By Eric Hause, Grand Strand Bride Magazine

We all know that it’s impossible to put a price tag on love, but many are trying. And believe it or not, couples are looking at destination weddings as a way to economize and yet still have the wedding of their dreams.

Many brides think of a destination wedding as cost prohibitive, but the truth of the matter is that they can cost less than traditional weddings. This may be advantageous to brides and grooms who are feeling the effects of today’s economic crunch.

For example, in 2008, the average traditional wedding cost $27,000, while the average destination wedding cost $16,500.

While exotic destinations abroad continue to be popular destination wedding sites, many brides today are looking for that same ambiance closer to home for less.  South Carolina’s Grand Strand is the ideal location for a spectacular destination wedding during the economic squeeze.

Here’s why:

Destination weddings automatically mean a smaller guest list. While brides planning traditional weddings often feel obligated to invite everyone in town, destination brides often limit their guests list to family and only closest friends. The size of the average traditional wedding is 165 guests, while Grand Strand destination weddings average 75 to 100 guests.

Destination weddings are often combined with the honeymoon. The wonderful advantage of having your wedding in a distant location is that the wedding and honeymoon can often be combined into one vacation. For example, by renting a Grand Strand vacation home for one week, brides can hold their wedding and reception on Saturday, then enjoy a quiet week at the beach through the following Saturday.

Destination weddings are not bound by traditional wedding conventions. A Grand Strand wedding can be an informal affair, offering flexibility with your wedding gown and some of the other traditional wedding accoutrements that add up. For that reason, a Grand Strand destination wedding is a popular alternative for second weddings, vow renewals, or those who prefer less tradition

Travel costs need not be prohibitive. Most Grand Strand destination brides and their wedding parties live within driving distance of the beach, which cuts out flight and other exorbitant travel costs. In addition, by planning a weekday or off–season wedding, you and your wedding guests can take advantage of lower lodging rates.

South Carolina’s Grand Strand is an exciting wedding destination. The Grand Strand has gained a reputation as one of the most popular wedding destinations on the East Coast. Miles of unspoiled beaches, luxurious vacation homes and resorts, talented wedding professionals, and a wealth of natural beauty have captured the hearts of thousands of couples who come here to be married each year. Plus, there’s plenty to do for your wedding party from museums and charter fishing to golf or just enjoying the beach.