Destination Weddings: Tips for Planning the Perfect Celebration

Destination weddings are becoming increasingly popular, allowing couples to celebrate their love in a unique and meaningful location. However, planning a wedding far from home comes with its own set of challenges. Here are some top tips for pulling off the perfect event.

Should You Have a Destination Wedding?

The first step in planning a destination wedding is deciding whether it’s the right choice for you and your partner. Choose a location that holds special meaning for you both. A place you’ve vacationed before and fallen in love with, like Hawaii, could be perfect if you envision a beach wedding.

Managing Guest Lists and Numbers

A critical consideration for destination weddings is the guest list. You can expect a significant drop-off rate depending on how far away your destination is. While you might have many attendees for a local wedding, only a fraction may be able to travel to a distant location.

Timing is Everything

Timing your wedding right is crucial. Planning around the summer period makes it easier for guests to take time off work, and many might use your wedding location as the starting point for their holidays. However, checking the local weather is essential to avoid surprises on your big day. Researching the weather patterns and choosing a dry season can help ensure a perfect day.

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Image via Jack Henry

Budget Considerations

Budgeting for a destination wedding involves more than just the usual wedding expenses. Hosting guests in another country includes additional costs like detailed invitations, hotel transfers, welcome bags, a welcome dinner, or a post-wedding brunch. While these extras can add up, fewer guests travelling overseas might offset some costs. Remember potential shipping costs if you must transport items like wedding chairs from another location. Also, negotiate discounted rates for your guests if they stay at a hotel.

Travelling with Your Wedding Dress

A critical piece of advice is to never check in your wedding dress. Carry your dress on the plane and ask the airline to hang it up. The airport has many spills and a horror story of oil seeping through the dress bag of someone carrying a wedding dress on the plane, so double-bag and maybe even triple-bag your dress. Also, keep your wedding shoes and other essential items in your carry-on if your checked luggage gets lost.

Planning the Details

Having local support can make a world of difference. Even if you’re a professional event stylist, having someone local to help manage the wedding and coordinate with local suppliers is essential. Visit your wedding location in advance to meet suppliers and sample caterers and tour multiple venues. Take plenty of photos and videos during your site visit. If in-person visiting isn’t feasible, use the venue’s events team for pictures and detailed information. Clear communication and lots of video calls will be essential.

Image via Jack Henry

Dos and Don’ts

Dos:

  • Develop a User-Friendly Website: Create a website for your guests with all the necessary information about your wedding, including hotels, local restaurants, and activities.
  • Use Local Suppliers: Leveraging local suppliers can simplify logistics and support the local economy.
  • Be Flexible with Décor: Certain decor items might not be available on an island or remote location. Be prepared to adapt your wedding style to what’s locally available.

Don’ts:

  • Forget About Your Guests: Make your guests feel welcome with a thoughtful welcome bag in their rooms. Include an itinerary, a Lilo, sunblock, and local treats.
  • Leave Everything to the Planner: Ensure your vision is communicated. Provide references and inspiration to your planner.
  • Check Important Items: Never put essential items for your wedding in checked luggage. Always carry them with you.

Conclusion

Planning a destination wedding can be a magical experience but requires careful planning and consideration. By following these tips and being prepared for the unique challenges, you can create a memorable and seamless celebration in a beautiful location. For more wedding tips and inspiration, subscribe to our newsletter for exclusive advice and a free planning checklist. Follow us on Instagram @thebridaljourney, listen to our podcast, shop and buy preloved on Reveiled, and follow us on TikTok for the latest trends and behind-the-scenes content.

Written by The Bridal Journey Editorial Team.