Once upon a time, there was a bride in a veil and a groom in a top hat, and the whole clan would gather at the chapel. Nowadays, though, weddings have morphed into something more—like a self-care experience.
Tracy Lee, founder and president of a spa-inspired venue, noted that as self-care grows in importance for many, there’s a noticeable shift in how couples incorporate wellness into both their lifestyles and wedding plans.
For instance, the Grand Wailea resort, a beautiful retreat by the sea, recently hosted what some describe as a “wellness wedding” at its Kirolanis Spa, under the guidance of Rachel McCrory, who oversees spa services for Hilton.
This trend reflects a growing desire for alternative venues that prioritize mindfulness and human connection, as Lee highlights in her predictions for the future of wellness.
Of course, Hawaii is among the popular choices. Couples are increasingly drawn to more natural locales instead of stuffy urban settings, seeking what they might call “a holistic, immersive healing journey.”
One standout venue is the Living Sculpture sanctuary in South Florida, just a short drive from Fort Lauderdale. Previously a plant nursery, it now offers a lush backdrop for ceremonies where the connection feels authentic.
May Rodriguez Alvarez, who runs the 5.25-acre property with her husband, shared that it features bright flowers and a serene tropical atmosphere. Couples often choose unique flora like heliconia or the bonsai desert rose. In fact, it’s her husband’s specialty.
Initially, the couple—both lawyers—began crafting their venue more than a decade ago, a project that took over two years to realize. They envisioned a garden filled with waterfalls, carp ponds, and spaces for meditation and sound baths, all part of the wedding experience. “I don’t think we changed the land as much as it changed us,” Alvarez remarked, explaining how they used natural materials to create structures representing the elements: Earth, Fire, Water, Air, and Spirit.
While the ocean nearby is beautiful, it can be windy and have urban restrictions. At their venue, couples can appreciate the gentle breezes and tranquil waters, featuring a lake with three waterfalls symbolizing love, abundance, and health—essential components for a fulfilling life.
This location currently hosts weddings for up to 120 guests, with plans to expand to 200. They don’t offer a standard menu; instead, each couple discusses their preferences to create a personalized package.
Interestingly, travel advisors who help plan weddings are also seeing a demand for destinations in Mexico, Costa Rica, and Hawaii.
As Adam Schwab, co-founder of Luxury Escapes, mentioned, popular spots include Hanalei Bay in Kauai and Riviera Maya, where unique venues like Unico 20°87° near Tulum boast beautiful backdrops and can accommodate large receptions.
At Unico, couples can choose the eco-friendly “soul green” ceremony adorned with flowers hanging from rustic wooden structures, all within an adults-only setting.
In Hanalei Bay, there’s a luxurious resort that champions eco-friendly practices, enhanced by the picturesque surroundings.
Alternatively, in Costa Rica, there’s the Elman Groove hotel, nestled in the jungle near the Bay of Papagayo. This venue has an expansive garden area ideal for intimate ceremonies.
Or you might prefer Hacienda Altagracia, where the lush scenery and diverse spaces offer a distinctively tropical wedding environment.
However, Schwab advises against rushing into a decision on venue selection. He cautions that a specific resort for a “jungle wedding” might not fit the couple’s needs or might not be suitable for weddings at all. Sometimes the best places are the ones that clients don’t even realize exist.
It’s a bit like the law of the jungle.
