There is something extraordinary and magical about getting married in an exotic destination, against the mountains, an old caste, or by the sea. Gathering your friends and family in a fabulous location for your special day is an attractive proposition.  Destination weddings can oftentimes be less expensive than planning a wedding at home, because destination weddings are more intimate, with fewer guests. Resorts across the world offer all-inclusive wedding packages, where some even provide free weddings if your group meets a certain number of hotel room reservations.  

The timing of your wedding, the weather at the venue, the guest’s availability to travel are all points you have to consider. But with a little patience and research, you can plan a memorable wedding getaway for you and your treasured guests.

There’s also an added benefit of a mini-vacation that can make the whole event feel more relaxed. To help plan your dream destination wedding, we have listed below all the tips you need to know for your special day.

Pick the perfect location

The wedding venue and location will not only predict the mood, but also the budget, and the travel time required to get everyone in one place. Consider going where you first met or where you took your first holiday together. Do you love good food? Tuscany or California are good regions for wine lovers. Or go for someplace tropical like a scenic resort in Mexico, or choose from an array of unique packages available at Rose Hall weddings in Jamaica. Choose a location that best fits your lifestyle and what you love as a couple.

Timing is key

The ideal weather conditions always fall during tourist season. Keep this in mind when planning your wedding, expect more crowds, higher rates, fewer hotel amenities and venue options available. Check online or go with a reputable agent who can help you get the best travel rates and deals. Always make your reservations well in advance. If you are on a fixed budget, opt to book off-season which will mean fewer crowds, but be willing to gamble on the weather.

Let your guests know

After deciding who to invite, let your guests know well in advance about your destination wedding. So it will give them the chance to save for your big day or they may politely decline if their personal finances are strained. Provide your guests with a list of options for flights and accommodations before prices increase.  The bride and groom should be understanding and know that not everyone has the means to travel. So don’t be upset if others decline your invitation.

Travel first

Take at least one trip to plan, and if you have the cash to spare, take a second trip to polish planning the event. On the initial trip, scout venues, reception spaces, hotels for guests and a rehearsal dinner venue. Also check into florists, caterers, wedding photographers and videographers. After consolidating your choices plan your food tastings, sample floral arrangements, hair and makeup sessions at a local salon. Look for and organize activities for your guests after the wedding such as museum visits, snorkeling or other interesting recreational activities available to make the most of the trip.

Fix your budget

Compare and contrast the wedding expenses in your home city and at the planned destination wedding. If you live in a large metropolitan city, it might be cheaper to have a destination wedding even when you compute the airfare, hotel and planning expenses. Include in your budget your welcome bags, additional activities for guests and other travel-related costs. If you plan to pay for a few immediate families and members of the main entourage, calculate all the expenses before committing to anyone.  Reserve a realistic budget that factors in all the extra costs with a bit to spare.

Check into the local marriage requirements

Research well in advance the requirements for applying for a marriage license abroad. In some places, it could be complicated and may demand residency from as little as 24 hours to a week in some countries.  If it is impossible to do this, you may want to have a civil wedding in your home country first before you decide to travel.

Seek local professional help

It is advisable to seek the aid of a local wedding planner who can be your eyes while you are away.  If you trust a wedding planner or vendor from back home, be prepared to pay for all their travel expenses. Many resorts offer wedding packages who can simplify the burden of securing and researching vendors. Sometimes a language barrier can get in the way of dealing with the logistics for tent and lighting rentals.  It is always better to get a reputable local wedding planner who can provide you and your guests a smooth event and offer interesting after wedding activities.

Dress for the destination

Always consider the climate when choosing your wedding attire. Be aware of the fabrics you will use for the event. It is not advisable to wear silk, wool or satin in a hot and humid environment. Keep your guests informed so you can share your big day with them in comfort.

In closing, you will need to be patient, well organized and open-minded about planning a destination wedding. Do your research and set up the necessary appointments in advance. Don’t let the long-distance deter your decisions. It will make the entire process a more stress-free and smoother experience.