Wedding
Planning a Destination Wedding in Dallas
What is a Destination Wedding?
A destination wedding is a ceremony held away from the couple’s hometown, often in a unique or picturesque location. These weddings offer couples the chance to combine their nuptials with a memorable vacation experience for themselves and their guests. Destination weddings can range from intimate gatherings to lavish celebrations, and they often provide a more relaxed and enjoyable atmosphere than traditional local weddings.
Benefits and Unique Appeal of Destination Weddings
- Scenic Backdrops: Destination weddings allow couples to marry in beautiful locations, providing stunning natural backdrops for their ceremony and photographs.
- Intimate Settings: Often, destination weddings have a smaller guest list, allowing for a more intimate and personalized celebration.
- Stress Reduction: Many destinations offer all-inclusive wedding packages that take care of every detail, reducing the stress on the couple.
- Unique Experiences: Combining the wedding with a vacation provides a unique experience for the couple and their guests, making the celebration more memorable.
- Extended Celebrations: Destination weddings often span several days, offering multiple opportunities for guests to bond and celebrate together.
Top 10 Wedding Venues
What to Look for in a Wedding Venue
When choosing a wedding venue, consider the following:
- Capacity: Ensure the venue can accommodate your guest list comfortably.
- Location: Look for a venue that is easily accessible for guests.
- Style and Ambiance: Choose a venue that matches your wedding theme and personal style.
- Amenities: Check if the venue offers essential amenities like catering, parking, and accommodations.
- Budget: Ensure the venue fits within your budget, including any hidden fees.
The Joule Dallas
- Description: A luxurious hotel with modern decor and versatile event spaces.
- Address: 1530 Main St, Dallas, TX 75201
- Contact: (214) 748-1300
Nasher Sculpture Center
- Description: An elegant venue with beautiful gardens and stunning sculptures.
- Address: 2001 Flora St, Dallas, TX 75201
- Contact: (214) 242-5100
The Filter Building on White Rock Lake
- Description: A historic building with scenic views of White Rock Lake.
- Address: 2810 White Rock Rd, Dallas, TX 75214
- Contact: (214) 670-8740
Dallas Arboretum and Botanical Garden
- Description: A picturesque garden venue perfect for outdoor weddings.
- Address: 8525 Garland Rd, Dallas, TX 75218
- Contact: (214) 515-6615
The Adolphus Hotel
- Description: A historic luxury hotel with opulent ballrooms and modern amenities.
- Address: 1321 Commerce St, Dallas, TX 75202
- Contact: (214) 742-8200
Arlington Hall at Turtle Creek Park
- Description: A beautiful historic building set in a lush park.
- Address: 3333 Turtle Creek Blvd, Dallas, TX 75219
- Contact: (214) 528-3243
The Room on Main
- Description: An elegant event space with stunning views of downtown Dallas.
- Address: 2030 Main St, Dallas, TX 75201
- Contact: (214) 742-1526
The Empire Room
- Description: A modern, versatile space perfect for a chic urban wedding.
- Address: 1225 N Riverfront Blvd, Dallas, TX 75207
- Contact: (972) 900-5500
The Milestone | Aubrey Mansion
- Description: A charming mansion with a vintage ambiance and beautiful grounds.
- Address: 1301 McKinney St, Melissa, TX 75454
- Contact: (940) 365-1900
Sixty Five Hundred
- Description: A spacious and customizable warehouse venue.
- Address: 6500 Cedar Springs Rd, Dallas, TX 75235
- Contact: (214) 350-6300
Top 10 Caterers in Dallas
What to Look for in a Caterer
When selecting a caterer, consider:
- Menu Options: Ensure they offer a variety of dishes that suit your tastes and dietary needs.
- Quality and Presentation: Look for high-quality food with beautiful presentation.
- Experience and Reviews: Check their experience with weddings and read reviews from past clients.
- Cost: Ensure their services fit within your budget, including any additional fees for service or rentals.
- Tasting Sessions: Schedule a tasting to ensure you are happy with the flavors and presentation.
