We’ve all heard the saying before. It’s plastered all over television, radio and internet commercials and as soon as you hear the phrase “city of lights”, Vegas’ strip immediately comes to mind. Likewise, images of trashy drive-through weddings, crystal-encrusted Elvis impersonators and other cringe-worthy thoughts can pop up as well. Ever seen the movie “The Hangover?” This is often a bride’s worst nightmare – the boys go for a weekend in Vegas and end up narrowly making it to the church on time.
And, if you’re like me, you want to have an unforgettable, romantic day. This usually includes the basics: church or outdoor wedding ceremony, a fantastic reception with friends and family, then an unforgettable honeymoon to create memories that will last a lifetime. Think it can’t happen in Vegas?
Think again.
At Las Vegas there is truly a wedding and honeymoon for every lifestyle, every budget and every taste. From the extravagant and spacious to the quirky and unique, Vegas’ strip offers multiple chapels, churches, gardens and ceremony sites to please even choosy couples.
The nicest thing about Las Vegas’ marriage requirements is that there are very few. According to www.visitlasvegas.com, “Neither blood tests nor waiting periods are required if you want to tie the knot. The legal age is 18 for both men and women (proof of age is required) and licensing fees are $60. Civil ceremonies can be performed at the Marriage Commissioner's Office at 309 S. 3rd St.”
That’s it! Plus, for brides worried that they won’t be able to re-create an “at home” wedding feel, rest assured- most chapels and hotels can accommodate a larger bridal party and reception so no one has to be left behind! For this blog let’s concentrate on two big choices: hotels and chapel choices.
If you’re looking for themed weddings or honeymoon stays, there are endless options on the world-famous “Las Vegas Strip.” From the Egyptian Luxor, medieval Excalibur, sensual Paris, trendy Tropicana or flashy Golden Nugget (just to name a few), hotels in Vegas are dripping with lights, action, and romance. Each hotel seems a world unto itself once you pass from the noise and crowds of the streets to the inside lobby. If you choose to have your wedding and honeymoon at the same hotel, packages available may be able to save you some moola on your budget – a great perk even with the added savings of a destination wedding (more on that later).
Chapels, on the other hand, shout quintessential Las Vegas romance. There are many from which to choose and also have themes. One of my favorites happens to be the Chapel of the Flowers – a very versatile, serene option nestled within fresh gardens, and pristine chapels. Their website is cleanly designed and easy to navigate, with plenty of links to speak with someone right away if you’re confused. Testimonials from various age ranges and international travelers speak volumes of the staff. For a traditionalist like me, this Chapel would get my business in a heartbeat. But don’t take my word for it – there are themes for all sorts- 50’s, gothic, Celtic, bikers, car enthusiasts....chapel weddings are charming and fully customizable.
If you’ve ruled out a destination wedding before, there are some statistics that may change your mind. On a budget? Yeah, who isn’t? According to Travel Agent Academy in 2009, a traditional local wedding in Northeastern Ohio including church ceremony, reception dinner and site, photography and other services was upwards of $22,500. A destination wedding? $8,200....we don’t need to tell you about the math. And trying to plan and execute a destination wedding or honeymoon anywhere is pointless without a travel agent – they know all the best deals and can negotiate with travel suppliers (like hotels, airlines) to secure you a flawless travel experience at NO ADDITIONAL COST TO YOU. A travel agent doesn’t charge you anything extra for their fees or services, so you can spend your money where you really want to – on creating wedding and honeymoon memories with your fiancée.
We’ll be back next week with another destination, so stay tuned!
Viva Las Vegas!
KHM Honeymoons
Suggested Links:
www.honeymoonvacationspecialist.com – KHM’s unique approach to all your wedding travel needs!
www.visitlasvegas.com – The Official Las Vegas Tourist Site
www.littlechapel.com – The Little Chapel of the Flowers
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