Destination weddings can be a memorable dream come true however, they can come with their own unique challenges. At LDW, we want your wedding to go as smoothly as possible and for every detail to be planned and executed to the T, so that you have minimal stress in every process of booking and managing your wedding. So here are our 10 tips curated to help you plan a successful and stunning destination wedding:
1. Selecting the Right Location
It is a given that you need to choose the perfect destination that resonates with you as a couple and the type of wedding you desire. For you the process is made all that easier when booking with LDW – We take the stressful processes out of your hands so you can fully enjoy the lead up to your special day.
2. Visit the Venue in Advance
We understand that visiting your destination is not always as easy as it’s made out to be. If you are able to, we do recommend taking a quick trip to see the venue. This allows you to see the venue for yourself prior to your special day, finalize any last-minute details, see local attractions and plan activities for your guests. It just allows you to have some peace of mind that the venue is everything you imagined and if not, clarify any amendments that can be made to ensure your happy with every fine detail.
3. Give Guests Plenty of Notice
Even if your wedding is more intimate, we always advise that save-the-dates are sent out as early as possible with normally at least 12 months notice. This allows guests to plan and budget for travel, accommodations, and time off work.
4. Consider the Weather
Most couples already know the weather they would prefer for their wedding, whether that be hot or cold. However, we do advise that prior to enquiring you check the local weather in accordance with when you want to get married. This is due to the countries specific weather conditions, take Spain for example, in summer temperatures can reach up to 35 degrees, but in January on average it dips to around 8-15 degrees. Additionally, certain locations can have more temperamental weather conditions such as hurricanes or rainstorms for example, places like the USA or Caribbean – but again, each location has adjustments that can be made if these conditions occur etc.
However, at LDW once you provide your month and country for your special day, we can advise you of the average weather for that time period so you can do some thinking about if you are still happy with your chosen location.
5. Plan for Extra Expenses
It is best to budget for destination-specific costs, such as travel for vendors, shipping decor, or additional accommodation for yourselves or your immediate family. Being that you won’t be in the comfort of your own home or city, destination weddings often incur extra fees for things like permits, international shipping, or guest travel packages. So having these pre-budgeted saves the stress of then trying to juggle costs closer to the time.
6. Specific guest requirements.
When looking into specific vendors such as catering or drinks it is best look at specific dietary requirements or ask guests if they have any in order to make the process simpler when booking.
7. Keep It Simple
Less is often more when it comes to destination weddings. Since the setting itself is likely already picturesque, focus on a few key decor elements that enhance the beauty of that area. Lighter luggage will also make travel logistics easier.
8. Factor in Local Culture and Customs
All countries have their own culture and so it is best to make yourself aware of any restrictions or traditions that may interfere with your wedding, however again at LDW we will inform you of any specific requirements that you might need to adhere to when booking your wedding. Furthermore, some countries may be more conservative and so being aware of cultural requirements can ensure that no one feels disrespected.
9. Choose Guest-Friendly Accommodations
Even if you are not providing accommodation for your guests, it is best to select a few options that are local to your venue that can accommodate to all different guests. For example, group discounts or room blocks can help your guests save, and offering shuttle service from the hotel to the wedding venue will make logistics easier for them.
10. Enjoy the Experience
Destination weddings often provide opportunities for unique experiences and quality time with guests. Consider planning group activities like a welcome dinner, a post-wedding brunch, or local excursions to make the experience more memorable for everyone.
We hope that by keeping these tips in mind, you’ll be better prepared to organize a beautiful and stress-free destination wedding!