As we trudge through the coldest, darkest months of the year, it’s easy to start day-dreaming of sinking your toes in the sand with the warm sun beating down on you and your love in a tropical wedding destination. Planning a wedding while it is snowing outside can plant a little seed that perhaps a tropical wedding in paradise is just what you need.
We are all about helping with your winter escape wedding dreams and thought it would be apropos to share our five best tropical wedding destinations.
John Tobey’s Five Best Tropical Wedding Destinations
Bula Vinaka, Fiji
Our number one tropical island paradise for the wedding day of your dreams is Fiji! Located in the south Pacific Ocean, approximately 1100 nautical miles from New Zealand, Fiji is a chain of volcanic islands known for coral reefs, hilly landscapes, and clear lagoons. With a tropical marine climate that is warm year-round, you can safely plan your much anticipated nuptials on the beautiful white sand beaches. English is one of three official Fijian languages. Have your guests get their passports ready, because this is one destination you will not want to miss.
Maldives, The Sunny Side of Life
Coming in at number two, the nation of islands in the Indian Ocean, Maldives (or Republic of Maldives), is situated southeast of India off the Asian continent. Coral reefs and crystal-clear waters are the essence of Maldives, which is an old nation whose people have embraced a life focused on the sea. While the national language of Maldives is Dhivehi, most Maldivians speak English. Update your passport and prepare to embrace the concept of “destination,” as it is roughly a 24-hour flight from the US to Maldives, where your guest can enjoy scuba div-ing, fishing, golfing, and multiple water sports!
Connect with The Islands of Tahiti
Our number three pick lies in the heart of the Pacific Ocean where you’ll find the French Polynesian Islands of Tahiti. A tropical paradise that is a destination in and of itself, Tahiti is a once in a lifetime location for your once in a lifetime event. Perhaps best known of the Tahitian Islands, Bora Bora is considered Tahiti’s leading lady. An eight-hour flight from the west coast of mainland US, imagine endless sunsets, white beaches, and blue water. While there is little temperature variation throughout the year, outdoor events may be better planned May-October to avoid the rainy season. Though French is the official language spoken, it is not difficult to find English-speakers in most restaurants, resorts, and tourist areas. A tourist Visa is not required, but a passport is. Snorkeling, sailing, hiking and surfing are all in abundance for your guests to enjoy.
Mahalo, Maui
Next up is the second largest Hawaiian island, Maui, known as the “The Valley Isle”. From the green tops of the tropical mountains to the sandy beaches below, everything about Maui’s diverse landscapes is absolutely gorgeous. Tropical and fairly uniform weather makes planning outdoor events reliable. Outside of the main event, guests can also enjoy snorkeling, surfing, and windsurfing. Maui is easy to reach with multiple flights daily from several mainland US airports, and best of all, no passports needed.
Heaven was copied after Mauritius
And rounding out our top five is the Indian Ocean island in East Africa, Mauritius, known for its lagoons and beaches. Mauritius prides itself on being a “green” destination, committed to providing sustainable approaches to both activities and leisure. Diving, hiking, and golfing abound – providing many opportunities for your guests to enjoy while visiting for your main event. The climate is tropical and even in the wettest months (January to March), there are many hours of sunshine daily. You will need a passport to travel to Mauritius, and you will find that English is the official language.
Once you are sold on planning your dream tropical and beach wedding destination, there are a few important points to consider. What is the weather like during your wedding season? Will you need permits to use the beach? It’s always nice to extend an early invitation including the dress code. If you are not imagining tuxes in the waves, make sure your guests are aware.
Colorado Wedding Venue Spotlight
If “keeping it local” is more your scene, then we would like to shine a spotlight on the Ritz Carlton Bachelor Gulch in Beaver Creek, CO. This luxury resort, nestled in the heart of the Colorado Rockies, offers both mountain and valley views, access to multiple golf courses, a full luxury spa, as well as family (child) friendly amenities. Best of all, it is just over 100 miles from downtown Denver to the Ritz Carlton Bachelor Gulch, making it accessible to all your local guests and to those using Denver International Airport, as well.
Denver Wedding Vendor Spotlight
This month, we are also pleased to feature local vendor Newberry Brothers (Floral + Decor + Event Design). Newberry Brothers is a family-owned and operated business with over 65 years of success at providing award-winning floral decor in the Denver area. When it comes to floral design, Newberry Brothers “creates the most imaginative wedding and special events flowers you’ve ever seen.” Rely on them to adorn your special day in a unique and jaw-dropping way!
Negroni
Ingredients:
1 oz Gin
1 ¼ oz Montanoaro 6PM apertivo
1 oz Sweet vermouth
Orange peel
Garnish:
Orange peel twist
How to construct:
Stir all ingredients with ice in a mixing glass until combined and well-chilled. Strain in an old-fashioned glass over ice. Garnish with orange peel.
Destination Spotlight
Maui Ku’ia Estate Chocolate, Hawaii
For serious chocolate lovers, this working cacao farm in Lahaina on the island of Maui is a paradise within a paradise. Located in West Maui, the trade winds make for a cool location for chocolate tastings and special events.