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What is a destination wedding? Everything you need to know

Destination weddings have become an increasingly popular option for couples looking to celebrate their love memorably and uniquely. Not only do they allow couples to celebrate their love in a unique and beautiful location, but they also offer an opportunity for couples to make unforgettable memories with their loved ones. But what is a destination wedding? Read this article for everything you need to know about it.

What are destination weddings?

A destination wedding is a marriage ceremony and reception held in a location away from the couple’s hometown. They are often in a picturesque or exotic setting, which can be as close as a few hours’ drive away or as far as a different country. The primary appeal of this type of wedding is its beauty, significance, or appeal as a travel destination.

Popular destinations for these weddings include beach resorts, historical cities, and picturesque countryside locations. For example, Cartagena, Colombia, has emerged as a favored wedding destination for many reasons, including its stunning colonial architecture, vibrant culture, and beautiful Caribbean coastline. You may want to check more reasons why Cartagena, Colombia has emerged as a top wedding destination.

Other popular destinations include the beaches of Hawaii, the castles of Scotland, the tropical resorts of the Caribbean, etc.

Planning your wedding? Let’s make a destination one! We will make sure your big day is seamless. Contact us today for customized assistance!

Benefits of a destination wedding

Unique and memorable experience

One of the main benefits of having this type of wedding is the opportunity to have a truly memorable and unique experience for you, your partner, and your guests. Unlike traditional weddings held in familiar venues, a destination wedding offers a fresh, exciting backdrop that can make the event truly unique and unforgettable.

Whether you choose to exchange vows on a sandy beach at sunset or in a centuries-old chapel in a quaint village, your destination wedding will be unlike any other. The type of activities, decorations, and setting of your destination wedding can even be tailored to your specific wedding dream and create a truly unique and memorable experience.

Moreover, your guests will get an opportunity to explore new destinations and make unforgettable memories and experiences of their own.

Combining wedding and honeymoon

A destination wedding can combine your wedding and honeymoon into one unforgettable experience. This not only simplifies planning but also can be more cost-effective. After the wedding ceremony, you can transition easily into your honeymoon without the need for additional travel arrangements.

Most wedding destination hotels and hotels offer exclusive honeymoon packages and amenities that include couples massages, private dinners, romantic excursions, etc.

Smaller guest list and more intimate gatherings

Destination weddings often allow you to have a smaller guest list and more intimate gatherings.

Since not every person will be able to travel to your chosen wedding destination, you can invite only your closest friends and family. This creates a more personal, relaxed, and meaningful wedding atmosphere where you can intimately connect with your guests and make lasting memories together.

The smaller guest list also means you will be able to splurge on other aspects of your destination wedding, such as the venue, entertainment, and decor.

Vacation opportunity for guests

For guests, this weddings offer an exciting opportunity to combine attending the wedding with a vacation. Your guests can enjoy the beauty and attractions of the destination before or after the wedding celebration.

Our wedding services offer concierge services, villa rentals, boat rentals, and other amenities that can enhance the overall experience for your guests. These services can help organize activities such as guided tours, adventure sports, spa days, and gourmet dining experiences. This ensures that every one of your guests has a wonderful time beyond just the wedding day.

Planning a Destination Wedding

Choosing the right destination wedding locations

Choosing the perfect wedding location is one of the most essential aspects of planning your wedding. When choosing the right location for your wedding, you may want to consider factors like accessibility, weather, local regulations, and the overall vibe you want for your wedding.

With that said, we recommend choosing a location that resonates with your personality, interests, visions, and dreams for your big day. The location must also offer the amenities and services needed to create your dream wedding.

If you are finding it hard to find a perfect location for your destination wedding, Two Travel got you covered. For instance, our wedding locations and venues offer all-inclusive packages that simplify planning.

