DESTINATION WEDDINGS

By S. MICHAL BENNETT

Are you considering planning your wedding far from the familiarity of home in an all-inclusive, fairytale location? A destination wedding can often save you time and money, reduce stress, and experience an “exotic” locale you have always wanted to visit.

When you think of a destination wedding, you probably envision warm, sunny locations with ocean beaches, verdant jungle, and plenty of fresh seafood. But your wedding doesn’t have to be in another country to be a dreamy, one-of-a-kind getaway for you, your wedding party, and your guests. Despite common perception, only a small percentage of destination weddings are booked internationally. “Domestination” weddings – those held in the United States but still away from home – are much more popular. Here are a few reasons why North Idaho could be your ideal destination wedding spot. And check out three of our top domestination picks.

>> Gorgeous Scenery

Our lake beaches may not be covered in white sand, but we have plenty of them, both private and public. From Lake Coeur d’Alene to Hayden Lake, Pend Oreille, Priest, and all the little lakes in between, there are plenty of water and beach activities for everyone.

Nestled along the Coeur d’Alene Mountains, part of the Rock Mountains, northern Idaho boasts some of the most exquisite mountain and forest vistas in the country. There are numerous retreats, resorts, family ranches, and unique stays set in these picturesque locales offering opulent amenities surrounded by rustic views and uncommon recreation.

One unique way to incorporate the graceful scenery of Lake Coeur d’Alene into your wedding is to book a Lake Coeur d’Alene Cruise Boat wedding package at the Coeur d’Alene Resort. “Our cruise boats are an amazing way to take in all of Coeur d’Alene’s beauty,” says Cally King, Director of Marketing at Lake Coeur d’Alene Cruises. “You can decorate the boats beautifully or let the beautiful scene of Lake Coeur d’Alene be your backdrop.”

>> Beautiful Weather, Year-Round

North Idaho has four distinctive seasons. So, whether you want to say your vows on a sunny beach, on the pristine turf of a golf course, at the edge of a vineyard, or in a snowy glen surrounded by massive pine trees, there’s a spot here for you.

Spring and fall, with a smattering of sunny days coupled with cool nights, are my favorite seasons. They are also the most unpredictable when it comes to weather. Not a problem. There are plenty of venues that will take care of all the details while still offering stunning views from inside.

You may think of a ski resort as a winter destination, but Schweitzer Mountain, the largest ski resort in Idaho and Washington, boasts 2900 acres of terrain and incredibly stunning mountain and Lake Pend Oreille views that are the perfect backdrop for a romantic wedding, regardless of the season. “Summer is an ideal time to host your wedding at Schweitzer,” says Cassandra Koszarek, Group Sales Specialist. “All the amenities that make Schweitzer a great winter destination are available for guests to enjoy throughout the summer, in addition to activities such as horseback riding, mountain biking, hiking, rock wall climbing, fishing, chair lift rides, and more!” Plus, the cool mountain air offers a welcome respite from the summer heat.

>> All-Inclusive

What does all-inclusive mean to you? All your meals catered? Exceptional yet affordable accommodations? Shopping and fun activities for adults and kids? Personalized care and customizable options? Immersive experiences? The décor, music, flowers, and schedule you dream of?

A strong agricultural region, the Inland Northwest offers a diverse range of cuisines, from local and international to elegant, unique, traditional, and awardwinning. Accommodations and activities range from city-centered to mountain top, lakeside, and lush sylvan. Wedding packages at destination venues often mean that you have all-day access to your ceremony and reception rooms for extended celebrating with your wedding party and guests, who are also probably housed just down the hall. In addition, you have a dedicated coordinator and team of people whose sole purpose is to make your dream wedding happen. You visualize it. They realize it.

CdA Resort ~ Photo by La Belle Bella Photography

Schweitzer ~ Photo by Adam Schluter

“There was not one hair out of place with the whole process!” These are the words of Jason and Brandon who worked with Claudia Graham and her team at the Coeur d’Alene Casino to conceive and execute their dream destination wedding. “We are a destination 30 minutes from nowhere that welcomes you home and accommodates any needs you have,” says Claudia. “We are there for you.”

