Traditional weddings have their charm, but maybe you and your partner want something different – something that feels more ‘you’. A destination wedding, a celebration far from home, is the perfect choice for couples who love to travel and aren’t afraid of a little adventure. If you’re ready to embrace the possibilities of a destination wedding, be prepared to think outside the box. The sky’s the limit (literally)!

The New York Times recently showcased some incredible couples who tied the knot in some of the world’s most breathtaking and challenging environments. Think hiking nine days to stand at Mount Everest’s base camp to exchange vows, or skiing down a mountain in your wedding dress! 

Imagine this: standing on a windswept mountaintop, breathtaking views all around, as you exchange vows with the love of your life. Or picture mouthing “I do” surrounded by marine life – your only witnesses. It’s not a movie scene – it’s the awesome reality of destination weddings! More and more couples are ditching ballrooms and churches for unique locations that really say something about who they are as a couple.

Why Extreme Weddings Are Trending

• Unforgettable experiences: An extreme wedding isn’t just about amazing photos. It’s about the whole journey it takes to get there – the excitement leading up to it, the challenge you face together and the incredible feeling of accomplishment when you reach that “I do” moment.

• Uniquely yours: Let’s face it, scaling a cliff face or diving to an underwater altar pretty much guarantees you a wedding that’s totally different! It’ll be a reflection of you as a couple, unlike anything anyone else has experienced.

• Intimate focus: Extreme locations often mean fewer guests, which is actually a bonus. It creates a special intimacy, where you, your partner and your commitment take center stage. 

The possibilities for destination weddings are endless! Let these ideas spark your imagination:

• Mountaintop ceremonies: Hike hand-in-hand to a remote peak for your vows, or maybe add a twist and ski down to your reception in full wedding attire!

• Underwater adventures: Trade in your wedding dress for your scuba gear and descend into a world of marine life for a truly unforgettable ceremony.

• High celebrations: Say “I do” floating above it all in a hot air balloon, or take an extra exhilarating approach with a skydiving ceremony.

If you’re feeling adventurous, here’s some advice:

Be realistic: Pick an adventure that’s a good fit for you, your partner and your guests. If rock climbing isn’t everyone’s thing, that’s okay! There are plenty of ways to make it exciting.

Safety first: Whatever you choose, make sure you’ve got the right precautions in place. It’s your wedding day, not a survival challenge!

Build the right team:Find amazing vendors who get your vision. Look for photographers, officiants, and planners who aren’t afraid to go the extra mile.

Whether it’s a mountaintop, a secluded beach accessible only by boat, or the depths of a coral reef, your destination wedding can be a thrilling way to say, “I do!” If the idea gets your heart racing, then go for it! It’ll be a start to your marriage that you’ll never forget.

Where will you take your destination wedding?