Some of our wedding locations include:

Club de Pesca: This historic wedding venue is located in Cartagena, Colombia. It offers elegant colonial architecture and panoramic views of the bay, perfect for a romantic and picturesque wedding.
Movich hotels: These wedding venues are located in Colombia. They offer upscale wedding venues with modern amenities and stylish decor. This ensures a stylish and memorable wedding celebration in vibrant cities like Medellín and Cartagena.
Villa Estrella: This is a luxurious and intimate colonial villa located in the Walled City in Cartagena, Colombia. It is an intimate venue for up to 80 guests.
Fenix: This wedding location is located on an island near Cartagena. It offers a serene beachfront setting with natural beauty and rustic charm, ideal for a relaxed and intimate wedding celebration.

Cartagena is one of the best wedding destinations in the world for couples and their guests. Let our wedding planners organize your entire celebration for a unique experience.

Hiring a wedding planner

Planning your destination wedding involves complex logistics, which can be challenging to manage from afar. However, hiring a professional wedding planner can make the process much smoother.

Companies like Two Travel specialize in destination weddings and can handle everything, from legal requirements to managing logistics. Our wedding experts ensure that everything runs smoothly, meets your expectations, and allows you to focus on enjoying your big day.

Planning guest activities

To ensure your guests have an enjoyable and memorable experience, you need to plan a variety of activities that showcase the destination. Our concierge services can be instrumental in organizing these activities. For instance, we offer tailored experiences that cater to diverse interests. We also provide a well-rounded itinerary that ensures your guests not only attend a beautiful wedding but also create their own memorable vacation moments.

For example, in a destination like Cartagena, your guests might enjoy a guided walking tour of the historic walled city, a private yacht excursion, or a day trip to nearby islands.

We can plan your entire destination wedding to give you and your guests a unique and memorable experience. We customize your entire trip and accommodate all your wedding needs.

Conclusion

Destination weddings are an exciting and romantic way to make your big day even more unique and memorable. They give couples a chance to escape to a scenic location while celebrating their union with family and friends. The possibilities for an unforgettable experience are needless with destination weddings.

Planning a destination wedding can be challenging. However, with the right professional team and careful planning, your destination wedding can be an experience that you and your guests will treasure forever.

Are you planning an all-inclusive destination wedding? Let our professional wedding planners help you with everything you need!

Juan Arenas June 11, 2024June 24, 2024 Leave a comment Cartagena, Wedding Activities, Beach, Culture, Day, Night, wedding

The Ultimate Guide to Choosing the Perfect Destination Wedding Dress

Having your dream destination wedding begins with two things: finding your life partner and finding the perfect destination wedding dress for your big day. You have secured a life partner, now all that is left is to dive into the bridal fashion market and find the wedding dress to complete your dream celebration. The wedding dress is not just an outfit; it is a symbol of love, transcending fashion, and embodying dreams, hopes, and the personal style of the bride.

With so many wedding dresses available on the market, it can be daunting and time-consuming to choose the perfect dress for your wedding. With the help of Two Travel’s wedding directory, we are going to go through a few factors that can help you choose the perfect dress for your destination wedding.

Know Your Wedding Dress Budget

destination wedding dresses bride — Photo by: Fabiana Skubic

The first step in finding your dream wedding dress is setting a budget. Wedding dresses come in a wide range of prices, ranging from a few hundred to several thousand dollars. So, having a clear budget will help you narrow down your options and avoid overspending.

Begin by determining the maximum amount you are willing to spend on your dress. You should consider the full cost of the dress and all the associated costs, such as alterations, accessories, and potential shipping fees if buying from an international designer or retailer.

Once you have a clear budget, stick to it. Then communicate this to your bridal consultant, who can then recommend dresses within your price range. This will make the shopping experience more efficient and enjoyable.

NOTE: Some bridal boutiques offer financing plans on wedding dresses. Therefore, we recommend exploring these if you want to manage your budget more effectively.

Our wedding planners are well-versed in wedding budgets and can give you the best custom advice depending on your individual preference. Contact us today for more information.

