The Luxury Travel Bible loves a good wedding... and if we can combine one with travel, all the better. It would seem that many others share this sentiment. More and more luxury-loving couples are turning their backs on 'traditional' weddings (and the inevitable stress that goes along with them) and instead are chosing to jet off for a wedding abroad. TLTB went to wedding expert, Rachel Southwood to learn more about this new trend. As owner and MD of Wedding Ideas, the UK's leading wedding magazine she knows all the insider secrets for a stress-free destination wedding. And for the traditionalists amongst us she also explains why destination weddings can be very special and personal.

Rachel Southwood, Editor and MD of 'Wedding Ideas' magazine

I'm a traditional girl at heart, with a deep love of the traditional English country garden wedding where the bride wears a lace dress with sleeves a la Kate Middleton, the knock of croquet balls and laughter hangs in the air and children knee slide along the dance floor before, finally, everyone including Great Grandma Ivy gets up for a boogie... 

2 Check out your airline's policy on transporting your wedding dress. You don't want to be putting it in the hold, and if you have no other option, pack it in your case with acid free paper. Hang it up as soon as you arrive to let the creases drop out.

3 Don't be surprised if everyone you've ever known wants to come with you. It's not a fool-proof way of avoiding inviting people, believe me. Also, you can expect some point to invite themselves.

4 Mention your wedding to everyone you speak to in relation to the trip - you'll be surprised what little treats might await you along the way, even if it's just a glass of bubbly on the plane.

5 Be kind to your groom if you're going somewhere hot. Full blown tails or a suit are going to leave him sweltering and uncomfortable - not a good look.

6 Like me, you will often find your minister or celebrant more consultative than they would be over here. As soon as you get to your destination arrange to talk to them about your wishes and dreams for that big moment.

7 Good hotels and resorts will have an onsite wedding planner who has all the best contacts in the area. This person is going to be really important in the lead-up to and on your big day so keep communication going and be friendly in all correspondence. Remember that emails can easily be misconstrued.

8 Post pictures on Facebook as soon as you can - there will be lots of people back home desperate to see you in your dress.

9 One of the beauties of having a wedding abroad is that you're already on honeymoon! If you have a big group with you, make sure you get at least a day away from them - it might be worth considering at least a night in another hotel after the wedding.

10 Don't forget a high factor sun cream before you step outside on your wedding day. It's a tale of woe we often hear... The last thing you need on your wedding night is scratchy, blistering sunburn.