Destination Wedding Venues in the US: Tropical, Mountain, and Coastal

Tropical Wedding Venues in the US Paradise Found
Dreaming of saying "I do" with your toes in the sand and the sound of waves crashing in the background? A tropical destination wedding in the US might be just what you're looking for! Think swaying palm trees, vibrant sunsets, and a relaxed, romantic atmosphere. The US has some incredible tropical options, from the sunny beaches of Florida to the exotic islands of Hawaii. Let's dive into some of the best:
Florida Keys: A Classic Tropical Escape
The Florida Keys offer a classic tropical vibe without the need for a passport. Imagine exchanging vows on a secluded beach in Islamorada or Key West. The turquoise waters and laid-back atmosphere are perfect for a relaxed and fun wedding. Plus, there are tons of activities for your guests, from snorkeling and diving to fishing and exploring the local culture.
Recommended Products and Usage Scenarios:
- Sunscreen: Essential for any tropical wedding! Consider the EltaMD UV Clear Broad-Spectrum SPF 46. It's lightweight, oil-free, and great for sensitive skin. Price: Around $36. Usage: Apply liberally 15 minutes before sun exposure and reapply every two hours.
- Bug Spray: Keep those pesky mosquitos away with a natural bug spray like Repel Lemon Eucalyptus Insect Repellent. Price: Around $8. Usage: Spray evenly on exposed skin, avoiding the eyes and mouth.
- Personalized Beach Towels: A fun and practical wedding favor! Sites like Etsy offer custom beach towels with your names and wedding date. Price: Varies depending on quantity and customization, but expect to pay around $20-30 per towel. Usage: Guests can use them at the beach, pool, or as a keepsake.
Product Comparison: Sunscreen
When choosing sunscreen for your wedding, consider these factors:
- SPF Level: Aim for at least SPF 30.
- Broad Spectrum: Protects against both UVA and UVB rays.
- Water Resistance: Important for swimming and sweating.
- Ingredients: Look for mineral-based sunscreens (zinc oxide and titanium dioxide) for sensitive skin.
Here's a quick comparison:
Product | SPF | Broad Spectrum | Water Resistance | Price |
---|---|---|---|---|
EltaMD UV Clear | 46 | Yes | 80 minutes | $36 |
Neutrogena Ultra Sheer Dry-Touch | 55 | Yes | 80 minutes | $11 |
Thinkbaby Safe Sunscreen | 50 | Yes | 80 minutes | $18 |
Hawaii The Ultimate Tropical Paradise
For a truly unforgettable tropical wedding, Hawaii is hard to beat. Each island offers its own unique charm, from the lush rainforests of Kauai to the volcanic landscapes of the Big Island. Imagine exchanging vows with a stunning ocean view and the sweet scent of plumeria in the air.
Recommended Products and Usage Scenarios:
- Floral Leis: A traditional Hawaiian welcome gift for your guests. Local florists can create beautiful leis using fresh flowers. Price: Varies depending on the type of flowers and size, but expect to pay around $15-30 per lei. Usage: Present the leis to your guests upon arrival.
- Hawaiian Shirt for the Groom: A fun and festive alternative to a traditional suit. Many local shops offer stylish Hawaiian shirts in various colors and patterns. Price: Around $50-100. Usage: The groom can wear it during the ceremony or reception.
- Underwater Camera: Capture amazing memories of your honeymoon adventures. The GoPro HERO10 Black is a great option for capturing high-quality photos and videos underwater. Price: Around $400. Usage: Use it while snorkeling, diving, or swimming.
Product Comparison: Underwater Cameras
Consider these factors when choosing an underwater camera:
- Image Quality: Look for a camera with high resolution.
- Waterproof Depth: Make sure it can withstand the depth you plan to dive.
- Ease of Use: Choose a camera that's easy to operate underwater.
- Battery Life: Consider how long the battery lasts.
