Here is a write-up and photos of a beautiful ‘real wedding’ on Renaissance Island in Aruba. Though we decided Ren Island wasn’t for us, this posting shows just how beautiful it can be. I can totally identify with this bride who describes Aruba lacking in vendor options. In particular, before reading her write-up I can tell her photographer was not from Aruba. They even went to the extent of bringing their own priest with them. Since Aruba works hard to promote itself as a wedding destination, you would expect more options. While they do have some wonderful people, the wedding industry does not seem nearly as well developed at places like Cabo and Hawaii.

Since Aruba has a reputation for being expensive I had a feeling I would be able to find all the glam and latest / greatest wedding decor available but instead often find myself feeling like they are about 10 years behind. Still, patience and creativity will pay off. And of course so will a substantial budget — I’d be willing to bet this couple’s budget was a bit higher than most. We created a budget based on initial proposals from the hotels and have exceeded it by more than 50%.