Once upon a time, couples ran away to Las Vegas to elope. Today, this exciting city is an increasingly popular location for a destination wedding. The city thrives on theme hotels, shopping, and of course, casinos at every turn. Las Vegas is local enough that you can invite a few guests, yet far enough away to transport you to another world for your big day. Here are a few facts you will need to know when planning your destination wedding Las Vegas.

Choosing Your Chapel
Your most important decision regarding your destination wedding in Las Vegas is where the ceremony will take place. From there, you will select your hotel and map out directions to the Marriage Bureau. To make things easier, you may want to select a hotel that has a wedding chapel on the premises. These include:

• The Bellagio: A luxurious Italian-style hotel complete with a gorgeous water display out front.
• Mandalay Bay: Perfect for an "island paradise" wedding.
• The Venetian: Get married in style on the edge of the Grand Canal.
• Caesars Palace: Enjoy ancient Rome with modern-day amenities.
• Treasure Island: Invite your guests to see the exciting Mystere show, performed by Cirque de Soleil.

You can also select from dozens of local chapels in the Las Vegas area. Check online to see exterior and interior images; some even have a live video feed so your friends back home can watch your nuptials take place.

Theme Weddings
If you'd like to add a little fun to your big day, check out the variety of theme weddings available through hotels or wedding planners. You can be serenaded by Elvis, get married aboard a pirate ship, or even have a Star Trek character finalize your vows. Choices are virtually limitless in this city of fantasy and play.

Hotels and Amenities
If you're on a budget, don't worry. Even the most exotic or elegant Las Vegas hotels tend to run specials. Call or check online to find out about these popular places to stay while in Las Vegas:

• MGM Grand
• New York, New York
• Bally's
• The Mirage
• Paris Las Vegas
• Flamingo Las Vegas

You'll also find "economy" hotels and motels within driving distance of wedding chapels and the many casinos that brighten the Las Vegas skyline. Consider hiring a wedding coordinator to help you arrange things, including airline tickets, hotel or motel stay, and the wedding day. Las Vegas destination-wedding packages are available, too.

Getting Married in Clark County
Before you wed in Las Vegas, you will need to visit the Marriage Bureau. No blood test is required; you can apply for your license and tie the knot the very same day. You will need to bring your birth certificate, a divorce decree if you were previously married, or a death certificate if you are a widow or widower.

Sharing Your Honeymoon
Because it's within the U.S., you can invite more guests than you would for an out-of-the-country destination wedding. Make sure you give your guests plenty of notice to allow for time off from work (see Destination Wedding Etiquette). Las Vegas is a highly popular vacation spot; it's likely your guests will be happy to come along and share in your excitement. Find out from your wedding coordinator or travel agent whether specials may be available for your guests as well, and pass the information along.

With a destination wedding Las Vegas, you can allow your imagination to run wild. This is one destination wedding that can be as fun to plan as it is to attend.