>> Intimate, Romantic, Personalized Experiences

Transition easily from wedding to honeymoon while creating intimate moments. Whether in the magnificent outdoors or the coziness of your room or suite, North Idaho is the perfect setting for making memories that will last a lifetime.

For example, Schweitzer Mountain’s fully licensed beer, wine and liquor service over the entire mountain provides an incredible opportunity to add an intimate or festive experience to your wedding day. “Our sit and sip chairlift champagne service,” says Cassandra, “provides guests with bubbly refreshment as they take in the views on the breathtaking ride up the Great Escape chairlift.” As the bride and groom, you can also craft your own signature wedding cocktail to be served as guests arrive at your ceremony.

>> Something for Everyone

The communities of North Idaho are serious about their recreation, regardless of the season. There’s always something to do or experience: roller coasters and zip lines, boat cruises and water sports, bike rentals and Segway tours, hot springs and snow sports, hiking, swimming, snowshoeing, diving, and oh so much more.

CdA Resort ~ Photo by La Belle Bella Photography

>> Our Top Destination Picks

Lake Coeur d’Alene Cruise Boats

cdacruises.com/weddings

The Package • Charter boat rental from a newlyrenovated fleet

• Dinner service

• Your cake

• Menu options ranging from $35-$85 per person • Music and DJ

• Photography • Flowers and decor

• Panoramic windows with heat inside, if needed

• Enclosed lower level for ceremony, reception, and protection from inclement weather

• Add-ons include fireworks, cruise stops at private family homes on the lake, live musicians on board, and a stay at the Coeur d’Alene Resort with access to all the amenities the resort has to offer

• Zoom Site Tours and in-person visits available

“Weddings on Lake Coeur d’Alene are a unique, fun and beautiful way to say your vows and make memories. Our fleet of boats provides an elegant and charming setting that is also surprisingly affordable. All you need to do is pick the boat and work with our professional event team to make your day just the way you want it.” – Cally King, Director of Marketing, Hagadone Marine Group and Lake Coeur d’Alene Cruises.

Coeur d’Alene Casino

cdacasino.com/book-an-event/weddings

The Package • 18-hole Golf Course available for your ceremony and/or photos • Bridal Special at the award-winning

SPA Ssakwa’q’n • Stunning venues, with flexible access • Spectacular views • Elegant, diverse cuisine with $100 rehearsal dinner credit

• Hotel accommodations with discounted group rates (one complimentary room night for every 20 guest rooms) and complimentary honeymoon suite • Casino play • Wedding coordinator on staff with interior decorator and professional staff • Vendor list • Cultural tourism • Transportation from Spokane

International Airport • Everything you need with 30 minutes to nowhere

“We guarantee our professional staff and a smooth sailing day for your wedding. Take a look at our wedding package but know that we have a lot more to offer to personalize your special day.” – Claudia Graham, Catering and Hotel Sales Manager, Coeur d’Alene Casino

Schweitzer

schweitzer.com/plan/weddings/

The Package • A one-of-a-kind wedding location • The Schweitzer Difference: dedicated staff who pride themselves on creating an experience that is exceptional in every way and elevating events to the next level – “a team who truly loves to see you smile” • Fulfillment Coordinator: coordinates the rehearsal, runs the ceremony, designs layouts, determines menu needs, runs timing of services • Rehearsal dinner space in Schweitzer village • Ceremony AV with a sound tech to run music, microphones, etc. • Fulfillment Coordinator: coordinates the rehearsal, runs the ceremony, designs layouts, determines menu needs, runs timing of services • Tables, chairs, linens, table place settings, and a dance floor pre-set to your specifications • Indoor ceremony weather back-up venue • Exceptional catering menus with fresh and local selections ranging from buffet banquet services to refined luxury dishes or casual comfort fare • Lodging block with 20% off for wedding guests

• Annual complimentary Wedding

Tasting event for confirmed couples and two guests – preview your wedding experience, taste the food and drink, tour the venues and lodging, and choose personalized details. • Fully licensed for beer, wine, and liquor service with full bar staff

“Our services create experiences that build joyful memories that last a lifetime for you and your loved ones. It is our pleasure to help bring your wedding dreams to life.” – Cassandra Koszarek, Group Sales Specialist, Schweitzer Mountain Resort. N

Schweitzer ~ Photo by Adam Schluter

Coeur d’Alene Casino