Dos and Don’ts: How to plan a destination wedding
(Before we begin, I highly recommend hiring a wedding planner if you have the budget for one as they will have all the local knowledge and take a weight off your shoulders. I have been lucky to work with the best Paris based planners over the years so if you need any recommendations don’t hesitate to ask!)
Finding and marrying your one true love is already amazing. But if the wedding happens at a white sand beach, on top of a hill, or in the foreign country where your partner proposed, then it becomes even more magical. The appeal of a destination wedding is undeniable, especially since you can stay there for your honeymoon.
But planning a destination wedding can be a real pain if you don’t know where to start. Choosing the destination is only one of your many considerations. When should you send out invitations? Should you get a wedding planner?
Fortunately, we made you an easy-to-follow list of dos and don'ts for the perfect destination wedding!
Destination Wedding Dos
Choose a special spot.
Your choice of venue should tell guests a thing or two about you and your partner. It could be your favorite vacation place. If you’re both fond of hiking, a mountainous location would suit you best. Other wedding elements like the color motif, flowers, and food should also closely fit the mood you wish to set.
Get the timing right.
Besides the weather, you should also check the tourist season when planning the best wedding date. Don’t choose a date that falls in the typhoon or monsoon months. If it’s peak season for tourists, the crowd might make it hard for you and your guests to enjoy the activities lined up for your special day. But going in the off-season might mean several local shops will be closed.
Give guests enough time.
If the wedding will take place overseas, you should book flights and rooms as early as a year prior. Your guests will also need a heads up when they arrange their own trips and accommodations. So, send save-the-date notes at least eight months in advance. Official wedding invites should be sent at least three months before the big day. For domestic weddings, you can send out invitations a bit later.
Coordinate and delegate.
Chances are, your wedding venue will have an event coordinator who will take care of local requirements and preparations. You might also need to hire an overall wedding planner to deal with suppliers. Communicate with your planners regularly and openly.Take advantage of the local event specialist’s knowledge by asking for ideas for your wedding itinerary. Don’t be afraid to ask for help from friends and family when tasks get overwhelming. They’ll surely want the best for your special day, too.
Enjoy.
After months of planning and prepping, you deserve to feel relaxed and ready on your wedding day. Travel ahead of your guests so you can welcome them when you arrive. Your happiness should be seen most especially on your face, so make sure you look fab on your wedding day.
Destination Wedding Don’ts
Don’t sacrifice comfort.
There might be a scenic spot you’ve always wanted to get married in since childhood, but it won’t work if it doesn’t have the resources you need. Consider if the place has enough hotels to accommodate wedding attendees. Also, you wouldn’t want your guests to travel from plane to bus to boat before they reach the venue. Prioritize you and your guests’ comfort and safety. Remember to factor in your budget, too.
Don’t underestimate expenses.
Make it a habit to create a detailed budget that includes an extra fund for unforeseen expenses. Destination weddings are usually intimate because the couple only invites the most important persons in their lives. Although you aren’t expected to shoulder the accommodations of your guests, you should ensure their comfort and convenience. Prepare activities, such as photography sessions or a welcome dinner, to make them feel that their time and presence are valued. Also consider the currency used and accepted at your destination.
Don’t forget THE details.
Again, coordinate closely with your local event planner so that you can get any documents or fees settled before the big day. Marriage requirements in a foreign country should be factored in. Educate yourself and do the necessary paperwork. Better yet, have your wedding planners take care of the papers. Pack your passports and documents early. You wouldn’t want your wedding to be spoiled by a small detail you overlooked. Speaking of small things, don’t forget your wedding rings! Double check any engravings on them, too.
Quick recap
When your destination wedding is over, you should be ready to transition to your honeymoon. While that requires a whole set of other preparations, it’s important to have a hassle-free wedding so that you can focus on the honeymoon after your ceremony. Let’s have a quick recap of destination wedding dos and don’ts.
Do:
Choose a spot special to you and your partner.
Time your wedding right.
Notify guests as early as possible.
Hire professionals to help you plan your wedding.
Have fun on the big day.
Don’t:
Sacrifice safety for sentimentality.
Overspend or underspend.
Forget the little things.
ABOUT THE AUTHOR:
Sophia Young is a content writer covering lifestyle and fashion topics. She’s actively participating as a contributor for various lifestyle blogs and has been co-authoring some articles of her colleagues. She’s currently enrolled in a content marketing course hoping to expand her knowledge in digital marketing.
For additional information click below:
The Ultimate Wedding Planning Checklist: A Practical Guide of What You Need to Do and When