Let me dispell the myth that all Las Vegas weddings are tacky, tasteless, and a joke. Lets put aside the idea that the weddings are quick, devoid of any emotion or feeling, and cheap.
We decided to get married in Vegas for nostaligia, as my parents were married there. The town is exciting, and this kind of destination wedding was a blast. Our closest family and friends were there to celebrate, and all made a mini vacation out of it.
We chose the Forever Grand Wedding Chapel for many reasons. First and foremost the MGM Grand is my favorite resort, I love old films and the chapel boasts photos of the film stars of yesterday in their gowns. What better place to get married?
But thats only the tip of the iceberg. The chapel itself is modest, simple wall and carpet patterns, not to take way from my gown and flowers. Some chapels like the Paris for example were a bit ornate for our taste.
They have quite a few packages to accomodate all pocketbooks, including ceremonies in your suite, by the pool and inside two chapels. Our package was the Classic Elegance. We received a limo ride compliments of MGM the day before to pick up our license, flower pedals in the aisle, two large vases at the altar during the ceremony which they delivered to our room to enjoy days after the ceremony. 18 rose bouquet, boutennire for the groom, our own piano player, hair, makeup, manicure and pedicure, a wedding DVD, 3 gourmet chocolate bars wrapped in gold, a wedding album, and certificate holder, all in a lovely gift box. And 24 4x6 photos from the ceremony and studio. We were able to choose the pics we liked the next day for the album. You may purchase more for a fee, but our family had taken so many we feel we have enough. I was given a lovely room to get ready in, where our coordinator met with us and got us ready. The minister also comes in to give you a brief run down on what to expect. You can choose religious, civil, or religious/nondenominational services. So as you can see, you have many options. I was even able to chose the music for the pianist. They have a list, but if you have something else just bring the sheet music the night before and for a small fee that can be played for you.
Some of the extra services we paid for was a bouquet and boutennire for the best man, corsages for the moms, and interent viewing for up to 30 days for family and friends.
There are many upgrades for photos and other services too. The staff was warm, friendly and very accomodating. They are also very "protective" of their brides, ensuring she is the top priority! They have a vast knowledge of the wedding biz and aren't just there to take your money and kick you out. They even helped with my bustle after the ceremony.
Along the way you will see so many other brides in the hotels and on the strip, and passing congrats to each othe was so much fun. Vegas weddings are a blast!!!