Weddings away

Q: My girlfriend and I fell in love on St. Thomas two years ago. For our wedding next year, we want to return to the island. Now we’re looking for ways to make the travel easy and affordable for our guests. Any ideas?

A: Absolutely. Travel, like many things, adheres to the old strength-in-numbers rule. Most of today’s airlines offer discounted rates for groups needing as few as ten seats.

American Airlines, for instance, flies to St. Thomas from many major U.S. hubs and offers a five-percent discount off its lowest published fares.

Once you line up the discount with the airlines, you’ll receive a reservation code. You can save yourself a lot of phone calls and e-mails by supplying the code with your save-the-date notes. American will even give you free printed cards to slip into the envelopes.

With some airlines, groups can save not only money but also another valuable commodity—time. Ten or more passengers checking in on a single reservation at American, for instance, can use the self-service check-in machines. That means your guests won’t need to stand in long lines at the ticket counter. And these days, who couldn’t appreciate that?

A: You should be looking for a dress that makes you feel comfortable and beautiful. There are no rules when it comes to what you wear in Hawaii on your wedding day! That said, there are a few things it can’t hurt to think about.

More and more designers, recognizing the trend toward destination weddings, are making gorgeous gowns that are easy to pack or carry. Watch for dresses made of chiffon or organza. These fabrics travel well and will need minimal attention when you arrive. Consider wearing a dress with no train, or with a puddle train, as these will be easier to maneuver across the sand. And, of course, always keep the tropical weather in mind when choosing sleeves or no sleeves and neckline.

Designers currently creating dresses with destination brides in mind include Jessica McClintock and Claire Pettibone. Or, for a remarkably simple answer, take a look at the J.Crew catalog as well. The company’s wedding dresses are as easy as they come, elegant, and affordable. But remember, it’s your day so anything goes. Have you considered a sarong?

Send your wedding questions by e-mail to , or by mail to Annette Burden, Destination Weddings & Honeymoons, 6267 Carpinteria Avenue, Suite 200, Carpinteria, CA 93013.

Destination Weddings & Honeymoons is your ultimate resource for planning a destination wedding or honeymoon. Discover amazing places throughout the world to tie the knot as well as the perfect spot for your honeymoon. In every issue, you get coverage of real-life lovebirds and their nuptials, expert advice for planning your big day, and the hottest styles in wedding attire to take you from wedding to honeymoon.

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