Who doesn’t want to see their name in shining lights? These creative couples each found a clever way to celebrate with these fabulous wedding marquee signs! From the “Mr. & Mrs.” to “Just Married,” there’s so many fun ways to brighten up the night. These great ideas are straight from our Real Weddings Library, where you can find tons of amazing wedding decor inspiration!
We are just weeks away from selecting the final images for our first Love Around the World – Best of the Best Destination Photography Collection, judged in part by these phenomenal photographers, davina + daniel. We’re counting down to this fabulous contest with Eliza and Seth’s stunning destination wedding in La Antigua, Guatemala. Photographers, if you want your images seen by the photography geniuses that are Davina and Daniel, submit your images now!
The Goals: We wanted our wedding to be absolutely unforgettable, so our priorities were location and photography. We chose Antigua, Guatemala because it is colorful, small, and romantic. We couldn’t have picked a better place to bring all of our favorite people together. Knowing the levels of positive energy and love that our guests were sure to bring to the occasion, finding the perfect photographs to capture everything was of the utmost importance.
The Design:San Jose el Viejo (our venue) was built in the 1700’s and made a perfect backdrop for the evening. We were going for an elegant-yet-simple vibe, so flowers and candles (a lot of them) were really all that was needed to make the beautiful ruins feel even more magical. The short ceremony was performed by my uncle, and only our siblings stood up with us. My sisters wore gold sequined gowns which looked so dazzling in the candlelight. I am a huge fan of getting dressed up and feeling fancy, so we encouraged our guests to bring their A-game and dress up, too, because why not!? We had Guatemalan themed favors for both the rehearsal and the wedding- luggage tags, hot sauces, local chocolate and liquor. Seth’s mom helped us SO MUCH with executing our vision. Our wedding would not have come to life like it did without her.
The Photography: We are photography purists and were not interested in the generic wedding photos that you see all over the internet. We were drawn to davina + daniel because they are beyond talented and in our opinion, no one else compared to their unique style. After meeting with them and discovering that they are also two of the nicest people ever, we knew. We seriously could have gotten married in a cardboard box on the side of a highway somewhere and they would have made it look like a million dollar wedding. Davina and Daniel were such a dream to work with – they’re such a great team and there is something so wonderful about not having a single doubt that your photos are going to be amazing. We cried when they sent us the first round (put into a slideshow with a song they picked out just for us).
The Advice: Work together and don’t overthink things. The planning process is going to be overwhelming at times so do not sweat the small stuff and stay focused on the fact that simply having your family and friends in the same location is going to be amazing. Split up the planning tasks based on your individual skills. In our case Seth took care of the budget and logistics and Eliza was in charge of the aesthetics. Do your best not to procrastinate because the wedding day has a way of sneaking up on you.
Selecting the best location for your reception is one of the biggest decisions, and most pivotal, you’ll make when planning your wedding. A stylish venue can set the tone for your entire wedding day, and with the most popular sites often booking far in advance, it’s important to secure your venue early in your planning process. Whether you’re envisioning a traditional ballroom wedding, a uniquely modern celebration, or a destination wedding and honeymoon, consider these tips to ensure the venue you choose is the place that feels just right for you.
When choosing your reception site, you’ll want to love the look and feel of the space itself, and you’ll want to be sure that the venue is the perfect size to accommodate your guests gracefully as your wedding day unfolds. To get started, choose several top venues you’re interested in or have your wedding planner help you create a list of your best options. Call and make appointments with their on-site coordinator or catering manager and bring this list of questions with you on your visits.
What services does the venue provide as part of your package? Many reception sites provide complete packages: catering, cake, staff, tableware and linens, which can be helpful if you love what they offer. Other sites charge a simple rental fee for their space, and leave the rest of the details up to you. To find the option that works best for your wedding, ask yourself how much you would like to personalize your celebration and what that will entail, or decide on a more all-inclusive approach. You’ll also want to ask about what is not included, but may be available.
