Planning a Destination Wedding: Dos and Don'ts
Planning a destination wedding can be an exhilarating adventure, whether it's just a few hours away or across continents. We understand that a destination wedding isn’t just about the ‘I dos’. It’s an experience – a chance for you and your guests to create lasting memories in a stunning setting. But you might wonder, "How do we host a memorable gathering for our family and friends in a place far from home?"
Here are our top dos and don'ts to help you navigate the exciting journey of planning a destination wedding:
The Dos of Destination Wedding Planning
Choose Your Location and Time Wisely
Selecting the perfect spot for your big day involves more than just falling in love with the scenery. Consider factors like weather patterns, peak tourist seasons, and local events. A breathtaking beach might be less appealing during monsoon or hurricane season, and a quaint European town could be overcrowded during a major festival.
Embrace the Local Culture
Infuse your wedding with the unique flavor of your destination. From local cuisine and decor to traditional music and customs, integrating these elements can make your wedding truly stand out and provide an immersive experience for you and your guests.
Check Local Marriage Requirements
Different countries and states have varying legal requirements for marriage. Research and ensure you comply with these laws to avoid any surprises. With most destination couples, we’ve found they prefer to handle the legalities at home with a small ceremony or simple justice of the peace service and then have a symbolic ceremony and reception with more of their friends and family at their ideal destination.
Plan Travel Logistics
If your destination requires passports, visas, or vaccinations, inform your guests well in advance. For weddings where travel is a must for most guests, we suggest sending your Save the Dates at least 10 months in advance to allow your guests ample time to complete all the necessary travel requirements and logistics. It's also a good idea to notify your bank and credit card companies about your travel plans to prevent any financial hiccups.
The Don’ts of Destination Wedding Planning
Don’t Book Sight Unseen
It’s unnerving to book venues or vendors without a proper vetting process. If you can’t visit in person, utilize video calls to meet vendors and see venues. Rely on your planner's knowledge and network to make informed decisions. At The Planning Bee, our full-service and destination packages includes site visits, which we are more than happy to do on your behalf if you don’t have the time off of work to join in.
Avoid Last-Minute Shipping
Shipping items to your destination can be risky and expensive. If you decide to choose a destination where there are no local vendors and shipping is the only option, be sure to allow ample time for shipping. We always aim to ship everything at least a month in advance to help mitigate any unexpected delays.
We don't just send off your items into the ether, though. We make sure there's a tracking system in place, and we coordinate with a designated person at the venue to receive and safeguard everything. This way, we know exactly where your items are at all times, and so do you.
For those pieces that just can't be shipped, or for added peace of mind, we often recommend packing them in checked luggage. This strategy ensures that your most essential items travel with you, reducing the risk of them getting lost or delayed. It's all about blending careful planning with smart packing to make sure everything you need for your big day is right where it needs to be.
Don’t Ignore Guest Experience
Your guests are making a significant effort to join your celebration. Consider their travel ease, accommodations, and what they can do once they arrive. Organizing group activities, providing welcome bags, and offering a detailed itinerary can greatly enhance their experience.
Don’t Forget to Relax and Enjoy
In the whirlwind of planning and coordinating, don’t forget the reason behind it all - your love and commitment. Take time to enjoy the journey, soak in the unique experiences, and make memories that will last a lifetime.
