Wedding planning can feel overwhelming no matter the context but when you add a new twist like a destination wedding, it can feel even harder to form a plan. If you’re just getting started, here are 13 tips to keep in mind during the planning process so you can create your dream destination wedding.
- Set a Realistic Budget
When you first get started with your destination wedding planning, the first place to begin is with your budget. Crunch the numbers to determine how much money you have to dedicate to the wedding and make sure you not only set aside money for your vendors, but also set aside some extra funds in case you go over budget as you move through the planning process.
- Choose a Suitable Venue
Once you know your budget, the next step is to start researching potential venues. When it comes to destination weddings, there will be a variety of spots to choose from—from beachfront resorts to wineries to all-inclusive cruise ships. Make a list of the must-haves to find the perfect spot for your wedding.
- Hire an Experienced Wedding Planner
If you’re planning a destination wedding, one of the first things to do is to hire a wedding planner who specializes in destination weddings. They’ll have access to destination-specific vendors and have the experience to help you make the most of your time in your destination.
- Create an Easy-to-Follow Timeline
Once you have the basics of your travel plans outlined—venue, planner, party members, etc.—you’ll need to create a timeline that lists each step of the planning process. Keep the timeline handy so you can stay organized and on-track as you move through the planning process.
- Book Flights and Accommodation for Guests Ahead of Time
One way to make the entire planning process easier is to book your groups’ flights and accommodations ahead of time. This step takes a lot of the stress away from your guests and makes the travel experience much more enjoyable.
- Utilize Notifications
Keep everyone in the loop throughout the travel planning process by utilizing notifications, whether they’re via email, text, or social media direct messages. By sending out timely messages and reminders of important steps, you’ll save yourself the hassle of chasing down members of the wedding party multiple times.
- Research Local Customs
Before you begin planning the “fun” elements of your destination wedding, research local customs to ensure that you’re not planning anything in bad faith. Be sure to speak to your destination wedding planner and venue to get the full scope of native customs and consider incorporating them into your special day if feasible.
- Find Vendors Who Are Experienced with Destination Weddings
Part of the charm of choosing a destination wedding is creating a new, exciting experience for your wedding party. With that said, it’s important to hire vendors who are experienced with destination-specific weddings—from florists to photographers to caterers—so you know their service is trustworthy.
- Avoid Completely Overhauling the Look of Your Venue
When it comes to destination weddings, it’s often the destination itself that’s the star of the show. Before you start completely overhauling the look of your venue, assess the full beauty of your destination and make sure you’re maximizing its aesthetics rather than detracting from them.
- Be Mindful of Travel Time
In addition to the time it takes to get to your destination, you need to be mindful of how much time it will take to get to and from each event while in your wedding spot. Consider consolidating events and activities to reduce travel time and help make things a bit simpler for your group.
- Dietary Restrictions
When considering the catering aspect of your destination wedding, make sure to read up on any local dietary restrictions in the area. Your guests may have religious or medical requirements, so double-check your vendor’s offerings to make sure everyone can enjoy a delicious meal on your wedding day.
- Make Health a Priority
Traveling can take a lot out of you, so be sure to make health a priority throughout your wedding trip. Make sure your location has access to medical services in case of an emergency and give your guests access to bottled water or an insulated water bottle so they can stay hydrated throughout the celebrations.
- Find Ways to Thank Your Guests
Your wedding is all about your guests, so make sure to find ways to thank them throughout your wedding day. Whether it’s gifting them with a wedding favor or having a private dinner reception, ensure you carve out some time to thank them for making the trek and spending the time with you on your special day.
Destination weddings can create a unique and special experience for you and your wedding party and they don’t have to be overly complicated. By keeping these tips in mind during the planning process, you can create the destination wedding experience of your dreams.
