Second weddings are a chance to try something new and pursue everything that you weren’t able to do at your first wedding. For many, this means hopping on a plane to wed in a romantic location.
Destination weddings are a popular choice for second weddings, as there’s often less need to adhere to expectations and traveling to a new destination can accommodate any size of guest list, from an intimate family celebration to a huge multi-day bash. Keep in mind that a destination wedding doesn’t necessarily require a passport either – technically, it’s anywhere over 100 miles, so you can still celebrate your nuptials stateside.
Livermore, California
“For the couple that loves wine and rolling countryside, Livermore is a perfect spot for intimate weddings,” shares Heather Jones of Wente Vineyards. “With 40 wineries in the area, you will be sure to find a wine you enjoy. And let’s not forget about the historic downtown area with adorable shops and a bustling art scene.”
Cabo San Lucas, Mexico
“Cabo is a beautiful location for your nuptials as well as a getaway for you and your guests,” says Amy Abbott of Amy Abbott Events. “There is a large selection of resorts, as well as the opportunity to rent houses to host guests if you’re after a more intimate affair. There’s also a babysitting service called Baja Babysitters that can keep little ones busy as the adults have some time for rest and relaxation.”
Punta Cana, Dominican Republic
“Kid-friendly destinations may be an important factor and, while lots of couples flock to Mexico and Jamaica, the Dominican Republic is a beautiful alternative,” encourages Megan Velez of Destination Weddings Travel Group. “Top wedding resorts that cater to adults and children alike include the Hard Rock Hotel & Casino and Nickelodeon Punta Cana. Both properties boast kids clubs, waterslides and plenty of restaurants to satisfy the pickiest of eaters, all while not having to compromise a romantic ceremony setting.”
Park City, Utah
“Park City, Utah is the most beautiful mountain town with luxury hotels and fabulous venues – but best for groups under 200 guests, which most seconds weddings are,” explains Tracie Domino of Tracie Domino Events. “There are fabulous restaurants that allow buyouts, tons of fun things to do for guests of all ages and, best of all, it’s only 30 minutes from an international airport.”
Lost Sierra, California
“With breathtaking views of the Sierra Buttes and a gorgeous spread of water and lush trees, the Lost Sierra region in California is the ideal spot for couples looking for a nature getaway,” says Paulette Alkire of Chalet View Lodge. “Cabins and resorts are tucked away in various areas, including an array of family-friendly campgrounds. The options are endless, and each area of the region boasts a different hidden gem, whether it’s a beautiful hiking trail, a picture-perfect forest, or a stunning angle of the sparkling lakes.”
New York City
“For LGBTQ couples looking to stay domestic for their wedding, New York City is a colorful, cultural spot that boasts a wide variety of cuisines and adventurous experiences,” shares Brittny Drye of Love Inc. “Each neighborhood is vastly different from one to the next, allowing the couple and their guests to easily wander from authentic Greek food fare in Queens to kayaking in Manhattan to finishing the day at the top of the Rockefeller Center.”
There are plenty of reasons to opt for a destination second wedding – choose a destination that fits your and your partner’s interests and you’re sure to never forget your one-of-a-kind wedding experience.
Meghan Ely is the owner of wedding PR and wedding marketing firm OFD Consulting. Ely is a sought-after speaker, adjunct professor in the field of public relations, and a self-professed royal wedding enthusiast.
