PLANNING A DESTINATION WEDDING? HERE'S HOW TO PAY LESS AND GET MORE

Destination weddings were all the rage until the economy put a damper on the travel plans of brides who dreamed of tying the knot on a wind-swept shore on a tropical island. If you've backburnered your destination wedding plans, here's some news that may cause you to think again.

First, you need a little attitude adjustment. You want to be married on a beach. That doesn't mean it has to be in the Caribbean. Your family and friends will love you more if you save them some airfare. And, if you can deliver on the promise of a beautiful location with character and elegance, who cares if it's offshore?

Scratch the pricey and exotic locations from your wish list because I've got two words for you that will save you a bundle and set the stage for the wedding of your dreams: Pawleys Plantation.

Tucked just inland from the Atlantic Ocean, Pawleys Plantation is cooled by sea breezes that gently sway the palm trees and rustle the Spanish moss in the giant oak trees of this former rice plantation. One writer from Elegant Bride magazine swooned that it “sets a high standard for Lowcountry romance.” And, when you pull up to the beautiful clubhouse with its massive white columns, you'll understand why. Inside, there's a 4,500 square foot ballroom that drips with southern charm; and outside, a spectacular veranda tailor-made for weddings. Still want your vows exchanged on the beach? It's nearby and Pawleys Plantation will help with those arrangements too.

Next, check out the spacious and beautifully-appointed villas where everyone in the wedding party can relax in surroundings of casual elegance and southern charm. Take in the spectacle of the awesome Jack Nicklaus golf course with its salt marsh views and the ocean beyond. Tennis, swimming, a fitness center. And lots of paths for scenic strolls hand-in-hand or riding a bicycle built for two.

No other place delivers such extraordinary value and atmoshere.

So, how come this resort is so affordable? Like others in the travel business, this sweet little location is looking for a way to climb out of the recession and jump-start its next year. They've cooked up some special add-ons to help build their 2010 wedding business back to pre-recession levels.

When a wedding is booked before December 31, 2009, Pawleys Plantation will throw in complimentary wedding night accommodations for the bride and groom. To get the party started, the resort will spring for a complimentary champagne toast for all guests. Got some golfers on your guest list? Pawleys Plantation is throwing in a complimentary round of golf for four.

There's even a 10% discount on food and beverages when you make a reservation for both your rehearsal dinner and wedding reception at the resort. And, last – but certainly not least -- Pawleys Plantation stretches the wedding dollar ever farther by inviting the bride and groom to relive the magic a year after the big event with a complimentary night of accommodations on their first anniversary.

So, where is this place? Pawleys Plantation is in Pawleys Island, S.C., a quaint little beach town about 30 miles south of the hustle and bustle of Myrtle Beach and an hour north of historic Charleston. USAToday.com calls it “one of the snazziest resorts on the Grand Strand.”

As the economy strengthens, perks like these probably won't last, so check this place out now at www.pawleysplantation.com. And, be sure to ask about group rates so your friends can share in the savings.