Gil’s Elegant Catering
- Types of Food: Gourmet, custom menus.
- Quality: Renowned for exquisite flavors and presentation.
- Address: 2100 N State Hwy 360, Grand Prairie, TX 75050
- Contact: (972) 237-0353
Two Sisters Catering
- Types of Food: Southern-inspired cuisine.
- Quality: Known for personalized service and delicious dishes.
- Address: 2633 Gaston Ave, Dallas, TX 75226
- Contact: (214) 823-3075
Culinary Art Catering
- Types of Food: Contemporary, gourmet cuisine.
- Quality: High-quality ingredients and innovative menus.
- Address: 2233 Valdina St, Dallas, TX 75207
- Contact: (972) 744-0660
Blue Fire Total Catering
- Types of Food: Diverse, customizable menus.
- Quality: Excellent service and attention to detail.
- Address: 2323 Langford St, Dallas, TX 75208
- Contact: (214) 377-8201
Beyond the Box Catering
- Types of Food: Creative, eclectic menus.
- Quality: Fresh ingredients and unique presentation.
- Address: 2540 Elm St, Dallas, TX 75226
- Contact: (214) 828-2228
Kent Rathbun Catering
- Types of Food: Fine dining, gourmet cuisine.
- Quality: Known for culinary excellence and bespoke menus.
- Address: 4252 Spring Valley Rd, Dallas, TX 75244
- Contact: (214) 619-3555
G. Texas Catering
- Types of Food: Southwestern, traditional Texas cuisine.
- Quality: High-quality service and authentic flavors.
- Address: 1700 Pacific Ave, Dallas, TX 75201
- Contact: (214) 421-0783
Celebration Catering
- Types of Food: Classic, comfort food.
- Quality: Great taste and homey presentation.
- Address: 4503 W Lovers Ln, Dallas, TX 75209
- Contact: (214) 351-5681
CN Catering
- Types of Food: Modern, gourmet.
- Quality: High standards and elegant presentation.
- Address: 2025 Irving Blvd, Dallas, TX 75207
- Contact: (214) 821-2514
Low Country Quisine
- Types of Food: Southern, coastal cuisine.
- Quality: Unique flavors and great service.
- Address: 4787 Keller Springs Rd, Addison, TX 75001
- Contact: (972) 386-4555
Top 10 Photographers in Dallas
What to Look for in a Wedding Photographer
When choosing a wedding photographer, consider:
- Portfolio: Review their portfolio to ensure their style matches your vision.
- Experience: Ensure they have experience photographing weddings.
- Personality: Choose a photographer you feel comfortable with.
- Packages: Review their packages and what is included (hours of coverage, number of photos, etc.).
- Reviews: Read reviews from past clients to gauge their reliability and quality.
Jennefer Wilson Photography
- Quality: Artistic and candid photography.
- Address: 5001 Spring Valley Rd, Dallas, TX 75244
- Contact: (972) 849-9339
Perez Photography
- Quality: Elegant and timeless images.
- Address: 8330 Lyndon B Johnson Fwy, Dallas, TX 75243
- Contact: (214) 669-3846
Allen Tsai Photography
- Quality: Romantic and light-filled photographs.
- Address: 2201 Main St, Dallas, TX 75201
- Contact: (214) 563-4995
KJ Images
- Quality: Vibrant and dynamic photography.
- Address: 3000 Turtle Creek Blvd, Dallas, TX 75219
- Contact: (214) 674-4000
Amy Karp Photography
- Quality: Creative and contemporary style.
- Address: 1808 S Good Latimer Expy, Dallas, TX 75226
- Contact: (214) 454-2649
f8 Studio
- Quality: Documentary and editorial approach.
- Address: 1330 Hi Line Dr, Dallas, TX 75207
- Contact: (214) 999-1010
Perez Weddings
- Quality: Classic and refined photography.
- Address: 6060 N Central Expy, Dallas, TX 75206
- Contact: (214) 827-7680
Stephanie Rose Photography
- Quality: Light and airy, fine art photography.