Here's a quick comparison:
Product | Image Quality | Waterproof Depth | Ease of Use | Price |
---|---|---|---|---|
GoPro HERO10 Black | 5.3K Video, 23MP Photos | 33ft (10m) | Very Easy | $400 |
Olympus TG-6 | 12MP Photos | 50ft (15m) | Easy | $450 |
SeaLife Sea Dragon Mini 3000S | 12MP Photos | 200ft (60m) | Moderate | $500 |
Mountain Wedding Venues in the US Majestic Views and Rustic Charm
If you're dreaming of a wedding with breathtaking views and a touch of rustic charm, a mountain destination wedding in the US might be perfect for you. Think snow-capped peaks, lush forests, and cozy fireplaces. The US offers a variety of stunning mountain locations, from the Rocky Mountains to the Appalachian Mountains. Let's explore some top choices:
Aspen Colorado A Luxurious Mountain Escape
Aspen, Colorado, is known for its stunning scenery and luxurious amenities. Imagine exchanging vows with the majestic Rocky Mountains as your backdrop. Aspen offers a range of venues, from elegant hotels to rustic lodges, making it perfect for a sophisticated mountain wedding.
Recommended Products and Usage Scenarios:
- Pashmina Shawls: Keep your guests warm and stylish with pashmina shawls. You can find them in various colors and materials online or at local boutiques. Price: Around $20-50 per shawl. Usage: Provide them to guests during the ceremony or reception, especially if it's an outdoor event.
- Fire Pit: Create a cozy atmosphere with a fire pit. Portable fire pits are available at hardware stores and online retailers. Price: Around $100-300. Usage: Set it up near the reception area for guests to gather around and enjoy the warmth.
- S'mores Kit: A fun and delicious treat for your guests. Create a s'mores kit with graham crackers, marshmallows, and chocolate bars. Price: Around $20-40 per kit, depending on the quantity. Usage: Set up a s'mores station near the fire pit.
Product Comparison: Fire Pits
Consider these factors when choosing a fire pit:
- Fuel Type: Choose between wood-burning, propane, or natural gas.
- Size: Consider the size of your venue and the number of guests.
- Material: Choose a durable and weather-resistant material.
- Safety Features: Look for a fire pit with a spark screen.
Here's a quick comparison:
Product | Fuel Type | Size | Material | Price |
---|---|---|---|---|
Solo Stove Bonfire | Wood Burning | Medium | Stainless Steel | $400 |
Outland Living Mega Fire Pit | Propane | Large | Steel | $250 |
Bond Manufacturing Newcastle Propane Fire Pit Table | Propane | Medium | Steel | $350 |
Asheville North Carolina A Charming Appalachian Getaway
Asheville, North Carolina, offers a charming and rustic mountain wedding experience. Nestled in the Blue Ridge Mountains, Asheville boasts stunning views, cozy cabins, and a vibrant arts scene. It's perfect for couples who want a relaxed and intimate mountain wedding.
Recommended Products and Usage Scenarios:
- Blankets: Keep your guests warm during cool mountain evenings with cozy blankets. You can find them at local stores or online retailers. Price: Around $30-60 per blanket. Usage: Drape them over chairs or provide them in baskets for guests to use.
- String Lights: Create a magical atmosphere with string lights. Hang them around trees, buildings, or tents. Price: Around $20-40 per string. Usage: Use them to illuminate the reception area or create a romantic ambiance.
- Local Craft Beer: Treat your guests to local craft beer from Asheville's many breweries. Price: Varies depending on the brewery and beer type. Usage: Serve it at the reception or offer it as a welcome gift.
Product Comparison: Blankets
Consider these factors when choosing blankets:
- Material: Choose a warm and comfortable material like fleece, wool, or cotton.
- Size: Choose a size that's large enough to cover your guests.
- Color: Choose a color that complements your wedding theme.
- Washability: Choose a blanket that's easy to wash.
