April 21, 2004

By: Leah Leske
Website: http://www.wedding-rings-n-bands.com

FOR COUPLES LOOKING FOR THE PERFECT BEACH WEDDING, NORTH CAROLINA’S OUTER BANKS ARE A MAGICAL LOCATION

Peter Wood and Cristina Souto have vacationed on North Carolina’s Outer Banks for years. They never met, even though they both rented vacation homes in the village of Duck. And it wasn’t until an Internet dating service brought them together that they discovered their mutual love for the Outer Banks’ pristine beaches, quaint family atmosphere, and wealth of history. So it was only fitting that they returned to the Outer Banks this past September to hold their wedding.

They are not alone. More and more couples are choosing the Outer Banks as their wedding, reception, and honeymoon destination for many of the reasons that Peter and Cristina did. This narrow strip of barrier islands off the North Carolina coast is a stunning setting for beach weddings. From the majesty of the 208-foot Cape Hatteras lighthouse to the aweinspiring sands of Jockey’s Ridge to the quiet splendor of the immaculate Elizabethan Gardens, the man-made and natural wonders of the Outer Banks provide beautiful wedding backdrops.

In addition, the wealth of historical attractions makes the Outer Banks the perfect family vacation spot. The site of the Wright Brothers first flight in 1903 is only minutes from Fort Raleigh, where the first English colonists attempted to colonize America in 1587—then vanished without a trace. But most importantly, the Outer Banks has outgrown its reputation as a sleepy, time-warped coastal community over the past two decades. Today, visitors come here not only for the sand dunes and beaches, but also for the million dollar rentals homes, top-notch restaurants, and first class shopping.

It is no wonder, then, that the Outer Banks has become one of the top wedding locations on the East Coast. In fact, the increasing demand for wedding services and vendors has resulted in the formation of the Outer Banks Wedding Association, a non-profit coalition of nearly 100 caterers, officiants, photographers, florists, DJs, jewelers, and other wedding-related businesses and individuals. Said President Kim Stetson, owner of Holiday House Flowers in Kill Devil Hills, The Association was born out of the need to provide a central resource for brides who want to get married on the Outer Banks.

Ten years ago, there was little demand, partly because there was no one here to help couples plan and execute a wedding. But in the past few years, we’ve seen more businesses that cater to brides open their doors and succeed.

About The Author:

Leah Leske is a successful author and regular contributor to http://www.wedding-rings-n-bands.com.  Find beautiful weddings rings and bands including diamond, titanium, celtic, platinum and special designs.