Wed Away!
So you just got engaged and your dream wedding on a beautiful beach is feeling more and more like an unattainable fantasy? Stop right there! One of the most common misconceptions when it comes to planning a wedding is that destination weddings are always more expensive. Sure, they can be more pricey, but they don't have to be. You're almost guaranteed fewer guests than if you were to marry close to home, so you're saving there. Plus, if you stick to a low-key island vibe, chances are you won't get carried away splurging on unneccessary expenses.
One of my favorite destinations for a wedding away is Aruba (aruba.com). It's out of the hurricane belt, which means great weather year-round. It's also surprisingly affordable—for both you and your guests. Of course, it goes without saying that the water is crystal clear, the sand is supersoft and the sunsets are breathtaking.
Hip-hop producer Timbaland recently got married there and it was amazing. His guests stayed at the gorgeous Renaissance Aruba Resort & Casino (marriot.com) in the capital city of Oranjestad. The resort has the island's only private beach and the spa does incredible massages.
Another spectacular property is RIU Aruba-Palm Beach (riu.com). It's situated on one of the most beautiful beaches in all of the Caribbean—need I say more?
So don't be discouraged. Even in these uncertain economic times, you can still have the wedding of your dreams.
—Jeanine Edwards, Associate Editor
