Couples say 'I do, I do' to destination weddings
SUNNY GETAWAYS | Florida is among popular locations
BY KATHY HAGOOD

Destination weddings are becoming the rage as couples discover the advantages of traveling to host their wedding in a glamorous location. Popular destinations include St. Augustine, Fla., the Florida Keys, the Caribbean islands and Cancun, Mexico. A destination wedding solves the dilemma of whether to hold the nuptials in the couple's hometown or where they now live. The option is ideal for couples who have family and friends living in far-flung locations.

According to the most recent survey of the Conde Nast Bridal Group, publishers of Brides, Modern Bride and Elegant Bride, about 16 percent of all couples are choosing to have a destination wedding. That's 400 percent increase in the past 10 years. While the average wedding costs about $27,852, couples who have a destination wedding spend an average of $25,806, the survey found. The typical destination wedding includes 63 guests vs. 165 guests for a standard wedding. And they tend to be a bit more affluent than the average couple, having an average household income of $93,000 vs. $74,000.

Many locales and the resorts, hotels and inns that serve this niche group are full service with local wedding coordinators assisting with the details. "Top locations, including our own, are vying to impress couples, so they cater to each couples' specific wedding needs," said Barbara Golden, communications manager for the St. Augustine, Ponte Vedra & The Beaches Visitors & Convention Bureau. The Wedding Authority, a bridal consulting business, helps couples to plan weddings at various venues in St. Augustine. No matter where one goes, it can take the special day to new heights.

"Here are a few of the most popular destination wedding locations and what they have to offer.

St. Augustine's Old World ambience appeals to those seeking a rich, historical backdrop to their wedding. The ancient city also is a cornucopia of delightful bed and breakfasts and inns, many of which are perfect for small weddings.

Casa de Solana, for example, features a walled courtyard and several historic buildings to host intimate weddings and receptions. The main house of Casa de Solana is constructed of coquina stone blocks, the same material used to build the nearby fort, Castillo de San Marco.

For larger weddings, St. Augustine has numerous public venues, including the Alcazar Hotel/Lightner Museum courtyard and chapel. An elegant reception hall is available for weddings held there. A couple and its guests will find plenty to do in the St. Augustine area. The city itself is chockful of historical points of interest, including the Oldest House Museum. Nearby Ponte Vedra is home to numerous LPGA championship courses.

Other attractions include the San Sebastian Winery, Old Saint Augustine Village, the Alligator Farm and St. Augustine Lighthouse and Museum.

Guests will want to take a sunset sail or pirate ghost tour on the Schooner Freedom, an authentic replica of a 19th century blockade runner. City ghost tours are also available.

For more information on Casa de Solana, visit www.casade solana.com. And for more information on a wedding at the Alcazar Hotel/Lightner Museum courtyard or chapel, visit www.theweddingauthority.net.