By Kay Wicker for TheGrio
According to Brides magazine, destination weddings have grown by 250% since 2019 — and the variety of destinations has increased as well. Sure, we have celebrities like Simone Biles partying it up in ever-popular Mexico for her spring nuptials, but we also see internet ”It” girls like lifestyle blogger Aisha Beau hosting intimate affairs in Portugal. Other countries like Dubai and Kenya are also starting to appear on top destination wedding location lists, especially among Black couples.
A destination wedding doesn’t necessarily require going abroad; many couples are opting to stay within the contiguous United States and host their big day in cities other than their hometowns, a trend the industry calls “domestic destination” weddings.
Whether you’re staying local or taking your nuptials on the road, deciding where you’ll get married is arguably the most crucial decision you must make when planning your wedding. It’s a decision that impacts almost everything, from when you will get married to who you can invite. It may even impact your aesthetic choices for the big day. Need some inspiration? We’ve compiled a list of 20 top destinations that are tried and true, on the rise, and passport-optional below.
Tried and true
Mexico
Mexico remains a regular on top wedding destination lists because of the sheer range of venues and experiences the country has to offer, from traditional Catholic churches to vibrant artsy cities to upscale modern beach resorts. With the increase in remote work, there’s also a growing number of Black ex-pats migrating to the country. Mexico City, Cabo San Lucas, Los Cabos, Tulum, and Cancun remain major cities for weddings with a host of options throughout.
The Bahamas
With its famed turquoise waters, white and pink sand beaches, noteworthy hospitality, and close proximity to the U.S., it’s not hard to guess why the Bahamas is a top location for destination weddings. The Caribbean nation of over 700 islands and cays is home to some of the world’s top resorts, most of which offer all-inclusive packages that make hosting a destination wedding convenient. Check out Nassau, Harbour Islands, New Providence, and Little Exuma for a wide array of options offering easy, breezy Caribbean vibes.
Bermuda
Like the Bahamas, Bermuda is another Caribbean nation in close proximity to the U.S., making it a popular destination for weddings. Bermuda is a small, quaint island nation with white sand beaches and a blend of historic cities and tropical beaches. There are luxury hotels and entire estates perfect for an intimate island wedding.
Jamaica
The Rev. Martin Luther King Jr. once said he felt “like a human being” in Jamaica, and it’s a sentiment shared by many Black travelers who visit the iconic island. It has become a top destination for Black couples to wed and honeymoon and is one of the world’s top destinations for weddings in general. A slew of options abound, from luxury all-inclusive resorts and hotels to private estates.
Dominican Republic
The Dominican Republic offers both Caribbean and Atlantic Ocean-facing beaches, a plethora of all-inclusive resorts to choose from, and tropical paradise vistas, not to mention tons of excursions to keep an entire wedding party entertained throughout their stay. Check out Punta Cana for a resort vibe or Santo Domingo for a more historic Caribbean city atmosphere.
France
France is home to the city arguably most associated with love worldwide, Paris. For over a century, the country has also become home to a large number of Black ex-pats and Black immigrants from all over the world. Whether a chic wedding in the City of Lights beckons you or a chateau in the South of France is more your love language, France has more than enough elegance, opulence and historical appeal to offer.
Spain
Whether you are enjoying the beaches of Malaga or the streets of Barcelona, the party never seems to stop in Spain. The European country oozes with style, culture and a lively atmosphere.
Greece
The only seas that may be able to hold a candle to the turquoise pools of the Caribbean are the deep blues of the Mediterranean. With increasing frequency, Black couples have been jet-setting to Greece for weddings fit for the gods among its hilly landscapes and breathtaking ocean views.
On the rise
Dubai
Dubai is bursting at the seams with luxury travel experiences and top-tier hospitality. It’s little wonder the decadent country is climbing top location lists for destination weddings. For a wedding that’s truly next level, Dubai may just be the place.
