2010 Wedding Trends

What Will Be the Hottest, Hippest, and Cutest 2010 Wedding Trends?

When predicting 2010 Wedding Trends, it seems almost too obvious to talk about the economy's impact. But before you jump to conclusions about how drab and cheap weddings are becoming, know that money is certainly not the only influence on style, fashion, or tradition. In fact, couples are getting more creative and feel more freedom to make unique choices.

Here's what I think will be hot next year:

Backyard Weddings at Home

While getting married at home isn't necessarily cheaper, it feels more personal, allows you to have a more intimate affair, and doesn't feel ostentatious. The economy means not only that people want to spend less money, but also that they feel guilty when they do spend money. A backyard event not only helps to put your guests at ease, but also allows you to make more casual, less expensive choices elsewhere. For example, a barbeque picnic feels more appropriate at home than it would at a country club.

Honeymoon on a Budget

15 simple ways to save money on your honeymoon

No one wants to skimp on their honeymoon. Posh accommodations, intimate meals, and soothing massages rank high on the wish list of virtually every newlywed, but most people don't have an unlimited expense account. No need to take the backpack-and-hostel route -- just focus on these five areas to cut down your costs.
The Planning

A little legwork early in your engagement goes a long way toward balancing your budget.

1. Consider a travel agent
It's easy to find a flight and book a hotel over the Internet, so the idea of working with a travel agent might seem antiquated. While it's not for everyone, Tim Leffel, author of Make Your Travel Dollars Worth a Fortune, observes that a travel agent can save money for those who don't have a specific destination in mind. "If you just want to go to a nice Caribbean island and stay in a hotel on the beach, agents can often find deals that you might not run across yourself." So if your heart's set on the Four Seasons in Nevis, use the Web. If you're open to any number of islands and resorts, see what a travel agent has to offer.

Jamaica Wedding Destination Guide

Just about every Caribbean island offers the natural lure of sun-filled days on white-sand beaches gently lapped by an azure sea. But for travellers in search of a rich cultural experience in a setting of extraordinary beauty, Jamaica presents a fascinating diversity of options.
Much of Jamaica's land rises more than 1,000 feet above sea level. The celebrated Blue Mountains, famed for their fine coffee, are actually made up of two ranges, the Central Range, in the northern section, and the Port Royal Mountains that rise above the Liguanea Plain, just north of Kingston. Forests are rich in flora and fauna, and a remarkable number of imaginatively landscaped gardens offer colourful relaxation spots for a restful break.

Water sports run the gamut from sailing and yachting to deep-sea fishing. The island's reefs are home to several sunken ships which have become home to huge families of tropical fish and favourite locations for scuba divers. Coral caves, tunnels and steep canyons overlook waters rich in all variety of tropical fish. The land is punctuated by cascading waterways and fast-flowing rivers, with several mineral springs of therapeutic value. River rafting is especially good on the Martha Brae and the Rio Grande. At Dolphin Cove, visitors can swim with a family of bottle-nose dolphins or visit with rays, eels and sharks.