WAYLAND, MA - There was a time when destination weddings themselves made the list as the new trend to watch – but their growth and popularity have secured their lasting ranking in the wedding industry. Continuing to monitor and adapt to the needs of this burgeoning market, Destination Weddings Travel Group has now launched more US options for couples seeking to celebrate stateside.
The expansion, which began with Hawaii, now includes Florida, with more on the way. Destination Weddings Travel Group has also extended to the open seas, partnering with Norwegian Cruise Line and Paul Gauguin Cruises.
“We’re excited to forge this new partnership with DestinationWeddings.com and the opportunity to connect with engaged couples drawn to the allure of marrying on the open seas or in an exotic port of call,” says Andy Stuart, President and Chief Operating Officer of Norwegian Cruise Line. “With a wide array of ceremony and reception options to choose from, every couple sailing on Norwegian Cruise Line can make their dream wedding come to life.”
“Brides and grooms are pursuing unique alternatives for their wedding day, and while we’re seeing robust international growth, there is also a marked increased in the need for options closer to home,” shares Richard Calvert, President and CEO of Destination Weddings Travel Group. “The United States is recognized for its wide variety of diverse landscapes, and pairs the ease of planning domestically with the promise of adventure.”
The cruise offerings make available an unprecedented level of flexibility. “Cruises allow for the opportunity to host intimate affairs while enjoying the endless view. At the same time, hosting the ceremony shore-side while docked is a new, on-trend solution for wanderlust-inspired couples eager to share the day with family and friends who can’t accompany the group during the rest of their travels.”
Diane Moore, President of Paul Gauguin Cruises, adds, “Cruises are synonymous with romantic travel, and our partnership with DestinationWeddings.com opens the door to new possibilities for both brands.”
Calvert explains that the initial locales were selected with the LGBT community in mind, with New York already being added to their GayDestinationWeddings.com brand. “With marriage equality on the rise in the US, couples are also on the lookout for domestic destinations where they can legally formalize their relationship. So it was essential to include regions that recognize marriage equality for all.”
Destination Weddings Travel Group will continue to add new US regions and cruise lines to their portfolio into 2016, as they continue to evolve with the modern destination wedding.
