loved ones or acquaintances. Visit their website today to find out how they can enhance your wedding or special event!

It's easy to believe that every wedding costs tens of thousands, even hundreds of thousands, after flipping through the channels. Brides dripping with diamonds, grooms riding in luxury cars, as easy as it is to get swept way into the money-madness, it's important to note that you can have your dream wedding without going broke. In other words: you can have your cake and eat it too!

There are countless wedding tips and tricks on how to save cash when tying the not, everything from making your own wedding invitations to buying a second-hand gown. However, let's talk about the big things, the things that will make your wedding the stuff of your dreams.

To start, think of what is most important to you. Did you always dream of a wedding by the beach? Do you want a sit-down meal?

Once you and your fiance have decided on one or two non-negotiables, figure out how much making that a reality will cost. Don't be afraid to get creative. If you have a favorite hotel that you want to get married in, try to schedule your event in the off-season or strike a deal, such as renting a minimum number of rooms to get a break on the ballroom. Same goes for destination weddings. It's a bit of a risk, but it could save you thousands. In addition, by hosting your event in a unique or lavish location, you have all but eliminated the need for extensive (and expensive!) decor. A few flowers here, a few candles there, and voila!

Once you have your non-negotiable, do your best not to sweat the small stuff, because it is, in fact, small stuff. Spend money on the things that mean the most to you and your family. Only you know what they love. Focus on the big things and forget the rest. If you have money left in your wedding budget, you can add the extra items later.

Just remember, at the end of the day, it's about you marrying the person you love. Keep your eyes on the big picture, spend on the big stuff and work your way down to the tiny details.

There is something about a wedding on the beach. The gentle waves, cool breeze, and open air exude a carefree romance. Beach weddings have a sort of magic that no other destination wedding can possess. It is that magic that keeps couples returning again and again to the sandy beaches of Long Beach, California, to recite their vows or renew them once again.

Weddings by the Sea offers everything you need to have a magical wedding on the beach without the hassle of trying to take care of all  the details. They have been helping couples get married in their dream location since 1989. No matter if you're inviting only your closest friends and family or 600 people to witness the event, Weddings by the Sea can make sure you have the carefree, spectacular wedding that only a beach wedding can offer. They provide:

• Non-denominational services by a licensed minister.
• Wedding coordinating services.
• Multiple Southern California beach locations
• Licensed notary public who can file your paperwork and issue your wedding license on site.

With Weddings by the Sea, your only task is to get married. You don't have to worry about the small stuff. They handle everything so you can relax and take in the most important day of your life. Their energetic and professional manner will ensure that your beach wedding will be nothing less than spetacular. Call Weddings by the Sea today and experience a beach wedding like none other!

Wouldn't it be lovely to have a beautiful wedding and reception all in one location? Not having to drive across town for a reception, photos or clothing changes is worth its weight in gold. Tie the Knot the Wedding Chapel in Lexington, KY, is the perfect one-stop-shop location to host your wedding. Irene can take care of your special day, and you won't have to worry about making it all come together.  After you plan with Irene, she'll take care of the rest! Simply show up, enjoy your day and watch as you, your friends and family celebrate the beginning of your new life!

You can have it all without having to run around town planning. By choosing Tie the Knot Wedding Chapel, you can have your wedding, photos, and reception all under one roof! Your guests will enjoy not having to travel between events, and you can have peace of mind knowing that everything is taken care of and in one place. You will be shocked at how easily everything fell into place after choosing Tie the Knot Wedding Chapel as your wedding location!

Also, there will be no need to worry about your rehearsal! The place is all yours! Never feel rushed, pushed or pressured trying to iron out the last of the important details before your wedding day. Irene knows how to treat her guests. She understands that this is the most important day of your life, and takes care of you from the very beginning.

Tie the Knot Wedding Chapel is also great for eloping! Many happy couples have made lifelong memories at Tie the Knot Wedding Chapel. You can be the next!

Location, location, location! You have heard it a million times, but it's  never been more important than when planning your wedding. Aspen Hall Manor has everything you need to throw a destination wedding to remember: charm, location and elegance.Your guests will truly gasp for air when they approach this stately manor in the gorgeous, southern locale of Harrodsburg, Kentucky.

Listed on the National Register of Historic Places, Aspen Hall features grand columns, tall ceilings and enough southern charm to fill an entire wedding. You and your guests will enter a new world when you step into the rich, romantic halls and breathtaking rooms. The easy elegance and old southern appeal make for beautiful, yet relaxed affairs, ideal for couples who cherish tradition but strive for a warm, welcoming ceremony.

Nestled on an acre of land surrounded by magnolias, your guests can roam about and take in the peace and quiet while you prepare to make your way down the grand staircase to begin the rest of your life. Twenty-nine steps is all it takes to become a part of the 170 years of history found in the manor. There is nothing else like it.

