Once the only an option for the rich and famous, beach weddings and weddings in tropical destinations are becoming more and more popular, and available, for the rest of us. With much of the Caribbean only a stone's throw from the US mainland, heading for the islands has never been easier!

So why set your sights on distant shores for a beach wedding? The answer seems simple - we get to travel as well as get married - but actually there is more than one reason to get married in another location and the benefits are numerous.

Cost Effective.

Destination Weddings are a cost effective way of hosting your wedding since both your wedding and your honeymoon are in the same place. Additionally, most resorts offer wedding packages at reduced rates, or even FREE, to guests who are staying a certain number of nights. All inclusive resorts roll out the red carpet to wedding guests offering them free gifts, reduced rates for their wedding-party, free wedding cake, and champagne and even a free wedding planner! Since Destination Weddings typically host about half the guest list of traditional weddings you can literally cut your reception budget in half.

Side Step Family Issues

A wedding away from home can ease tensions and expectations between you and your parents and in laws. There is less pressure to get married in the family church or to seat the grandparents at the head table at a Destination Wedding since all participants are more willing to accept that all aspects of the wedding are going to be different from the usual. Also, keep in mind that during the planning processes you won't be bogged down with family meetings to make every decision on your wedding...it will all be up to you and your partner!

Be Unique

A far off wedding allows you to embrace your imagination and your fantasies. If you feel like holding your ceremony on a beach, under palm trees in bikini and shorts then why not? By freeing yourself of the conventions of home life you give yourself permission to become creative about your special day. Try out local customs and traditions and explore exotic touches that will make your wedding unique and individual.

Hassle Free

Destinations around the world, and particularly in the Caribbean, have become savvy to the destination-bride and have literally done all of the work for you. Many locations have eased the rules and restrictions on getting married in their location in order to cater to offshore brides. Local wedding planners also take the stress out of the planning process by simply doing everything for you. Add this to the popular "on-site" wedding that most resorts offer and almost everything is taken care in advance of your arrival. All you need to do is make your choices and show up.

Perfect for Vow Renewals and Second Weddings

For those who have "been there, done that" a Destination Wedding can be the perfect alternative to the traditional wedding for second weddings and vow renewal ceremonies. With so many secluded and private resorts offering idyllically romantic packages for ceremonies on the beach, in tropical gardens, or under waterfalls couples get to have their wedding away from local town commentary. Some resorts/cruise lines also offer kids camps so that your respective offspring can have an opportunity to bond during the trip whilst you get a chance to spend quality time alone with your new spouse.

Fun for Your Guests

Instead of wishing you'd spent more time with friends and loved ones, the Destination Wedding gives you the time to do just that. Since many locations demand that you arrive a few days in advance of your wedding ceremony you have the chance to spend time with your guests over extended lunches and dinners and to truly "catch-up" in a relaxed atmosphere. An offshore weddings gives you a "reunion" opportunity whilst also providing you with memories to last forever.

The internet has made planning an island beach wedding a breeze, or as easy as planning any other type of wedding, at least! Web sites have sprung up, such as http://www.islandbrides.com, that provide pretty much everything you need to begin your planning, walking you through all the unique wedding destinations, and putting you in touch with local wedding planners, photographers, florists, hotels and resorts.

All you need to do is choose your island!