A wedding in paradise: Maria and Mark's sunshine day

Maria and Mark Allen married on March 28, 2008, at the Bahia Principe Hotel, Punta Cana, Dominican Republic.

Maria (31), of Whiston, said: “Have a realistic budget- it isn’t as expensive as getting married at home but getting married abroad has hidden extras that you must budget for.

“Decide who is going to be invited- just the two of you, immediate family? Friends too? 

“What you may find is that the friends you really want there can’t afford to travel abroad and those 'acquaintances' that may not be your number one choice to spend your special holiday with can afford it. 

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“One way round this was to have an evening reception when you return, as we did.

“Then there are wedding dress issues. Certain material doesn't travel well so think about your choice- you don't want a creased wedding gown. 

“Allow plenty of time to plan and do the research. I started to plan the wedding 15 months before we flew.

“Take into account the weather/climate of your chosen destination. We married in the Caribbean and the best time of year there is our spring time, the summer is monsoon season.

“If you take family/friends then you have to remember that these people are probably spending their annual holiday with you therefore take into account what their holiday needs may be. Are there children's facilities/clubs and enough to keep everyone entertained and happy?

“On the actual wedding day it was great- we had breakfast together and sunbathed and relaxed with family members. Getting married late afternoon when the sun wasn’t so hot was just perfect. It was a very relaxed way to tie the knot and I would do it all over again if I could.”

Celeb weddings. Expensive, exotic and downright bizarre.

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