- Address: 300 N Akard St, Dallas, TX 75201
- Contact: (214) 945-8214
Jose Villa Photography
- Quality: Fine art and timeless style.
- Address: 700 N Pearl St, Dallas, TX 75201
- Contact: (214) 473-3600
Ben Q Photography
- Quality: Modern and artistic imagery.
- Address: 1300 S Polk St, Dallas, TX 75224
- Contact: (214) 945-8024
Top 10 Florists in Dallas
What to Look for in a Florist
When selecting a florist, consider:
- Style: Ensure their design style matches your vision.
- Experience: Look for florists with experience in wedding arrangements.
- Reviews: Read reviews and testimonials from past clients.
- Budget: Ensure their services fit within your budget.
- Consultation: Schedule a consultation to discuss your ideas and preferences.
Bows and Arrows Flowers
- Quality: Artistic and whimsical arrangements.
- Address: 2050 N Stemmons Fwy, Dallas, TX 75207
- Contact: (214) 242-9449
Dr Delphinium Designs & Events
- Quality: Elegant and luxurious designs.
- Address: 5806 W Lovers Ln, Dallas, TX 75225
- Contact: (214) 522-9911
The Garden Gate
- Quality: Romantic and lush arrangements.
- Address: 2303 Farrington St, Dallas, TX 75207
- Contact: (214) 220-1272
Petals Couture
- Quality: Modern and sophisticated floral designs.
- Address: 1234 Empire Central Dr, Dallas, TX 75247
- Contact: (214) 941-9941
Stems of Dallas
- Quality: Contemporary and chic arrangements.
- Address: 5610 Dyer St, Dallas, TX 75206
- Contact: (214) 821-2024
Bella Flora of Dallas
- Quality: Luxurious and detailed floral arrangements.
- Address: 118 Oak Lawn Ave, Dallas, TX 75207
- Contact: (214) 750-1884
Branching Out Events
- Quality: Stylish and personalized floral designs.
- Address: 1425 Century Dr, Dallas, TX 75235
- Contact: (214) 741-3800
Cebolla Fine Flowers
- Quality: Classic and timeless floral arrangements.
- Address: 4415 Lovers Ln, Dallas, TX 75225
- Contact: (214) 369-7673
Lush Couture Floral
- Quality: Unique and artistic floral designs.
- Address: 5322 Alpha Rd, Dallas, TX 75240
- Contact: (214) 535-2285
Gardenia Event Decor
- Quality: Exquisite and detailed arrangements.
- Address: 2631 Electronic Ln, Dallas, TX 75220
- Contact: (214) 691-4526
Top 10 Wedding Planners in Dallas
What to Look for in a Wedding Planner
When choosing a wedding planner, consider:
- Experience: Ensure they have extensive experience in planning weddings.
- Portfolio: Review their past work to see if their style matches your vision.
- Services: Check what services are included and if they offer full planning or day-of coordination.
- Personality: Choose a planner you feel comfortable with and can trust.
- Reviews: Read reviews and testimonials from past clients.
Each & Every Detail
- Quality: Comprehensive planning and personalized service.
- Address: 801 E Campbell Rd, Richardson, TX 75081
- Contact: (214) 542-1317
Keestone Events
- Quality: Elegant and detailed event planning.
- Address: 2701 Custer Pkwy, Richardson, TX 75080
- Contact: (214) 810-3823
Hitched Events
- Quality: Modern and stylish wedding planning.
- Address: 2702 McKinney Ave, Dallas, TX 75204
- Contact: (214) 914-9500
Weddings by Stardust
- Quality: Classic and sophisticated wedding planning.
- Address: 6464 W Plano Pkwy, Plano, TX 75093
- Contact: (972) 781-1619
A Stylish Soiree
- Quality: Creative and bespoke wedding planning.
- Address: 2408 Farrington St, Dallas, TX 75207
- Contact: (214) 755-8060
Chic Fleur Weddings and Events
- Quality: Chic and modern wedding planning.
