Planning a destination wedding is exciting, filled with dreams of picturesque locations, unique cultural experiences, and unforgettable moments. You’re going to have the perfect blend of travel and celebration. However it does require careful planning, maybe just a tad more than a regular wedding would.
Maybe you’re envisioning a romantic beachside ceremony, a fairytale castle celebration, or a vibrant cityscape backdrop. If you have been scratching your head trying to figure out exactly how to make it all work, the following guide is for you.
Here are some of the most important choices you’re going to need to make to ensure your big day is a success.
Tips for Planning the Perfect Destination Wedding
Choose the Destination
The first thing that you’re going to have to get right is the destination. The perfect destination wedding location ensures seamless travel, accommodations, and activities, enhancing the overall experience and making your special day as magical as envisioned. You’re going to need to get the perfect location so you should think about all the places that have some personal significance to you.
You want to make sure that all the places you are selecting have good scenery and will give you the wedding you have envisioned. Many popular destinations include tropical beaches, picturesque mountains and historic cities.
Take some time to research the weather and even look at the weather forecast for the season you’re planning to get married. The last thing you want is to have a torrential range of thunderstorms sweeping through your wedding because you have chosen the wrong season for the destination. Look at local customs and the legal requirements for marriage in the location.
Create a Budget
With every wedding, destination or not, you’re going to have to create a budget (no one wants to end up sinking their money into what seems like a bottomless pit). However, when planning a destination wedding, you will have some additional categories to budget for.
Travel Costs: Include airfare, transportation to and from the airport, and any additional travel expenses for the couple and guests.
Accommodations: Budget for hotel rooms or other lodging options for both the couple and their guests.
Legal Requirements: Research and include fees for marriage licenses, legal documents, and any translation services if needed.
Insurance: Consider purchasing wedding insurance to cover any unforeseen circumstances or cancellations.
Guest Activities: Budget for any planned activities or excursions for guests, as well as welcome gifts or favors.
Another important thing you need to consider is the currency exchange rate and the cost of living in the destination that you’re choosing as it can make a big impact on your budget.
Hire a Good Wedding Planner
A good wedding planner is something that you are going to need in a situation like this. Their help will be invaluable especially if you’re unfamiliar with the destination. They can recommend all the reputable vendors that you’re going to need for your wedding. You will also be able to get a better feel for the area.
The best thing you can do is make sure you find someone who’s used to everything in the destination.
Hire a Good Photographer
One of the vendors you really need to make sure you get right is your photographer. This person is going to capture all those special moments that you have to look back on for years to come, so of course you’ll want to select the right person.
Four reasons to hire a local photographer for your destination wedding are:
• Familiar with the Location: Local photographers know the best spots, lighting conditions, and unique features of the area, ensuring stunning and well-composed photos.
• Cost-Effective: Hiring a local photographer can save on travel and accommodation expenses that you would incur by bringing in an outsider.
• Local Connections: A local photographer often has connections with other vendors and venues, which can be helpful in coordinating and planning your wedding day.
• Understanding of Local Customs: They are familiar with local customs and traditions, which can be crucial in capturing culturally significant moments authentically.
You’ll also want to choose a photographer who provides the style of photography you want as well. The most common are the traditional style and wedding photojournalism. Of course, there are other styles that you may want to consider as well.
Create Your Guest List
The next thing you’re going to make sure you’re doing right for your destination wedding is the guest list. Decide who you want to invite to your wedding and send out to the invite well in advance so your guests have ample time to pull the money together to afford the trip, as well as time to make the necessary arrangements needed to make the trip. Make sure to provide them information about travel expenses and accommodations as well.
Select Your Venue
Of course, choosing the right venue is crucial. Knowing how many guests you plan to invite is important as the amount of guests you have will determine the needed venue capacity.
Do not skimp on this. You want to make sure that everybody can feel comfortable. Otherwise you’re going to have grumbling guests and this is never good for a destination wedding. People would have spent a lot of money to come to the venue in many cases and you’ll want to ensure that they won’t be uncomfortable or disappointed in any way. It can put a damper on your big day.
When selecting your destination wedding venue, of course it’s important to find out the venue’s capacity (can they comfortably accommodate your guest list?), as well as what amenities and services they offer (do they have in-house catering or any décor items you can use?). However, other key considerations for choosing the ceremony and reception venue for your destination wedding are:
Accessibility: Consider the ease of access for you and your guests, including proximity to airports, transportation options, and any special needs accommodations.
Weather: Account for the local climate and season, and consider whether the venue offers indoor and outdoor options or contingency plans for adverse weather.
Local Regulations: Research any local laws and regulations that may impact your wedding, such as noise restrictions, curfews, or permit requirements.
Cultural Significance: Consider any cultural or historical significance of the venue that may enhance the experience and make your wedding more meaningful.
Conclusion
Planning a destination wedding is an exciting adventure that requires careful consideration and detailed preparation. By choosing the perfect location, managing your budget wisely, and selecting the right local vendors, you can create a seamless and unforgettable experience for you and your guests.
Remember, the key to a successful destination wedding is thorough research, clear communication, and a touch of flexibility. With these tips in mind, you’re well on your way to turning your dream wedding into a beautiful reality, set against the backdrop of a stunning destination.
Photo Credit: Terje Sollie via Pexels
* This is a contributed post
I hope you found this information useful!
Hearts, Joy, Love!
Jean
Author of “Wedding Invitations, RSVPs, and More! Oh My!” and “From ‘I Will’ to ‘I Do’”
Have questions about your wedding? Call or text me at 937-581-3647, or email me at jean@weddingsfromtheheart.net!