If the thought of marrying your partner amongst the stars is a dream come true, consider this: Space Perspectives, an Australian company that provides re-imagined space travel experiences, is offering a chance for couples to get married in outer space.
The company’s website states that the space wedding, which begins with a pre-flight preparation session and a short film, will include “two hours of unrivalled space viewing. Guests will be able to delight in the quintessential astronaut experience, witnessing Earth’s curve, its total blackness, and the atmosphere.” The firm says it will also offer personalized dining options and soundtracks.
If this sounds like the perfect way to say, “I do,” you’ll need to be a willing space explorer and have deep pockets. Prices start at $125,000 for a seat aboard the Neptune capsule.
Ekaterina Dmitrieva, a Russian citizen who holds dual U.S. citizenship, and cosmonaut Yuri Malenchenko held the first space wedding in 2003. They were married via satellite video link, with her at NASA headquarters and him at the International Space Station. She wore her white dress and he wore his flight suit, though he added a bow tie for the occasion. He had to break a rule against getting married in orbit, since his work is classified as state business.
It’s possible that the ISS will be available for weddings in 2024, but you’ll need to get on a waiting list. The company expects a lot of interest.
As the cost of traditional venues rise, many couples are choosing raw spaces — think an industrial warehouse, brewery or airport hangar — as their one-of-a-kind wedding venue. Many of these spaces can be found at a lower price but are often bare bones and will require additional rentals for tables, chairs, flatware, china, etc.
Once the basic logistics of the venue are in place, you’ll want to explore creative ways to make it your own. Look at photos of your favorite raw spaces for inspiration, and try to incorporate elements of the space into your decor. This will help create a true, one-of-a-kind event that will leave your guests saying, “Wow!”
Another key element of a successful wedding is an experienced planner. Not only will they be able to guide you through the logistics of your day, but they’ll be able to help you keep track of your budget. They’ll also ensure that your vendors are communicating well and will deliver on their promises.
Whether you’re planning a small backyard gathering or a big extraterrestrial celebration, the right planner will transform your vision into reality. They can assist you with finding the perfect raw space, and then help you turn it into your ideal wedding venue. They can even recommend the best vendors for your unique space, making the process easier and less stressful. A good planner will be a lifesaver and can save you time, money and stress. So don’t hesitate to ask for their advice.