- Address: 3001 Knox St, Dallas, TX 75205
- Contact: (214) 810-1788
Jordan Payne Events
- Quality: Luxury and high-end wedding planning.
- Address: 3400 Carlisle St, Dallas, TX 75204
- Contact: (214) 295-5046
Significant Events of Texas
- Quality: Personalized and detailed wedding planning.
- Address: 6510 Abrams Rd, Dallas, TX 75231
- Contact: (214) 206-1839
Engaged Events
- Quality: Elegant and personalized wedding planning.
- Address: 5307 E Mockingbird Ln, Dallas, TX 75206
- Contact: (214) 882-8008
J Scott Events
- Quality: Comprehensive and luxury wedding planning.
- Address: 4711 Forest Ln, Dallas, TX 75244
- Contact: (972) 385-6400
Where to Host the Welcome Reception
What to Consider in Selecting a Welcome Reception Venue
When choosing a venue for the welcome reception, consider:
- Capacity: Ensure the venue can comfortably accommodate your guest list.
- Location: Choose a venue that is easily accessible for your guests.
- Ambiance: Select a venue that matches the theme and tone of your wedding.
- Amenities: Check if the venue offers catering, parking, and other essential services.
- Budget: Ensure the venue fits within your budget, including any additional fees.
The French Room at The Adolphus
- Description: An opulent venue with elegant decor and exquisite cuisine.
- Address: 1321 Commerce St, Dallas, TX 75202
- Contact: (214) 742-8200
Sambuca Restaurant
- Description: A stylish venue with live music and a vibrant atmosphere.
- Address: 2120 McKinney Ave, Dallas, TX 75201
- Contact: (214) 744-0820
The Ritz-Carlton, Dallas
- Description: A luxurious setting with exceptional service and gourmet dining.
- Address: 2121 McKinney Ave, Dallas, TX 75201
- Contact: (214) 922-0200
The Mansion Restaurant at Rosewood Mansion on Turtle Creek
- Description: A historic and elegant venue with world-class cuisine.
- Address: 2821 Turtle Creek Blvd, Dallas, TX 75219
- Contact: (214) 559-2100
The Nasher Sculpture Center
- Description: A unique venue surrounded by stunning art and beautiful gardens.
- Address: 2001 Flora St, Dallas, TX 75201
- Contact: (214) 242-5100
The Old Warsaw
- Description: A classic venue with a romantic ambiance and fine dining.
- Address: 2512 Maple Ave, Dallas, TX 75201
- Contact: (214) 528-0032
The Belo Mansion
- Description: A historic and grand venue with elegant spaces for receptions.
- Address: 2101 Ross Ave, Dallas, TX 75201
- Contact: (214) 220-0239
Dallas Museum of Art
- Description: A cultural venue offering unique spaces surrounded by art.
- Address: 1717 N Harwood St, Dallas, TX 75201
- Contact: (214) 922-1200
Hotel ZaZa Dallas
- Description: A trendy and eclectic venue with chic decor and excellent service.
- Address: 2332 Leonard St, Dallas, TX 75201
- Contact: (214) 468-8399
Sixty Five Hundred
- Description: A versatile and spacious venue perfect for modern receptions.
- Address: 6500 Cedar Springs Rd, Dallas, TX 75235
- Contact: (214) 350-6300
Bachelor Parties
TopGolf Dallas
- Description: A fun and relaxed venue for golf games, food, and drinks.
- Address: 8787 Park Ln, Dallas, TX 75231
- Contact: (214) 341-9600
Kartland Performance Indoor Raceway
- Description: An exciting go-kart racing experience.
- Address: 10550 John W. Elliott Dr, Frisco, TX 75033
- Contact: (972) 731-6600
Cidercade Dallas
- Description: An arcade bar with over 150 games and craft cider.
- Address: 2777 Irving Blvd, Dallas, TX 75207
- Contact: (214) 208-1922
Bachelorette Parties
Spa at The Crescent
- Description: A luxurious spa offering a variety of treatments.