Here's a quick comparison:
Product | Material | Size | Color | Price |
---|---|---|---|---|
Eddie Bauer Cabin Fleece Throw | Fleece | 50" x 60" | Various | $30 |
Pendleton Yakima Camp Throw Blanket | Wool | 60" x 72" | Various | $200 |
Threshold Chunky Knit Throw Blanket | Cotton | 50" x 60" | Various | $50 |
Coastal Wedding Venues in the US Ocean Views and Seaside Romance
Dreaming of a wedding with breathtaking ocean views and the sound of seagulls in the background? A coastal destination wedding in the US might be the perfect choice. Think sandy beaches, dramatic cliffs, and charming seaside towns. The US offers a variety of stunning coastal locations, from the rugged coast of Maine to the sunny shores of California. Let's explore some top options:
Maine A Picturesque New England Coastline
Maine offers a picturesque New England coastline with rocky shores, charming lighthouses, and quaint fishing villages. Imagine exchanging vows with the Atlantic Ocean as your backdrop. Maine is perfect for couples who want a classic and romantic coastal wedding.
Recommended Products and Usage Scenarios:
- Lobster Bake: A traditional Maine wedding feast. Many catering companies offer lobster bakes for weddings. Price: Varies depending on the number of guests and menu, but expect to pay around $50-100 per person. Usage: Serve it at the reception for a truly authentic Maine experience.
- Nautical-Themed Favors: Give your guests nautical-themed favors, such as miniature lighthouses, seashells, or personalized compasses. Price: Varies depending on the favor, but expect to pay around $5-10 per favor. Usage: Place them at each guest's place setting.
- Cozy Sweaters: Keep your guests warm during cool coastal evenings with cozy sweaters. You can find them at local stores or online retailers. Price: Around $50-100 per sweater. Usage: Provide them to guests during the ceremony or reception, especially if it's an outdoor event.
Product Comparison: Cozy Sweaters
Consider these factors when choosing cozy sweaters:
- Material: Choose a warm and comfortable material like wool, cashmere, or cotton.
- Style: Choose a style that complements your wedding theme.
- Color: Choose a color that complements your wedding theme.
- Fit: Choose a sweater that fits well and is comfortable to wear.
Here's a quick comparison:
Product | Material | Style | Color | Price |
---|---|---|---|---|
L.L.Bean Fisherman Sweater | Wool | Crewneck | Various | $99 |
Everlane The Cashmere Crew | Cashmere | Crewneck | Various | $135 |
Madewell Cotton-Blend Cable Knit Sweater | Cotton Blend | Crewneck | Various | $88 |
California Dreaming A Golden State Coastal Celebration
California offers a diverse coastline with stunning beaches, dramatic cliffs, and vibrant cities. Imagine exchanging vows with the Pacific Ocean as your backdrop. California is perfect for couples who want a glamorous and unforgettable coastal wedding.
Recommended Products and Usage Scenarios:
- Sunglasses: Protect your guests' eyes from the California sun with stylish sunglasses. You can find them at local stores or online retailers. Price: Around $20-50 per pair. Usage: Provide them to guests upon arrival.
- Beach Umbrellas: Provide shade for your guests with beach umbrellas. You can rent them from local rental companies. Price: Varies depending on the rental company, but expect to pay around $20-40 per umbrella. Usage: Set them up on the beach for guests to relax under.
- California Wine: Treat your guests to California wine from one of the state's many vineyards. Price: Varies depending on the vineyard and wine type. Usage: Serve it at the reception or offer it as a welcome gift.
Product Comparison: Sunglasses
Consider these factors when choosing sunglasses:
- UV Protection: Make sure they offer 100% UVA and UVB protection.
- Style: Choose a style that complements your wedding theme.
- Fit: Choose sunglasses that fit well and are comfortable to wear.
- Lens Color: Choose a lens color that's appropriate for the lighting conditions.
Here's a quick comparison:
Product | UV Protection | Style | Lens Color | Price |
---|---|---|---|---|
Ray-Ban Classic Aviator | 100% UVA and UVB | Aviator | Various | $163 |
Oakley Holbrook | 100% UVA and UVB | Square | Various | $156 |
Knockaround Premiums | 100% UVA and UVB | Wayfarer | Various | $25 |