All photos: Jonathan Borba
- 1. Choose your perfect destination
- 1. Choose your perfect destination
The first and most exciting step is choosing where to say “I do.” Whether it’s a tropical beach, a charming European town, or a Spanish island, your location will set the tone for your wedding.
When choosing a destination, consider your guests’ travel arrangements, the legal requirements for getting married abroad, and, of course, the weather in your chosen season. Do your research and make sure the destination matches your wedding vision.
- 2. Set a realistic budget
- 2. Set a realistic budget
Please note that depending on your location, you may also need to consider exchange rates and local taxes. Once you’ve decided on a budget, stick to it as much as possible to avoid financial surprises in the future.
- 3. Choose the right time of year
- 3. Choose the right time of year
The season you choose will have a huge impact on your wedding experience, not just the weather, but also the cost and availability of venues and vendors. For example, hosting a wedding in the Caribbean during hurricane season can lead to unexpected changes in plans.
Try to choose a time when the weather is best. Also, consider peak tourist seasons. This may affect the cost of your stay for you and your guests.
- 4. Hire a local wedding planner
- 4. Hire a local wedding planner
They are familiar with the ins and outs of the area, have connections with local vendors, and can handle all the logistical details that are difficult to manage from a distance. A wedding planner can also help ease communication barriers you might encounter if you’re getting married in a country where you don’t speak the language.
- 5. Send save date early
- 5. Send save date early
Destination weddings require guests to plan their vacation and book travel, so it’s important to give your guests plenty of notice. Make sure to submit your save date at least 6-8 months in advance.
This will give your guests enough time to make arrangements and also give you a rough estimate of how many people will be attending your big day.
- 6. Investigation of legal requirements
- 6. Investigation of legal requirements
This is probably one of the most important rules to follow before setting out on a trip. Each country has its own rules when it comes to weddings and marriages. The more exotic the destination, the more exotic this set of rules can be. Depending on your location, you may need to be in the country for a certain number of days before the ceremony, or you may need documents such as a translated birth certificate or proof of residence.
Be sure to complete all tasks in advance, as timely research and preparation of the necessary documents are essential to avoid unexpected delays.
- 7. Plan your visit (if possible)
- 7. Plan your visit (if possible)
If possible (budget and time wise), try to visit the destination wedding before the actual ceremony. Bring your partner, wedding planner, or anyone else you’d like to share feedback with. This allows you to see the venue firsthand, meet local vendors, and get a feel for the atmosphere.
Even if you can’t visit, take a virtual tour or get as much information as possible to make sure the place is everything you’ve dreamed of.
Keep in mind that a destination wedding requires a lot of effort and expense from your guests. Consider your budget when choosing your location and accommodation options. Providing several choices at different price points will make it easier for guests to participate.
You can also provide information about local attractions and organize group activities for guests who have come from far away to celebrate together.
Destination weddings are often multi-day celebrations, so why not use the location to plan additional activities?
- 10. Don’t forget your honeymoon
The main perk of having your wedding away from home is that you’re already in a beautiful location perfect for your honeymoon. Basically, a destination wedding is the same as a destination honeymoon.
After the festivities, you can switch gears and start your honeymoon right away. If you wish, you can also move to another part of the region to explore further during the first few days of your newlywed life.
lastly…
Follow this 10-step guide and you’ll be ready to host a magical wedding that you and your guests will cherish for years to come.
