How To Plan Your Destination Wedding
So you’re getting married somewhere different, huh? Well, there are lots of choices whether you’re looking to stay in the country or venture outside of it. Wherever you choose to say your “I do’s,” be sure to consider the following list when making your plans.
Location, location, location - Choose a destination that reflects your style and vision for the wedding (and that of your partner, of course). Consider the climate, local attractions and accessibility for you and your guests.
Budget - Destination weddings can be more expensive than traditional weddings due to travel and accommodations. Make sure to budget for these expenses and consider any currency exchange rates if leaving the country.
Guests - Keep your guests in mind when choosing the location and date. Consider their travel arrangements, accommodations and any additional activities or excursions you want to include for them. Remember that the further you travel outside your bubble the fewer guests you are likely to have.
Legalities - Research the legal requirements for getting married in your chosen destination, including any necessary paperwork, residency requirements or permits. No one wants to find out at the last minute that their marriage isn’t legal or just plain isn’t going to take place.
Vendors - Find reliable vendors, such as a planner, photographer, florist and caterer who are familiar with the destination and can help you navigate any challenges. You can certainly choose vendors from the destination location or hire vendors near you who are open to travel. Remember that there are often associated costs regarding travel and accommodations when hiring vendors.
Logistics - Provide your guests with detailed information about travel arrangements, including transportation options, accommodation recommendations as well as any special discounts or group rates available to them. The easier you make it for guests to travel to your wedding the more guests will RSVP “Yes.”
Weather - Be prepared for the weather conditions at your destination, especially if you're planning an outdoor wedding. Familiarize yourself with seasons that may be troublesome. Have a backup plan in case of rain or dangerous conditions.
Communicate - Keep open lines of communication with your vendors, guests and planner throughout the process. Stay in touch and don’t let anyone fall through the gap.
Cultural considerations - Respect the local customs and traditions of your destination, and incorporate them into your wedding celebration if you’d like. Make sure there isn’t anything that will affect what you have planned for your big day.
Timeline - Start planning your wedding well in advance to allow for ample time to research, book vendors and coordinate travel arrangements. There is a lot that goes into planning this trip. Consider factors such as peak tourist seasons and local holidays when setting your wedding date.
Health and safety - Stay informed about any health and safety guidelines or travel restrictions related to your destination, especially in light of any global events or health concerns (Pandemic…). You may need specific vaccines depending on where you’re traveling. Your guests will need to be aware of this as well.
Get personal - Incorporate personal touches and elements of your own style into the wedding to make it unique and meaningful to you as a couple.
By keeping these things in mind you can plan a destination wedding that is unforgettable! It also makes it nice if your honeymoon location is right outside the venue, haha.