Weddings & Honeymoons
DREAM STARTS A
With demand for weddings abroad growing as couples head for ever-more exotic destinations, opportunities abound for agents with clients hoping to maximise their big day, says Janine Kelso
ccording to Mintel research, UK weddings now cost an average of £20,000 while a wedding abroad
costs as little as £6,500. Little wonder then that one in six British couples chose to wed overseas in 2008 – that's around 51,300 ceremonies. The lingering recession has given
overseas weddings a further boost as cash-strapped couples look for ways to save money on their big day without getting short-changed on the memories. “Getting married abroad is excellent
value compared to the huge expense of a wedding at home,” said Katherine Hobbs, product manager for Caribtours. Celebrities have long been in on the act, with Russell Brand and Katy Perry
tying the knot in India last October at a lavish ceremony at safari camp Aman-e- Khas, while Penelope Cruz and Javier Bardem wed in the Bahamas last July. Many resorts are now encouraging couples to take the plunge abroad by offering the wedding free in return for a minimum stay. Booking overseas weddings is a great
opportunity for agents to cash in on romance and see their commission skyrocket, as they’re likely to be called on to arrange accommodation and flights for the happy couple’s friends and family. Many couples will tag their honeymoon
onto the end of their wedding abroad by opting for a twin-break, which increases agents’ earning potential. But where in
WEDDINGS & HONEYMOONS
Top Selling Tips...
• Gen up on the marriage regulations for top wedding destinations. Countries, such as Sri Lanka, require several days residency before the ceremony
• Suggest room upgrades for the whole wedding party to avoid 'room envy'
• Tell couples that their wedding guests can contribute towards their honeymoon balance via registry lists or voucher schemes
• Attend wedding fairs to win over couples in the early planning stages of their nuptials
• Get onto Twitter to show off your wedding and honeymoon knowledge. Post tips and help drive business!
52 June 2011 •
www.sellinglonghaul.com
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