Overseas weddings on the up, figures reveal

Thoughts of palm trees and sandy beaches are fast replacing traditional British wedding ceremonies for many young brides, research suggests.

A new report from Mintel shows that one in six British weddings now takes place abroad - the equivalent of 51,300 weddings are conducted overseas and an increase of 43 per cent compared to 2003's figures.

Tom Rees, senior travel analyst at Mintel, commented: "Getting married abroad has become an increasingly popular choice for couples looking to tie the knot. The market is benefiting from a growing willingness among couples to break with social convention and experiment with new wedding styles.

"From beach ceremonies in the Caribbean to 'snow weddings' in Lapland, this special occasion has certainly become more niche and personalised."

According to the experts, exotic celebrity weddings and vow renewal ceremonies are an influencing factor encouraging more Brits to look further afield when choosing a memorable wedding venue.

A cruise around the caribbean, skiing in Colorado or diving in Egypt…where do you fancy taking your honeymoon?