Start Early

Timing is a vital factor when it comes to choosing a perfect wedding dress. For instance, you should start shopping for your dream wedding dress as early as possible. This will give you ample time to find the dress, order it, and schedule necessary fittings.

Most bridal boutiques/retailers need at least 9-12 months to fulfill an order, especially if the dress is custom-made. This is because wedding dresses often require alterations to ensure a perfect fit.

Additionally, starting early means you have enough time to explore various options without feeling rushed and can take advantage of any sales or discounts that might come up. Remember, it is always better to have extra time rather than feel rushed.

You also need to schedule your first fitting around 2-3 months before the wedding and the final fitting around 2-4 weeks before the big day. This ensures your wedding dress fits perfectly.

You can save time and resources by hiring the services of our team of expert wedding planners. We will help you acquire your dream wedding dress within a short time and at a relatively fair price.

Destination Wedding Dress Style

Many brides choose their wedding dresses depending on how these dresses look on them. For instance, wedding dresses come in various styles, each flattering different body types and personal preferences. Therefore, we recommend choosing a wedding dress that will highlight your best body features and make you feel stunning.

Here are some popular wedding dress styles that you may want to consider:

A-line: They are slim on top, fitted at the bodice, and gradually widen towards the hem, resembling the shape of an uppercase “A”. It is universally flattering and suits almost any body shape, as it creates a slimming effect while accentuating your waist.
Ball gowns: With a fitted bodice and full skirt, ball gowns are an ideal dress type for most body shapes, from average height to tall women. It is great for brides with a pear-shaped figure as it accentuates the waist and hides the lower body. This dress style may not be ideal for shorter brides as the bottom may overwhelm your small frame.
Mermaid dresses: They hug the body from the torso down to the knees and then flare out to the ground. It is a perfect choice for tall, petite brides and voluptuous brides who want to highlight their curves.
Trumpet or fit-and-flare dresses: They hug the body from chest to mid-thigh and then flare out to the ground. It is another dress style that will show off your curves in a very flattering manner.
Empire dresses: They hug the body at the bust and flare out to the ground. It is an extremely versatile style for most body shapes because of its forgiving high waistline.
Column, shift, or sheath dresses: They have a narrow shape that flows from the neckline straight down to the hem. It can be slightly fitted or not at all, depending on the designer. It is a timeless classic silhouette style that best suits brides who have soft curves and lean frames.

Tips for Flattering Your Body Type

Hourglass: Choose mermaid or trumpet styles that accentuate your waist and show off your curves.
Pear-shaped: Choose an A-line and ball gown style as they balance the proportions by emphasizing the upper body.
Apple: You should choose empire style or A-line dresses as they draw attention away from the midsection.
Petite: Choose a sheath or A-line dress as it elongates the body, creating a taller appearance.
Tall: Tall brides can carry off a variety of styles but look particularly stunning in sheath and A-line dresses.
Plus-size: You should choose empire style or A-line dresses, which offer comfort and style.

Two Travel has extensive knowledge and access to a vast range of wedding dress styles, so contact us today and we can discuss your needs in more detail.

Destination Wedding Dresses in Cartagena, Colombia

Cartagena, Colombia, is a popular destination for weddings, known for its vibrant culture, stunning beaches, and colonial architecture. You may want to check our other blog to understand why Cartagena is the perfect wedding destination.

When choosing a dress for your destination wedding in Cartagena, you should consider special considerations, such as the climate and location.

For instance, Cartagena’s warm and humid climate means you should choose a wedding dress made of lightweight fabrics, such as chiffon, tulle, or organza. These materials are breathable and will keep you comfortable and cool throughout the day.

Colombia is also renowned for its textile industry, which offers beautiful fabrics and skilled craftsmanship. The talented local designers in Cartagena make stunning wedding dresses that blend traditional and modern styles. Therefore, we recommend choosing a wedding dress designed and made in Cartagena.

