Who says you need to host your wedding in your drab local town? If you’re looking to create unforgettable wedding memories in pure sunny paradise then it’s time to consider a destination wedding—and we, at Elixuer, have some venue recommendations. Check out these amazing resorts where you can hold exciting and, most importantly, warm, faraway weddings that you and your guests are sure to cherish forever.
Dreams Tulum
Why not start off a listicle about dream destination weddings with a resort literally called “Dreams?” The Dreams Resort in Tulum is one of understated tropical opulence. Pressed against sparkling blue ocean and white sands at the Mexican coast, this resort is framed by palm trees, and the white and yellow buildings are as cheery and warm as the surroundings. It’s the perfect backdrop for big family weddings. You can bring in up to 100 for close to USD$15,000—and you don’t have to leave the kids at home either. There’s something for everyone here. Then, when the wedding is done, you can visit some of Mexico’s star attractions, like the historic Mayan Ruins and Xel-Há park, both of which are close to the resort.
Beaches Turks and Caicos
Lounge on blinding white sands before an endless turquoise ocean while you wait for the day of your wedding. Plus, if you book three or more nights under one of their blue roofs, the resort will host you a free wedding, complete with bouquet and cake. For the price of your stay, you’ll receive a standard wedding package at no extra cost, but if you want to add a bit of personal touch to your event, you can pay extra for customizations. A vacation on Turks and Caicos–taking in the sun, splashing in clear warm waters, and snorkeling amongst schools of colourful fish—plus a budget-friendly wedding? Seriously, the best decision ever!
Hard Rock Hotel and Casino Punta Cana
Calling all casino fanatics. The Hard Rock resort in Punta Cana is the ideal setting for couples who really know how to party. The place has a very strong atmosphere of “mature” grandeur. But we’re not saying the whole family wouldn’t enjoy it here either. There are some pretty eye-catching water slides poolside for the kids. As for the wedding, Hard Rock is willing to work with you no matter whether you’re eloping, getting married only in front of your closest loved ones, or getting married in front of everyone you know, or you’re hoping for a traditional Indian wedding. You also have your choice of wedding collections to help you perfect the feel of your beachside wedding—whether you want to get married in front of a circle of white flowers and bead strings, under an arch of curtains and flowers before rows of gold chairs, or under a wooden triangle.
Sandals Ochi (Ocho Rios)
Here’s another resort where guests who stay three or more nights can get a free wedding, with additional fees for customization. The main difference is we’re now in Ocho Rios, which has been called “A Garden of Eden in the heart of Jamaica.” Ocho Rios is no question a balmy paradise abundant in vibrant green vegetation, enclosed on either side by mountains and bright ocean. Sandals offers comfortable all-inclusive accommodations for those in need of some time at the beach. When you’re not worrying about the wedding, you can play golf on their 18-hole course, snorkel with the marine life, kayak into the ocean, watch a live show, or drift across the water in their glass-bottom boat.
Fontainebleau Miami
Who says you have to cross any ocean to have a beachside resort wedding? All you need to do is head to Florida! Fontainebleau is promising a stay full of fun, glamour, and yes…romance, if you’re heading there for a wedding or, needless to say, any other romantic getaway. Like any other beach vacation, you’re getting white sands and glorious blue ocean. However, Fontainebleau stands out with Golden Era-style aesthetics (that does, in fact, mean lots of gold features in their building designs), curvy architecture, and super modern appeal. From a hopping nightlife to a delicious and diverse array of dining options, and the potential to hold a reception outside on a lush green lawn, a wedding and stay at Fontainebleau Miami is sure to be a hit.
El Greco Resort Santorini
We confess you’ll have to book a more low-key wedding if you want this venue, but it’s in Santorini. The popular Greek island of iconic cliffside villages of porcelain-white cave-like buildings and blue-roofed The locale radiates romance, and the El Greco Resort has been designed to match the architecture that’s made Santorini so famous. Nonetheless, El Greco is smaller compared to the other resorts on our list, with only 200 rooms available. A destination wedding is still totally possible in this sublime resort with some careful planning, though. Volcano Hall is on site for ceremonies, and you may host dining events in the resort’s Ampelos Restaurant.
Jacob Carmichael | Contributing Writer
