Summer is upon us which means that the wedding season is in full swing, but instead of jetting off to the usual wedding destination hotspots, brides are going for the slightly more exotic and unusual destinations.
MarryAbroad.co.uk found increasing demand for non-traditional wedding destinations and have revealed the top five.
Japan may not necessarily scream wedding location but many couple are choosing it as their preferred place to marry.
Site Founder Steph Bishop says, “For a culture which is far removed from the UK, Japan is becoming popular with couples wanting a completely unique wedding. The rise in the Japanese concept of "kawaii" - meaning loveable or adorable, with a younger British generation, has in turn, lead to a greater interest in this country and its traditions. Here couples can even opt for their own Hello Kitty wedding.
“However, for those couples wanting a less kitsch ceremony, Japan offers a combination of tradition, heritage and beautiful landscapes. Whether couples choose to marry in springtime when the cherry blossom is out, summer when it's clear and warm, autumn when the leaves turn and fall, or winter in the snow - Japan has a season to suit every ceremony.”
Despite only being introduced recently on the site, Cambodia has become very popular with British brides and is increasingly being picked as the prime wedding location.
Steph suggests that couples try and group their travel plans and marriage into one trip. Not only does this save on costs but it also allows for a completely different experience.
She says, “Exchanging vows at the ancient Cambodia temple of Angkor Wat or becoming ‘Mr & Mrs’, whilst sailing on a junk around Ha Long Bay in Cambodia, are both more tempting than a white wedding at home these days, which may explain the increase in interest.”
Many associate Vietnam with the war, but the truth is it’s a beautiful destination full of scenic views and large water fronts.
Usually, most couples will only getting a blessing there as there are residency laws when it comes to getting married.
Steph says, “Couples travelling around the country for some time may be able to legally marry in Vietnam, if they can prove “residency” for a certain period of time.”
Argentina is a beautiful country, with its vineyards and snow tipped peaks, and the site has seen an increase in couple who wish to marry among the beautiful scenery.
Steph says, “We’ve seen an increase in interest in South America in the last two months – with the most enquiries coming through for Argentina, which is ideal since the country has just changed the law last week, to allow non-residents to marry legally there.”
Denmark offers many benefits as it’s close to home and has a variety of scenery, from beaches, to forests and great little scattered towns.
Steph says, “Not many UK couples have discovered the delights of Denmark yet, so marrying here offers an unusual solution which is close to home, yet completely different to any other ceremony. And the marriage legalities are simple too.”
So next time you’re thinking about your wedding location, maybe consider something a little more exotic!
Cara Mason @Cara_FAM
Tagged in Wedding Wedding Destinations