The local designers understand the unique requirements of a destination wedding in this picturesque location. They are familiar with the climate and can suggest the best materials and styles for the setting. It also allows you to easily manage fittings and alterations, reducing last-minute stress and ensuring your dress fits perfectly on your big day.

If you are planning a destination wedding in Cartagena, we can help you pick the perfect custom wedding dress from a selection of talented designers. You only need to contact our experienced wedding planners.

plan your dream wedding

Theme and Wedding Venue

The theme and venue of your wedding play a significant role in choosing your ideal wedding dress. Whether your wedding theme is vintage, casual garden, classic, bohemian, modern, rustic, or romantic: your wedding dress should reflect this. For example, a sleek, minimalist gown is perfect for a modern city wedding, while a vintage lace dress would be perfect for a rustic, countryside wedding. Similarly, a beach-themed wedding might inspire a flowing, ethereal wedding gown.

You also need to choose your wedding dress depending on the venue. For example, For beach or garden weddings (outdoor venues), consider dresses that are comfortable, easy to move in, and made of lightweight fabrics and simple silhouettes. For grand ballrooms or historic churches (indoor venues), you might consider a more traditional, elegant, and formal gown with a long train and intricate details.

You should also remember that an outdoor wedding (garden, beach, or country) can be characterized by a bit of wind, sun, snow, rain, etc., depending on the weather. Therefore, we recommend choosing a wedding dress with a lighter fabric for a beach wedding. That will be graced by the sun. The goal is to choose a wedding gown that best syncs with whatever theme or venue you choose.

The season also plays a role in your dress choice. For summer weddings, choose a wedding dress made of breathable fabrics and lighter designs. For winter weddings, consider dresses with longer sleeves and heavier fabrics.

Wedding Venues in Cartagena that Influence the Choice of Dresses for Wedding

Two Lovers offers a variety of some of the best wedding venues in Cartagena, from luxurious beachfront resorts to charming colonial mansions. Each of our venues has unique features and seasonal weather conditions that can influence your choice of wedding dress. Here are our examples:

Villa Estrella: A summer wedding at Villa Estrella would suit a light, airy dress, possibly with shorter sleeves or an off-shoulder design. This will help you stay cool in the warm climate.
Club de Pesca: This venue offers a historical, elegant wedding setting. This encourages brides to choose sophisticated wedding dresses with traditional cuts and luxurious fabrics that match the grandeur of the venue.
Tamarindo: For a garden wedding at Tamarindo, a dress with floral appliques or pastel colors can match beautifully with the natural surroundings.
Movich: These venues, with their modern and chic ambiance, may inspire contemporary dress styles with clean lines and minimalistic elegance.

Final Tips For Your Wedding Dress

dding. By understanding your budget, starting early, considering your wedding venue and theme, and exploring different dress styles, you can find the wedding dress that makes you feel beautiful and confident. You should also not be afraid to explore local designers, especially if you are having a destination wedding in Cartagena, Colombia.

By keeping these tips in mind, you will be well on your way to finding the perfect dress for your dream wedding. Whether you are planning a local ceremony or a destination wedding in Cartagena, we are here to help you find the perfect dress that will make your wedding day as magical as you have always dreamed. Contact our experienced wedding planners for more information!

Juan Arenas June 4, 2024June 24, 2024 Leave a comment Cartagena, Wedding Activities, Beach, Culture, wedding

10 Reasons Why Cartagena, Colombia is The Perfect Wedding Destination Location

What comes to your mind when you think of a Cartagena wedding destination? Probably something extremely unique and extraordinary? Well, you are right! And Cartagena is a great place to celebrate your big day.

This beautiful destination has a lot to offer when it comes to wedding celebrations. Here are our 10 reasons why Cartagena is the perfect wedding destination spot.

1. Getting to Destination Wedding Locations in Cartagena is a Breeze

Cartagena’s accessibility is the first enchanting chapter in the tale of its wedding allure. Situated strategically on Colombia’s northern coast, Cartagena boasts an international airport with direct flights from major cities worldwide.

