Blog Posts by Bridal Guide

Trend report: With limited vacation time, couples are opting for weekend getaways to celebrate their wedded bliss.

By: Jenna Mahoney

• Amazing Celebrity Honeymoons and Destination Weddings
• 10 Reasons to Throw a Destination Wedding
• Top Caribbean Beaches
• How to Plan Your Honeymoon (Without Going Broke)
• 10 Marriage Firsts Every Newlywed Experiences

Why do so many couples now choose a destination wedding over a traditional local venue? While a destination wedding can have all the convenience of home for equal or better value, it allows friends and family the opportunity to celebrate your big day in a very unique and memorable way. Your guests can enjoy all the activities at the resort and have a mini vacation, and you can have the distinctive and unforgettable wedding you always dreamed of having. Here are our top ten reasons to have a destination wedding-see how many speak to you.

Related: The Complete Guide to Planning a Destination Wedding

Before you book a local wedding venue, check out these top reasons to have your wedding away from home.

1. Out of town wedding guests won't ask to sleep on your couch.

Actually, resorts have special rates for wedding guests so they'll probably spend less than on any other vacation.

2. It is a great way to reduce your guest list.

If you really want only your closest family and friends you might just be able to get away with it.

3. The dress code.
Casual or even

The author, pictured in the middle with her fiancé and in-laws.My wedding is only two months away, and it's all starting to feel so real, for two reasons: We sent out invitations and had our first bridal shower! It took place in Dayton and was hosted by my future in-laws and some of their close friends. I've never been to a bridal shower before my own-that's something most gals probably can't say. I have a couple of baby showers under my belt, but I didn't know what to expect for a bridal shower. I pictured a group of ladies in sundresses, eating appetizers, unwrapping lingerie and enjoying one another's company. In many ways, the bridal shower we actually had was very different. The most noticeable difference: The presence of testosterone, since couples were invited (this is also referred to as a Jack and Jill shower).

Related: 25+ Stunning Bridal Showers

Talk about a décor statement piece.

The men and women mingled together, and it was fun to see all of the surprises my fiancé Corey's parents had planned for us. Our shower had a vintage/historic theme, so the planners

The author is planning a January 2013 wedding in California with her fiance, who is currently stationed in Afghanistan.For most couples, the first year of marriage is usually wedded bliss. As your lives begin to intertwine and mesh into one, it's not uncommon to see the glow on a newlywed's face, long after the honeymoon's over. Although we did have one short week together after getting married, my husband Michael and I have had to experience the aforementioned bliss over the phone, not in person. Like many other military couples, we have to think of creative ways to keep the romance alive.

Related: Why We Married Before My Husband Left for Afghanistan

We talk as often as our schedule allows. However, it's difficult to find time because of our packed schedules and the nine and a half hour time difference (between New York and Afghanistan, where Michael is deployed). We try to talk about twice a week, but we send Facebook messages more often, almost every day. There's nothing like seeing his number and hearing his voice, even if we have to deal with a three-second delay and lack of privacy

Sure, it'll be tough to top a dramatic, long walk down the aisle for your entrance, but if you plan it right, the exit from your ceremony or wedding party can be just as memorable. Here are some romantic, funny, unique exit ideas we love!

By: Nikki Stroud

• Crazy and Creative Themed Engagement Photos
• 10 Amazing Photo Save-the-Dates
• 15 Signs You're Too Obsessed With the Wedding
• Avoid the Seven Deadly Bridal Sins
  

All eyes were on these adorable kids when they walked down the aisle in some of our favorite Real Weddings!

By: Paulette Safdieh

More from Bridal Guide:

• Crazy and Creative Themed Engagement Photos
• 10 Amazing Photo Save-the-Dates
• 15 Signs You're Too Obsessed With the Wedding
• Avoid the Seven Deadly Bridal Sins
  

We know you can't wait for your wedding day to arrive-envisioning the first time you see your groom, your first kiss after you proclaim your vows and your first dance as husband and wife. Your transition to married life will be filled with more milestone "firsts" that will strengthen your relationship. Here's how to prepare yourself for all the celebrations (and challenges) that you'll face together down the road.

By: Sharon Naylor

• 15 Signs You're Too Obsessed With the Wedding
• Crazy and Creative Themed Engagement Photos
• Find Your Dream Wedding Dress
• Avoid the Seven Deadly Bridal Sins
  

Who says bridal showers have to be boring? Modern brides are spicing up an age-old tradition by incorporating their favorite colors, places or interests. Check out more gorgeous photos from real-life bridal showers, here!

-Stefania Sainato

• Find Your Dream Wedding Dress
• Crazy and Creative Themed Engagement Photos
• 15 Signs You're Too Obsessed With the Wedding
• Avoid the Seven Deadly Bridal Sins