Does the venue have a preferred vendor list? Many venues have a list of exemplary caterers and professionals that they choose to work with, and they may charge an additional fee for a wedding professional who is not on that list. Some venues require that you work with their exclusive list, and still others will allow you to choose any professionals you desire. If you’re set on hiring a particular caterer or florist be sure that your venue will welcome your choice.
How does the venue work as your day unfolds? To answer this, ask for a tour of the site as if it was your wedding day. In addition to your ceremony and reception site ask to see getting ready rooms, parking areas, restrooms and all areas your guests will access. If you are using any areas for more than one purpose, have your guide explain how those transitions will unfold and how much time it will take for break down and set-up.
How many hours will the space be available? It’s typical for venues to rent out the space for a certain time block of time. You’ll want to have ample time for your ceremony and reception, so be sure you secure all the time you desire.
What is your beverage and food minimum? If the venue itself is providing your food and drinks, they will likely have a minimum amount you are required to spend. Keep in mind this is a minimum and you should think about your guest count for a better idea of overall cost.
Will there be a day-of coordinator on site? Many locations will have staff on hand to help turn rooms as needed and assist you or your planner with the last-minute arrangements. They are there to ensure that everything that the venue has been contracted to provide is delivered smoothly and that you have all your questions answered as they arise. Keep in mind that they work for the venue, so it is usually helpful if not critical to have your own planner and/or designer on board to take care of your priorities.
Whether you choose a world-class destination resort, a charming garden, private estate, or rustic barn – the possibilities are seemingly endless. Read on and get inspired to find perfect spot that reflects your personality.
If your guest list is long and you want the feel of classic elegance, a grand hotel ballroom may be your ideal choice. Most have plenty of space, and some can be incredibly ornate in their style and decor, making it easy for you to create an impressive backdrop for your guests.
For a unique wedding site that still give off a sophisticated vibe, think mansions, historical buildings or castles. Many of these venues are privately owned, and many have an intimate and personal feel.
For an exclusive setting and picturesque backdrop, private clubs and golf courses are typically immaculately maintained and well-staffed. Choosing one can give your guests entrance to a location they wouldn’t be able to visit otherwise, while offering stunning backdrops options for your photographer.
A beautiful garden or park can offer an abundance of natural decor for your ceremony. If you can visit the location at the time of year when you will be getting married to get an idea of the colors and flowers in bloom at that time.
For a comfortable event with a bit of a cowboy vibe, choose a ranch or country farm. Rustic, elegant barn settings have been all the rage for years and many couples and designers have found super creative ways to make barns look beautiful.
Private estates are available for rent all over the world, and no matter your style you can find one that’s ideal for your wedding. If you own, or have access to a large house with entertainment spaces getting married at your own home, or that of a close friend of family member, can help make your wedding memorable and especially sentimental.
If your style is modern and you prefer an urban setting, try a local art museum or gallery, a hip restaurant, or an industrial loft space.
If you live near the water, check out large tour boats and cruise ships available for rent. Choose a beautiful boat with plenty of cabin space in case it rains, so your guests can revel in the view regardless of the weather.
Do you two share a love of wine and wide-open scenery? Then consider getting married at a winery. There are lots of fabulous wineries who specialize in weddings, and many are well-known for their world-class food and wine.
If you aren’t completely familiar with your far-away wedding location, hire a planner who is based in that area or who specializes in it. You’ll save on stress and confusion if you have a connection to your chosen locale.
A private beach wedding can be utterly romantic and picturesque – when choosing the best possible spot, utilize the natural landmarks like rock formations or overlooks to frame your ceremony and be sure your decor is built to handle ocean breezes.
Traveling to a far-away wedding is exciting but also calls for plenty of prep time. Send your guests save-the-dates at least six months in advance and provide them with detailed travel info around the same time you send out your final invitations.
Whatever your wedding style, be sure to visit our World’s Best Wedding Venues Hotlist which showcases both local and destination venues around the world. We have hidden gems and luxury resorts, sparkling city ballrooms and elegant country estates; all chosen for the high level of service and the quality experiences they provide!
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