- Address: 400 Crescent Ct, Dallas, TX 75201
- Contact: (214) 871-3232
Dallas By Chocolate Tours
- Description: A delicious tour of Dallas’ best chocolate shops and bakeries.
- Address: Various locations
- Contact: (972) 814-5997
Sipping and Painting at Pinot’s Palette
- Description: A fun and creative painting class with wine.
- Address: 6465 E Mockingbird Ln, Dallas, TX 75214
- Contact: (214) 827-4668
Adventure Activities
White Rock Lake
- Description: Ideal for kayaking, paddleboarding, and scenic picnics.
- Address: 8300 E Lawther Dr, Dallas, TX 75218
- Contact: (214) 670-8740
Trinity Forest Adventure Park
- Description: An aerial adventure park with zip-lining and obstacle courses.
- Address: 1800 Dowdy Ferry Rd, Dallas, TX 75217
- Contact: (214) 391-1000
Relaxing Activities
Dallas Arboretum and Botanical Garden
- Description: A serene garden perfect for a leisurely stroll and picnic.
- Address: 8525 Garland Rd, Dallas, TX 75218
- Contact: (214) 515-6615
Klyde Warren Park
- Description: A lively urban park with food trucks, live music, and games.
- Address: 2012 Woodall Rodgers Fwy, Dallas, TX 75201
- Contact: (214) 716-4500
How and Where to Obtain a Marriage License in Dallas
- Where to Apply: Dallas County Clerk’s Office.
- Address: 1201 Elm St, Dallas, TX 75270
- Contact: (214) 653-7099
Requirements
- Identification: Both parties must present valid government-issued ID (driver’s license, passport, etc.).
- Age: Both parties must be at least 18 years old. Those under 18 need parental consent and judicial approval.
- Residency: No residency requirement in Texas.
- Fees: The fee for a marriage license in Dallas County is approximately $81.
- Waiting Period: There is a 72-hour waiting period from the time the license is issued until the ceremony can be performed, unless waived by a judge or if the parties are active military.
- Validity: The marriage license is valid for 90 days from the date of issuance.
- Additional Requirements: Both parties must be present to apply. No blood tests are required.
Additional Considerations
Transportation Options for Guests
Airport Transfers:
- DFW Airport: Various shuttle services and ride-sharing options.
- Love Field Airport: Taxis, shuttles, and ride-sharing services available.
Local Travel:
- DART System: Convenient public transportation for traveling around Dallas.
- Rental Cars: Available at the airport and various city locations.
Accommodations
Hotels:
- The Adolphus: Luxurious historic hotel in downtown Dallas.
- The Ritz-Carlton, Dallas: High-end hotel with exceptional amenities.
- Hotel ZaZa Dallas: Trendy boutique hotel with unique decor.
Rental Properties:
- Airbnb: Numerous options throughout the city for all budgets.
- VRBO: Vacation rentals offering a range of properties.
Group Activities and Excursions
Dallas World Aquarium:
- Description: A fun and educational experience for groups.
- Address: 1801 N Griffin St, Dallas, TX 75202
- Contact: (214) 720-2224
Dallas Museum of Art:
- Description: Offers group tours and special exhibits.
- Address: 1717 N Harwood St, Dallas, TX 75201
- Contact: (214) 922-1200
Logistics and Communication
Vendor Communication:
- Use email, phone calls, and video chats to keep in touch with vendors.
- Schedule regular check-ins to ensure everything is on track.
Planning Tools:
- Use wedding planning apps and online tools to stay organized.
- Create a detailed timeline and checklist.
Conclusion
Planning a destination wedding in Dallas offers an array of stunning venues, top-notch vendors, and diverse activities to make your special day unforgettable. By carefully selecting venues, caterers, photographers, and other vendors, and by considering transportation and accommodation for your guests, you can create a seamless and enjoyable experience for everyone involved. Remember to personalize your wedding to reflect your unique love story, ensuring it is a memorable event for you and your guests. Happy planning!