Only a 2.5-hour flight from Miami and a 5-hour flight from NYC, you are there. When you reach there, it is only a 10-minute drive from the airport to the center of the city for about $5, using Uber or easy Taxi apps. Once you are in the city, you can rent a boat to one of the surrounding islands, rent bikes, catch a cab, or pretty much walk to any destination.

This ease of access eliminates the hassle of multiple layovers, ensuring a smooth journey for couples and their guests.

2. Availability of all Types of Accommodations

Luxury Private Villa in Cartagena Colombia — Luxury Villa in Cartagena, Colombia.

Cartagena offers a variety of accommodations to suit every taste and budget. Whether you are looking for a romantic beachfront villa, a historic colonial mansion, or a modern boutique hotel, Cartagena has it all. You can also choose private villas in the walled city for you and your guests, being the best accommodation option as these villas come with a private pool, terrace, and rooftop and have all the amenities available such as private security, laundry, or private cook. In addition, there are villas available for all group sizes.

You can choose to stay in the heart of the Old City, where you will be surrounded by architectural beauty and historic charm. Alternatively, you can opt for a more secluded retreat in one of the city’s exclusive beachfront neighborhoods. This ensures that your wedding accommodations in Cartagena are as memorable and unique as the celebration itself.

Two Travel has access to a vast range of resorts, villas, and mansions in Cartagena, so contact us today and we can discuss your needs in more detail.

SEE ALL AVAILABLE VILLAS

3. Cartagena Has Perfect Weather For a Destination Wedding

Best Rooftop in Cartagena Colombia for bachelor party

The weather in Cartagena is perfect for a destination wedding. In most parts of the city, it is sunny and warm, with clear blue skies year-round, with only a few rainy days per month. This means that you and your guests enjoy beautiful weather on your wedding day.

The sun-kissed looks are also popular in Cartagena. So, having a destination wedding in Cartagena will ensure that you and your guests will look fabulous in all your wedding photos.

Moreover, it is always beach season in Cartagena. So, whether you are saying “I do” with your toes in the sand or dancing the night away under the stars by the ocean, Cartagena’s beach weddings provide a magical setting for a wedding that is romantic and unforgettable.

4. Unlimited Pre and Post-Wedding Event Options

Whether you dream of an intimate elopement or a lavish celebration with hundreds of guests, our wedding planner service in Cartagena is dedicated to bringing your vision to life and creating a day that exceeds your wildest dreams. First and foremost, our roots are here in the vibrant heart of Cartagena’s Old City, exactly where your dream wedding will unfold. This guarantees that every decision you make is backed by our on-the-ground support.

Beach Clubs
Boat Day
Villa Brunch
Rehearsal Dinners in a Private Restaurant or Villa
Tours & Experiences

In Two Lovers by Two Travel we handle everything from A to Z. We’ve successfully brought over 100 weddings to life in breathtaking locations, including exclusive villas, historic churches, and elegant venue halls. No matter the size of your celebration, from 50 to 250 guests, our dedicated team and trusted partners are committed to crafting the wedding day you’ve always envisioned.

Save yourselves from days of grueling planning and stress. Plan your wedding with us!

5. So Many Magical Wedding Destination Venues

One of the most captivating aspects of Cartagena as a wedding destination is the plethora of enchanting venues it offers. From historic churches steeped in centuries-old charm to opulent colonial-era mansions adorned with lush gardens and ornate courtyards, the city presents a kaleidoscope of options to suit every couple’s vision and preferences.

Imagine exchanging vows amidst the timeless beauty of the San Pedro Claver Church, or celebrating your union in the grandeur of a restored colonial mansion-turned-hotel. With such an array of magical venues at your disposal, Cartagena ensures that your wedding day unfolds like a fairytale come to life.

Contact us today for your magical and best destination wedding venue!

