Must-Read Tips For A Destination Wedding

Destination WEdding tips

More couples are opting for destination weddings, and who can blame them? There's something romantic about getting married in a separate location than where you reside, but the logistics of planning your wedding remotely can cause a bit of panic. We can’t promise there won't be any hiccups, but it’s not nearly as difficult to get married abroad as you may first believe. All it takes is some research and careful planning to create your unique and distinctive wedding.  

I. PLAN EARLY

When planning a destination wedding, you will need at least 6 months of planning. However, 12-18 months are ideal. Planning a large trip for family and friends will take time. Just think about how hard it is to get everyone together for Sunday night dinner. The sooner you can pick a date and destination the better. This is also true for the best rates on travel/accommodations.

 

II. CHOOSE A FAMILIAR LOCALE

It's best to choose a city/location that you are familiar with. By knowing the lay of the land you can easily envision your event, set realistic expectations and further cement your connection to your chosen location. 

 

III. VISIT IN ADVANCE

Take at least one planning trip, and if you can swing it, two or three. On the first trip secure event spaces, hotels, rehearsal venue, caterer, florist and photographer. During your second visit (if possible), schedule a tasting with your caterer, view sample bouquets from the florist and schedule a hair and makeup session. 

 

IV. VENDOR SOURCING

We strongly suggest making at least one planning trip to meet with potential vendors. However, if you have to hire some services unseen, make sure to schedule a video chat before signing a contract. We also advise to consider hiring a wedding planner that can shoulder the burden of researching and securing local services and manage the logistics.

 

V. GUEST COUNT

Think about who you would like to spend your wedding day with and compile a list. You will want to speak to your guests as early as possible in order to estimate the numbers of attendees.

 

VI. INFORMATION

Provide guests will plenty of information from travel requirements, timelines and emergency contact numbers. If possible, designate a central point of contact (planner or venue coordinator) that guests can reach out to throughout the event week/weekend.  

REAL TALK: A wedding website or information pack are great ways to share everything with your guests. To find out what to include, click here.

 

VII. KNOW THE LEGALITIES

Once you have found the requirements for your destination, compile a binder of all your paperwork and documents and make sure to create a timeline of important deadlines. If there are residency requirements or paperwork needs that cannot be fulfilled, consider having a legal union at home followed by a non-binding ceremony at your destination location. 

 

VIII. THE DRESS

Never check your wedding dress. Always carry your dress on board the plane, even if it means having to fold it. Just make sure someone at the other end can press and steam it.