In Aspen Hall Manor, you have everything you need in one place. Four beautifully appointed bedrooms await you and your special guests after the festivities are over and the fireflies emerge late in the evening. Crawl into luxury and be surrounded by rich linens and southern comfort before leaving for the honeymoon of your dreams.  Have breakfast in the sun room or lie around blissfully knowing that the day before fulfilled the your every dream by choosing Aspen Hall Manor for you southern destination wedding.

I know destination weddings are a big trend these days, but with the economy in the shape it’s in, it may not be affordable to have your wedding in a tropical location. So, I was thinking: why not stay at home and create your own destination wedding? With enough creativity and helpful wedding vendors, you could “design” your own tropical wedding without actually going there.

Whether it’s Hawaii, Jamaica, or the Bahamas, you could create the feel of a tropical paradise for your wedding day. For a more casual fell wear the same strapless wedding gown you would wear on the beach and let your groom wear an easy, open collar shirt and lightweight slacks. Even go barefoot for a beach-y feel.

Your wedding decorations could be large tropical plants and flower arrangements with birds of paradise, orchids, any flower you would find in a tropical locale. If a Hawaiian wedding is your dream, you could wear leis instead of carrying bouquets and wearing boutonnieres. Instead of traditional candelabras, use candles covered by glass lanterns or hurricane lamps. I think you could really come up with some great ways to decorate for your wedding using this idea, and save a lot of money, too.

Carry the tropical destination wedding theme over into your wedding reception.  Have your caterer serving tropical fruit platters, pulled pork, Hawaiian Chicken with rice, and pina coladas. Who says you have to spend a small fortune to get married on an island when you can create your own paradise right at home?

A special thanks goes to:

Blue Pagoda & Evolution Orchids LLC, an Englewood FL wedding bouquet florist, for their lovely Cymbidium orchid bouquet picture.

Ann's Bridal & Etcetera, a wedding caterer from Searcy AR, for their scrumptious looking fruit platter photo.

With summer right around the corner, it’s hard for me not to daydream about the romantic possibilities that the quixotic destination wedding holds. It almost seems as if a movie is taking place around your life; a movie that is embedded in your mind for the rest of your life. Destination weddings have become even more popular over the past few years. Which has in turn resulted in a demand for more destination wedding options from travel providers and wedding coordinators.

A popular option for destination weddings are Cruise Weddings. (And no, I don’t mean you have to get married on the cruise ship.) Many couples are taking the cruise opportunity as a means of transportation to their favorite island. While the boat is docked, they take this time to exchange vows and celebrate on the beach, or a venue on the island. When the day is done, everyone heads back to the boat to enjoy more all-inclusive meals and drinks. This is a great way to minimize costs to guests, keep things simple, and have a good time in the process.

With any destination wedding, legal documents can be a bit of a hassle. Make sure that if you are getting married out of country you have all of the correct paperwork and certificates required or you might not be legally wed when you return home. Most travel agencies or cruise lines can help you with this paper work if you let them know your plans. Travel agents are very useful in this type of situation also. If you have a travel agent helping you plan your destination wedding, they can help you get your marriage documents together to ensure a smooth process.

Be sure to look into making your destination wedding and honeymoon smooth sailin’ this summer with a destination wedding cruise. Whether just the bride and groom or the entire family, destination wedding cruises have something for all ages to enjoy. Your guests will be thrilled!

Ask The Wedding Guide: I am from Kentucky, and am getting married on Mexico Beach in June and am having trouble locating a florist to make the bouquets for my bridal party.  I need bouquets for 4 bridesmaids, 2 jr bridemaids, and 3 flower girls. I would like white daisies and hot pink gerbera daisies.  Greenery is ok but i hate babies breath, and I would like them tied with white ribbon.  I would like the bouquets to increase in sz from a small nosegay with 1 gerber and a few daisies for the flower girls, to 2 gerbers and more daisies for jrs, and 3 gerbers and more daisies for bridesmaids. I also need 2 corsages for our moms in the same flowers.  If anyone knows a good florist I would appreciate the help! Thanks Nicole

Guide's Reply:

If you are using a wedding package provider for the wedding ceremony and reception, contact them and ask them where you can get wedding flowers. They often work with other wedding vendors who provide the services that they don't.  If you are coordinating your own wedding, contact the hotel in Mexico where you will be staying and ask for the concierge desk or guest relations agent who can recommend  a local and reputable florist.  If you are not fluent in spanish, be sure to ask for an email address.  This way you can communicate via email and by using babelfish as a translator.  Babel fish isn't the best translator but it will help to get the point across.

Where are in Mexico are you getting married?  Someone who has been there might have a suggestion.

Congratulations and good luck.