Almost one-quarter of weddings in 2014 were
destination weddings, according to The Knot’s annual Real Weddings Study. Such weddings offer numerous benefits, such as smaller guest lists.
The average wedding cost $31,213 in 2014, with Manhattan, New York, being the most expensive U.S. location at an average wedding cost of $76,328 and Utah being the least expensive at $15,257, the study said.
In the United States, the most popular states for
destination weddings include Florida, California and Nevada, Fox News reported.
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Here are five trending wedding destinations.
1. Hawaii
With balmy breezes, plenty of beaches and lush green mountains, Hawaii's romantic heft cannot be overstated for a wedding. Plus, there's plenty of things to do to celebrate — with bike-riding, hiking to the top of a volcano or even learning to paddle board in the ocean. Or you can be mellow, languishing on a warm beach, frolicking in the waves or even reading poolside after your big event.
Try the Olowalu Plantation House in Maui, Brides.com suggests.
2. Bar Harbor, Maine
It's a decidedly different East Coast adventure, but with rocky cliffs, crisp waters and cool breezes, Maine marks a perfect summer getaway for couples looking for a different sort of scenic wedding locale,
The Knot notes. Another Maine wedding destination: The Barn at Flanagan Farm in Buxton, Maine, said Brides.com.
3. New York City
If urbanity is your thing and you need a venue with history and a view, the Gramercy Park Hotel's rooftop could be just the place for both ceremony and after party,
Brides.com notes.
4. Mexico
Far enough to be exotic but close enough to hop a quick flight for most is Mexico,
notes Fodors, which calls it a top destination for weddings. Among the areas for a beach marriage ceremony are Acapulco, Cancun, Cozumel, Riviera Maya, Los Cabos, Mazatlan and Puerto Vallarta, the travel site said.
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5. Bahamas
Also an accessible beach destination — the Bahamas, where turquoise waters, pristine beaches and a low-key vibe greet wedding-goers, Fodors said. Couples can choose from well-known islands like New Providence, Grand Bahama, Bimini, Abacos, Eleuthera and Andros, but there are plenty of cays and "out islands" that offer privacy for the most secluded of nuptials, Fodors said.
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