Your dream venue for your dream wedding has stunning scenery that provides the perfect backdrop to say “I do” and celebrate with your friends and family. It just so happens to require a little travel to get there.
Technically, a destination wedding is defined by being hosted outside of the couple’s hometowns, requiring guests to travel. But the modern definition tends to conjure images of exotic locations.
The logistics of a wedding are tricky enough to get right without being thousands of miles away. Here are some strategies for how to plan a destination wedding while minimizing the stress that comes with it.
Research and Plan Early
This is a useful tip to follow for all weddings, but especially for out-of-town or out-of-country destinations. Time before your wedding passes in the blink of an eye, so getting an early start on research and planning will only be a benefit.
You’ll also want to consider what the location means for your other wedding details. Will it be a location that may be difficult for guests to access? What are the vendors in the area like, or will you have to bring your own?
What are the social and political climates like, and will it be safe for all your guests to attend? Are there any travel warnings or advisories?
The earlier you start the planning and research process, the less likely you’ll be doing things at the last minute. That will save you plenty of stress in the long run.
Make Location and Venue a Priority
If you’re going out of state or out of the country for a wedding, there’s a good reason the location is the most important detail to you. So, of course, you’ll want to make that and the wedding venue a priority.
Finding the venue should be the first item you check off your to-do list, as that often affects other parts of your planning, including the date and vendors. Some places may be all-inclusive, others may require a little more planning.
Visit the Destination in Advance
Though the internet is a great tool, when it comes to a destination wedding, visiting the location in advance is a must. Don’t just trust images and reviews from strangers; see it for yourself.
Plan a trip where you and your fiance spend two to four days in your destination. This is a good time to visit the venue and get an idea of what you’re working with.
But don’t only stay around your venue; venture out into the area as a whole. Visit local restaurants and shops, walk through the town, and see what the destination has to offer.
Hire a Wedding Planner
Wedding planners take a lot of the stress off since they handle the logistical aspect. You’ll want to hire a wedding planner that is either from the area, specializes in the location, or specializes in destination weddings.
Having one that’s knowledgeable and connected will ensure the planning process goes smoothly. These professionals can often be at your destination when you’re not and keep things running smoothly when you’re miles away.
If you can’t afford to hire a wedding planner for the duration of the planning process, a day-of coordinator can help ensure the wedding day runs smoothly.
Consider Lodging Options
Because your guests will also be traveling, lodging should be a priority when you’re planning. In general, try to find lodging within a ten- to fifteen-mile radius of the venue.
Consider the location of the accommodations in relation to the venue. Will guests be able to drive or take public transportation, or will you provide a service to shuttle them?
You’ll also want to consider where the accommodations are located. Are there restaurants and attractions around? Is it a safe area?
Finally, the question of who pays for lodging. Some hotels may allow you to reserve blocks for your guests to stay in. Or they can provide recommendations at different price points for guests to choose.
Local vs. Non-Local Vendors
With a destination wedding, it’s a good idea to have some vendors be local. Consider florists, entertainment, and catering that’s already in the area. These local vendors can also help save you money on travel fees.
But if you will hire non-local vendors, be sure they have experience with destination weddings. When it comes to photography for destination weddings, you’ll want someone who can capture the setting as much as the festivities.
Local Marriage Requirements Differ
Every country has different requirements for making marriage legal. They can require different documents, from birth certificates to proof of residency. Be sure to do your research on what your destination requires.
It may be better to get a domestic marriage certificate where you live and have a small domestic civil ceremony to make it official. But if you want to be officially married at your destination, start work on the requirements early.
Gather Travel Documents in Advance
Destination weddings still involve traveling, so you need to have all of your travel documents in advance.
Do research on what your location requires for entry, which can include passports, visas, health records, vaccinations, and lists of previously visited countries.
It’s also important to tell your guests what documents they’ll need in order to attend.
When you send save the dates and invitations, send them far in advance and include what travel documents they’ll need so they can prepare them in advance as well.
Your Guide on How to Plan a Destination Wedding
There are so many details to consider when planning a wedding that the process can quickly become overwhelming. That’s especially the case for a destination wedding because you’ll be planning while being miles away.
But if you have your heart set on a certain location, you don’t have to give it up. Follow the tips on how to plan a destination wedding and say “I do” with the most stunning scenery.
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