Getting married at sea is the ultimate romantic dream for many people. Ocean travel has been wrapped up with notions of romance since the golden age of the ocean liner and while the modern cruise industry is not quite the same, with proper planning and research, a wedding at sea can still be the ultimate location.
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Take a cruise. Start by test-driving the cruise experience, preferably on the ship you are considering for your big day. This is especially important if you have never been on a cruise.
Reserve space early. With cruise weddings an increasingly popular option, you’ll want to start your planning as far in advance as possible.
Use a travel agent. You’ll need to reserve a block of staterooms, plan activities for diverse ages and make sure everyone gets to the ship on time. Consider calling in a pro.
Listen to your wedding planner. Your cruise line will assign a wedding planner. She’s your new BFF, the expert who is able to see the big picture and assure hassle-free planning.
Make your wedding your own. Wedding packages outline the basics, but the sky is the limit in terms of custom-crafting your experience. Want ice sculptures and a string quartet? No problem. There’s a shipboard creative team at your disposal.
Reserve playtime. With family and friends along for the cruise, plan in advance so your party can dine together. Also consider booking everyone on a celebratory shore excursion.
Share with others. Put your cruise on your bridal registry, so that friends and family back home can be part of the action. They may purchase onboard credits, which you can use for perks such as his-and-her massages (great for eliminating any pre-wedding jitters).
Choose the right stateroom. You are celebrating a special event, so go with the best you can afford. A private balcony for your stateroom is worth the splurge.
Categories: Cruise Lifestyle