6. Experiences For Your Guests

private boat rental cartagena colombia — *Rent a Luxury Private Boat*

Saying “I do” in a typical destination wedding can be boring for guests who are passionate about the ceremony. However, if you have your destination wedding in Cartagena, you and your guests will be able to enjoy different kinds of activities and experiences.

From snorkeling in the crystal-clear waters of the Rosario Islands and dancing the night away at one of the city’s lively salsa clubs to exploring the colorful streets of Getsemaní and sampling local cuisine at the bustling Mercado de Bazurto, there are plenty of things to do in Cartagena. This means that your guests will be able to enjoy themselves even if they’re not particularly interested in the wedding itself.

Couples can also embark on romantic sunset cruises, take cooking classes together, or simply relax and unwind on the city’s beautiful beaches.

Our Concierge service can take care of everything for you, your partner, and all your guests. For your guests, we offer complimentary concierge services, so your family and friends don’t have to worry about finding where to stay, or what to do in the city. We are the only wedding planners to offer such a service and it’s one of the things that separates us from all other destination wedding coordinators. Our goal is simple: make the process as streamlined as possible without sacrificing any quality.

7. Warm Hospitality

Planning a wedding away from home can seem daunting. However, everything becomes more manageable when involving Cartagena and its people. Cartagena’s warm hospitality is the heart and soul of its allure as a wedding destination.

From the moment couples and their guests set foot in the city, they are greeted with genuine warmth, kindness, smiles, and friendliness that is characteristic of Colombian culture.

Whether you are checking into your luxury private villa, dining at a local restaurant, or exploring the city’s historic streets, you can expect to be treated like family by the locals. This warm welcome sets the tone for a wedding experience that is not only unforgettable but also deeply enriching.

8. Irresistible Food and Local Flavor

No wedding in Cartagena would be complete without indulging in the city’s vibrant gastronomic scene and rich culinary heritage. From fine dining at one of the many traditional Colombian cuisine restaurants and enjoying fresh ceviche at La Cevicheria to sipping a Lemonade de Coco at Cafe Del Mar, Cartagena is a city filled with culture that shines through their food.

With its fusion of cultural influences and flavors, Cartagena invites couples and their guests to embark on a culinary journey that reflects the essence of Colombian warmth and hospitality and warmth.

9. Photo-Worthy Backdrops

For couples seeking breathtaking backdrops to commemorate their special day, Cartagena offers an abundance of picture-perfect settings.

The city’s vibrant streets, which feature bougainvillea-draped balconies and pastel-hued facades, serve as a stunning backdrop for romantic strolls and candid wedding snapshots.

Moreover, the historic walls of the Old City feature never-ending allure and panoramic views of the Caribbean Sea. This provides an enchanting setting for capturing moments of love and joy for your wedding.

Whether you are posing against the backdrop of the iconic Clock Tower or stealing a kiss amidst the colonial charm of Plaza de San Diego, Cartagena ensures that every frame tells a story of eternal romance.

10. Affordable Cost

One of the most appealing aspects of Cartagena as a wedding destination is its affordability. Compared to other popular wedding destinations, such as Europe or other Caribbean destinations, Cartagena offers excellent value for money without compromising on quality or luxury.

From venue rentals and catering to accommodations and transportation, couples will find that they can create their dream wedding in Cartagena at a fraction of the cost of other destinations. This allows them to allocate more of their budget towards creating unforgettable experiences for themselves and their guests.

More Reasons to Pick Cartagena Destination Wedding

We are pretty sure after reading this article, you will begin searching for the best destination weddings in Cartagena. It will not only be a memorable day for you and your partner, your guests will also have the perfect excuse to discover and explore this adorable city.

So, let us know your Cartagena wedding fantasies and we will make your Cartagena wedding dreams come true. We are always glad to help you plan your big day!

Juan Arenas April 5, 2024June 24, 2024 Leave a comment Wedding Activities, Beach, Culture, wedding