Destination Wedding Dos and Don'ts Every Couple Should Know
Destination weddings are a fantastic expression of joy and love, and it is no surprise that they grow in popularity every year. A destination wedding is a unique celebration of the personal bond between two people and offers the chance to tie the knot in an outstanding setting surrounded by the people who are most important to you.
However, a destination wedding is a huge undertaking and planning one comes with a very different set of considerations and challenges. Whether you are planning a wedding cruise sailing from Florida or an exotic beach ceremony in the Caribbean, there are plenty of additional things to think about when planning a wedding away from home. If you are in the process of organizing your own big day and want to make it one to remember, here are a few dos and don’ts that every couple should know about when planning a destination wedding.
Dos:
Research Your Destination Thoroughly
Choosing a location is the most important part of a destination wedding, so it is vital that you know everything you need to know about the place you will be getting married. You’ll need to understand the local marriage laws, have a good idea about what weather to expect, and know what the local customs and traditions are, in order to ensure your big day goes off without a hitch.
Hire a Local Wedding Planner
Some couples like to plan their own weddings, but a wedding planner is always a good idea for a destination wedding. They will come with invaluable knowledge of the area, local vendors, and rules and regulations, and can make the entire process far simpler.
Image: An Egyptian Tale of Love Wedding Lebanon
Notify Guests Well in Advance
A destination wedding is a big commitment for your guests, so give them as much notice as possible so they can plan their trip and save up! Any help or advice you can give them on transport, accommodation, and other things to see and do in the area will also be greatly appreciated.
Embrace Local Flavors and Traditions
Part of the joy of a destination wedding is the opportunity to incorporate local traditions and cultural inspiration into your ceremony. From music and customs to decor and color schemes, embracing the local culture is an immersive and memorable way to make your day even more special.
Image: The First Indian Destination Wedding at Royal M Resorts Al Aqah
Don'ts:
Don’t Overlook Legal Requirements
Laws vary from country to country and from state to state, so don’t forget to explore and fulfil all the legal requirements for marriage wherever you have chosen to get married.
Don’t Forget to Consider Guests' Needs
A destination wedding can be a big ask for your guests to it is always a good idea to keep their comfort in mind. It is worth recommending a range of accommodations to allow friends to choose between budgets and amenities, as well as recommending or providing transportation options.
Don’t Ignore Weather and Seasonal Factors
You don’t want to make your guests or the wedding party pack more luggage than they need, so think carefully about the weather and other climate variables when planning your destination wedding. If inclement or unusual weather is likely, do give everyone plenty of warning!
Image: Vintage Destination Wedding in Cyprus
Final Tips
One of the most important parts of a wedding is the budget, and a destination wedding can eat into your savings far more quickly than traditional ceremonies. Don’t forget about currency exchange rates, taxes, and any other unexpected expenses.
Detailed itineraries with schedule, local recommendations, and contact information are a vital part of any destination wedding.
And of course, don’t forget to embrace the moment and enjoy yourselves!
Need some help packing? Check out our online honeymoon packing checklist!
