Top Destination Wedding Ideas in the U.S.

IMG_1567-EditAt Saiaf Films, our wedding photographers are no strangers to diversity in wedding locations. With a team that travels nationwide to provide wedding photography and videography to our clients, we have enjoyed a range of destination weddings. Here, we share our top destination wedding ideas in the U.S.

Arizona

This beautiful desert state is at the top of our list of ideal destination wedding locations- and that’s not because our home office is located in Arizona. (Okay, maybe it has a little something to do with it.) From the breathtaking desert landscapes in spiritual Sedona to the forested ski slopes of Flagstaff, Arizona offers a variety of wedding venue locations.
What you will need:

  • Both IDs
  • Certified copies of your birth certificates if you are under 30
  • $76 fee that can be paid with cash or a money order.
    There is no waiting period and no health requirements.

FloridaHome to 825 miles of pristine beaches, Florida is a prime destination wedding location for coastal celebrations. Whether you choose to have your wedding ceremony on the sea, an island, or an a pastel-hued bungalow, Florida is an ideal location for the perfect beach wedding.
What you will need:

  • Both IDs
  • Certified copies of your birth certificates if you are under 30
    Arrive within three days of your ceremony. If you choose to take the four hour Florida premarital course (available online), the fee of $93.50 is reduced by a third. There is no waiting period and no health requirements.

IMG_0137California is a great spot for a variety of wedding venues. You have the option to visit the Lake Tahoe ski lifts, Napa Valley vineyards or even one of the many beautiful beaches that line the coast.
What you will need:

  • Both IDs
  • Certified copies of your birth certificates
    In the state of California, same sex marriage is legal and there are no health requirements.

Hawaii
Only a five-hour flight from Los Angeles, Hawaii is a breathtaking wedding venue location for the perfect beach destination wedding. If you choose to wed in late December through early May, you can enjoy watching the whales from many of the stunning beaches.
What you will need:

  • Apply for your wedding license online, but do not sign it until you meet with a wedding agent.
  • Both IDs
  • Certified copies of your birth certificates
    There are no waiting periods and you will get your temporary certificate online. The certified copy will be mailed a few weeks later.

Las Vegas
Whether you choose to wed on the Las Vegas Boulevard or out at one of the canyons near Lake Mead or Hoover Dam, Vegas is a great spot for a showstopping memorable destination wedding.
What you will need:

  • Both IDs
    Visit the county clerk’s office to get your marriage license. You can tie the knot the same day and the license is good for up to a year.

New Orleans
With a contagious celebratory energy and culture, the Big Easy is an indulgent and glamorous destination wedding location. From its colorful architecture and vibrant second line, nothing brings on the wedding party vibe like New Orleans.
What you will need:

  • Both IDs
  • Certified copies of your birth certificatesIMG_6687-Edit
    There is a 72 hour waiting period between acquiring the wedding license and having the ceremony. But, the waiting period can be waived if a registered New Orleans officiant performs the wedding service.

The Northeast
Perhaps you are seeking a wedding venue surrounded by rural charm or the countryside? The Northeast consists of nine states along the northeast region of the U.S. and they all share a variety of historic significance with beautiful seasonal backdrops.
What you will need:

  • Both IDs
  • Certified copies of your birth certificates
    Marriage laws vary by state, so be sure to check the specific state laws for whichever Northeast state you choose to marry in.

Puerto Rico
Looking for an intimate and memorable wedding destination location? Puerto Rico offers stunning island backdrops for the perfect beach wedding. The historic feel of Old San Juan with the salsa infused beats create the perfect vibe for an unforgettable destination wedding.
What you will need:

  • Both IDs
  • Certified copies of your birth certificates
    You must obtain a marriage license through the Demographic Registry office in Old San Juan. There is no waiting period. The currency is the U.S. dollar and English is widely spoken.