Planning a wedding can be stressful. Even more so if you’re planning to get married in a different country from the one in which you currently reside.
While there can be challenges to planning a wedding abroad, the benefits, such as guaranteed sunshine instead of unpredictable British weather, often make it worthwhile.
In this post, we take a look at some of the top locations around the world to get married.
From scenic cityscapes to vibrant urban celebrations, each city listed has its unique charm, perfect for saying ‘I do’
1. Paris, France
Known around the world as the City of Love, could there be a more romantic place to get married than Paris?
Picture a rooftop ceremony with the Eiffel Tower as your backdrop, or an intimate exchange of vows in a quiet, charming Parisian garden. You could even have a custom keychain of the Eiffel Tower made as a wedding favour for each of your guests.
With world-class cuisine, elegant venues, and endless photo opportunities, Paris truly is the perfect setting for a destination wedding.
2. Las Vegas, USA
For couples seeking spontaneity, Las Vegas is the perfect place to tie the knot. While I didn’t get married there myself, I did visit for my honeymoon, and loved every second of it!
Las Vegas has it all. From quick and quirky chapel weddings (Elvis impersonator optional!) to full-scale luxury hotel celebrations, there’s something to suit every style and budget.
Planning your nuptials from abroad? With no lenghty waiting periods for marriage licenses and plenty of all-inclusive packages, getting married in Las Vegas couldn’t be easier.
Consider photo booth rental Las Vegas to add a fun and interactive element to your big day. It’s a great way to keep guests entertained, capturing candid moments and giving guests a lovely keepsake to take home with them.
3. Santorini, Greece
Santorini is simply one of the most stunning places in the world to get married, so I hope you’ll forgive me for including it in this list even though it’s a small island group rather than a city.
With its beautiful cliffside views, stunning whitewashed buildings, and breathtaking sunsets, there a no end of amazing photo opportunities to be had here.
Santorini is especially popular for small-to-medium-sized destination weddings that are looking for a luxurious but relaxed feel.
4. Venice, Italy
Looking for old-world charm? Then nothing could be better than Venice.
Consider arriving by gondola, marrying in a centuries-old palazzo, and then celebrating into the early hours with candlelit canals as your backdrop.
One small drawback is that Venice can be crowded with tourists. However, early morning or off-season weddings allow for a more intimate experience in this amazing city.
5. Cape Town, South Africa
Cape Town combines mountains, vineyards, and coastal views all in one amazing destination.
It’s an ideal option for more adventurous couples or those looking for a mix of natural beauty and modern luxury.
With its world-class food scene, delicious wines, and luxury accommodation, Cape Town is fast becoming a global wedding hotspot.
6. Bali, Indonesia
If you find the idea of a tropical paradise for your wedding appealing, Bali is the place to go. With oceanfront villas surrounded by lush greenery, Bali is the perfect destination for beachside ceremonies followed by boho chic receptions.
Bali is known for being more affordable than some other exotic destinations, which means you can have both beauty and quality even on a budget.
Tips For Getting Married Abroad
I hope this post has helped give you some inspiration for a destination ‘I do’.
However, there are some things you need to consider when getting married abroad, especially when it comes to both the planning and the legalities.
- Before getting married abroad, check that the marriage will be recognised in your home country, ensure you know which documents are needed for the ceremony and how long any pre-wedding waiting periods are.
- Alternatively, you could consider a very small legal ceremony at home before your big destination celebration.
- Get double copies of any official documents.
- Hire a wedding planner who both knows the area and speaks the local language (if applicable).
- Consider the weather and season – off-peak might be cheaper, but the weather can be unpredictable in some tropical locales.
No matter which destination you choose, your wedding is sure to be unforgettable.