A nearby destination offers you the atmosphere and amenities you need to make your big day unforgettable. From the vast desert to the big city, the American Southwest boasts plenty of luxurious, picture-perfect locations for your big day. These five wedding destination locations truly stand out from the rest in the Southwest.

1. Say "I Do!" in Sin City: A Las Vegas Wedding

Unlike what you've heard on TV, not all Las Vegas weddings are spur of the moment decisions, and you definitely want to plan ahead. With a plethora of venues, from quaint chapels to lavish hotels, Las Vegas truly is one of the best spots in the country to host a wedding. You could choose the gorgeous Chapel of the Flowers if you want an artsy, classy environment. For a charming tropical theme, you could book the Hawaiian Gardens (located at the Hilton Garden Inn). And if you are looking for an elegant, luxurious wedding, look no further than the famous Bellagio: Las Vegas. In addition to these stand-out venues, there are plenty more to choose from. Best yet, your guests have plenty of entertainment options in between events, as well as seemingly countless lodging options. After all, Las Vegas buzzes with energy and endless fun. When you send out invitations, you could also attach an activity guide with recommendations, such as trying your luck at your favorite casino, seeing the Shark Reef at Mandalay Bay, and touring the Mob Museum. Your family and friends will never forget seeing you tie the knot in Las Vegas, one of the world's most entertaining cities.

2. Host Your Big Day in a Small Town: A Taos, New Mexico Wedding

Located roughly two hours northeast of Santa Fe, Taos is a delightful town that's certain to impress your guests with its vibrant arts scene, clay architecture, and proximity to numerous outdoor recreational spots. The Sangre de Cristo Mountains that overlook the town only add to the beautiful scene. You can host your wedding at the relaxed and hospitable Casa Benavides Bed and Breakfast Inn, the stylish and historic Hotel La Fonda de Taos, or if a cowboy wedding is your thing, at the Kit Carson Home and Museum. Your guests will love the truly unique experience that is a visit to the town of Taos. If they have free time, they should check out attractions like the Harwood Museum of Art and Taos Pueblo, an ancient adobe village with more than 1,000 years of history. For the more adventurous activities, hike the nearby mountains or even ski at the nearby Taos Ski Valley.

3. Say Yes Near a Natural Wonder: A Grand Canyon Wedding

Marriage is a beautiful thing, so it only makes sense to get married in a beautiful setting. The Grand Canyon provides that opportunity. For a formal affair, there are several options near the park, notably the EL Tovar Hotel, a stunning national landmark with epic vistas of the canyon, and Bright Angel Lodge, which provides a more rustic environment. If you obtain a permit from the National Park Service, you can even hold your own customized wedding within Grand Canyon National Park; you'd never forget the inspiring views as you said, "I do!" Between the festivities, your friends and family can do everything from hiking and rafting to taking helicopter rides and jeep tours.

4. Have Your Wedding Atop a Snow-Capped Mountain: An Aspen, Colorado Wedding

What's better than getting married in the Rocky Mountains? Getting married in one of the coolest towns in the Rockies, that's what. The list of available venues is long, and includes the Aspen Meadows Resort, an upscale hotel nestled on 40 acres of land, the St. Regis Aspen Resort, a fabulous hotel and event center near Gondola Plaza, and Mountain Chalet Aspen, a charming lodging that features a solar-heated outdoor pool, large game room and several event facilities. Before and after the ceremony, your friends and family have access to all sorts of activities, from skiing at one of the world-class slopes and driving over Independence Pass to attending a show at the Wheeler Opera House and shopping downtown. To put it simply, your wedding in Aspen is something your guests will talk about for years to come.

5. Tie the Knot Next to a Majestic Lake: A Salt Lake City Wedding

Everyone knows about the largest saltwater lake in the western hemisphere. Indeed, Great Salt Lake is quite scenic, and makes the perfect place to hold your ceremony. The downtown area, which is very close to the lake, boasts a solid selection of venues, including the renowned Grand America Hotel, arguably the best in the city for weddings, and Hotel Monaco, an eye-catching boutique hotel. During downtime, guests can explore Salt Lake City, boat on the lake, trek through Antelope Island State Park, ski the slopes, and more. You and your guests also have the convenience of the proximity of Salt Lake City International Airport for all your travel needs.

These five American Southwest locations showcase all you could ever want for your wedding. As you send out those invites, advise your guests to buy travel insurance from Allianz Global Assistance to ensure a joyous occasion for all involved.

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