Planning a destination wedding is the perfect blend of romance and adventure, offering you and your loved ones an unforgettable experience in a stunning location. But while the idea of saying 'I do' in a breathtaking destination is dreamy, the reality of organizing it can feel overwhelming. That’s where we come in—we’ve asked the experts all the right questions to bring you the ultimate guide to planning your dream destination wedding. From finding the perfect venue to tackling travel logistics, we’ve gathered their insider tips to help make the process as stress-free as possible.
Marianna Idirin, Georgia Louise Weddings
Choose a Destination that Holds Personal Meaning
"Pick a destination with personal meaning to you and share that story with your guests through your save the dates, invitations, or wedding website. Let them know why this location is so special, making their journey all the more memorable."
Hire a Local Team for Authentic Touches
“There are so many amazing wedding planners out there, but the easiest way to narrow down your options is by choosing someone local to the country – or even continent – where you're getting married. Local expertise is invaluable, as cultural nuances can vary quite a lot! For example, we're based in Spain, and the wedding culture here is quite different from that of the U.S. Things move slower, and the industry here still operates on personal connections and trust. The more reputable your planner is locally, the better deals they can score for you. Something to keep in mind is that some of the best local vendors may not speak English, but your wedding team ultimately needs to be aligned with your vision. If they have experience with destination weddings, they'll know how to bring your dream wedding to life—no matter where it is.”
Navigate Airports and Travel Logistics
“Before finalizing the location, think about important logistical factors, such as the distance to the nearest airport. Are there direct flights from most major cities, or will the flight require two or three connections? Multiple connecting flights and excessive flight costs may deter your guests from attending. Climate is also a very important factor to consider. Be mindful of hurricane season or overly rainy months, as you will need to be flexible, prepared, and comfortable with Plan B or the rain plan.”
Secure All the Details Early
“Complete your headcount and finalize the guest list at least 2–3 weeks before the wedding day. This allows ample time for printing and organizing. Settle vendor payments early to reduce stress and ensure a smooth lead-up to your big day.”
Facilitate Communication Between Planners and Guests
“Make sure your planning team can communicate clearly with your guests about travel, accommodations, and any additional details well in advance to ensure they are prepared and can make the most of their time at the celebration.”
Research Your Destination’s Wedding Industry
“If not engaging a professional wedding planner for the process – we highly recommend researching the intricacies of the wedding industry of the country you’re looking to get married in. Every country operates differently and if you’re going solo this is a valuable step not to skip to ensure you’re getting the best value on your day and go into it stress free.”
Take a Moment to Discover the Destination Together
“Arrive a few days early to fully embrace the destination without wedding obligations. Spend this time enjoying the scenery, exploring local landmarks, or simply relaxing together. Take advantage of this downtime to schedule a relaxed pre-wedding couple photo and video shoot. Not only will it help you feel more comfortable in front of the camera, but it’s also an excellent opportunity to bond with your photographer and videographer, ensuring a smoother experience on the wedding day. These moments allow you to stay grounded, strengthen your connection as a couple, and create beautiful memories of the calm before the celebration begins.”
Embrace Local Charm
“The culture and scenery of your wedding destination should play a central role in shaping your design choices and overall experience, creating a seamless connection to the location of your celebration. A well-chosen venue that embraces the essence of the destination adds depth and authenticity to your wedding, making it memorable and enriching for you and your guests. The local culture can inspire everything from color palettes and decor details to culinary choices. Similarly, traditional elements such as music, attire, or cuisine can honor the cultural heritage of your location. By embracing these influences, you not only highlight the beauty of your destination but also create a cohesive, immersive experience that feels rooted in the place where your love story unfolds.”
Marianna Idirin, Italian Weddings & Events
Provide Diverse Accommodation Options for Every Budget
“Securing hotel room blocks is essential for a destination wedding. If you are not doing a full property buy-out, you'll want to make sure there are enough nearby room accommodations for your guests. It's nice to offer multiple hotel options at different price points so your guests are comfortable with the expense.”
Consider a Concierge Service to Handle the Details
“Consider including a destination concierge service to assist guests with personal requests during their stay so you aren't burdened by them. From arranging last minute makeup bookings to childcare or emergencies, this small detail can elevate the experience and ease stress for both you and your guests.”
Callista & Co, A Charming Fête
Create a Wedding Website
"Not everyone will use it, and some people will still ask you for information you've painstakingly included, but it’s incredibly helpful to have all the details and event timings in one place for guests to refer back to. This is especially true for multi-day celebrations, where travel fatigue can leave everyone a little scattered."
Be Thoughtful with Your Pre-Wedding Prep
“Avoid consuming unusual types of food, excessive drinking, or undergoing intensive beauty treatments close to your wedding week or day. Arrive at your wedding destination well in advance to recover from jet lag and acclimate to the environment.”
Prioritize the Guest Experience
“While your wedding day is ultimately about celebrating your love, don’t forget to consider the experience of your guests. A destination wedding involves travel and time commitment, so ensuring their comfort and enjoyment is essential. We focus on creating a seamless and memorable experience for everyone involved, making thoughtful decisions with your guests’ needs in mind.”
Ensure a Plan B for Every Forecast
"Destination weddings often come with unpredictable weather, so be prepared. Arrange for shaded areas or fans if it’s hot, or cozy blankets for cooler or rainy weather. Always discuss backup plans with your planner to ensure transitions are smooth, no matter the forecast!"
