Congratulations, you're getting married! And not just any wedding – you're planning a destination wedding. You've decided to throw caution to the wind and take your wedding on the road. You're going to say your "I do's" on a tropical beach, or maybe in a quaint European village. But before you pack your bags and jet off into the sunset, there are a few things you should know about planning a destination wedding.
Step 1: Choose your destination
The first step in planning a destination wedding is, of course, choosing your destination. Do you want to get married on a beach in the Caribbean, or in a vineyard in Italy? The possibilities are endless! But before you start dreaming too big, it's important to consider a few practicalities. How easy is it to get to your chosen destination? Will your guests be able to afford the trip? And most importantly, is it legal to get married there?
Step 2: Consider your guest list
One of the biggest challenges of planning a destination wedding is figuring out who to invite. You don't want to leave anyone out, but at the same time, you don't want to invite everyone and their dog. Keep in mind that not everyone will be able to afford the trip, so be prepared for some declines. And if you're inviting elderly relatives or young children, make sure to choose a destination that is easily accessible and family-friendly.
Step 3: Research local vendors
Unless you're planning to bring your own flowers, cake, and photographer with you (I wholeheartedly recommend this by the way!!), you'll need to find local vendors at your chosen destination. This can be a bit tricky, especially if you're not familiar with the local language or customs. Make sure to do your research ahead of time and read plenty of reviews. And don't be afraid to ask for recommendations from your wedding planner or hotel staff.
Step 4: Hire a wedding planner
Speaking of wedding planners, you're definitely going to want to hire one for your destination wedding. Planning a wedding from afar can be stressful, and a local wedding planner can help take some of the burden off your shoulders. They can help you navigate the local customs, find vendors, and handle all the logistics on the day of the wedding.
Step 5: Plan some pre-wedding activities
One of the best things about a destination wedding is the opportunity to spend quality time with your guests. Plan some fun pre-wedding activities, like a beach day or a wine tasting tour, to help everyone get to know each other. And don't forget to leave some free time for your guests to explore the local area on their own.
Step 6: Be prepared for the unexpected
No matter how much you plan ahead, there are bound to be some unexpected hiccups along the way. Maybe the weather doesn't cooperate, or the flowers don't arrive on time. Whatever happens, try to roll with the punches and keep a sense of humor about it all. After all, this is supposed to be a fun and memorable experience!
Step 7: Don't forget the legal stuff
Last but not least, it's important to remember that getting married in a foreign country comes with some legal requirements. Make sure to do your research ahead of time and find out what documents you'll need to bring with you. And if you're having a symbolic ceremony (i.e. not legally binding), make sure your guests know ahead of time so they're not confused.
In conclusion, planning a destination wedding can be a bit daunting, but with a little bit of planning and a lot of flexibility, it can also be an unforgettable experience. Just remember to do your homework, and don't forget the sunscreen!