9 Tips for the perfect Destination Wedding!
Are you dreaming of a wedding that's not just beautiful but also a little adventurous? If you're looking to break away from the traditional wedding scene, a destination wedding might be just the thing for you! Imagine exchanging your vows with the sun, sand, and sea as your backdrop, surrounded by your closest family and friends. It's the perfect opportunity to escape the mundane and make unforgettable memories with your loved ones. However, planning a destination wedding can be some what tricky. But don't worry, we've got you covered! Here are our top tips for making your destination wedding an absolute blast!
Do your homework!
Research your destination carefully: Before deciding on a destination, make sure to research the location thoroughly. Look for reviews, pictures, and any travel advisories that may affect your trip. Also consider the local weather, seasonal changes, and cultural norms.
Pack wisely!
Don't forget to pack everything you'll need for your wedding, including your dress, shoes, and any necessary accessories. Consider packing your wedding attire in a carry-on bag to avoid the possibility of lost luggage. Many of the couples we have shot in mainland Europe have chose to drive so you can take lots of bits and bobs from home and avoid worrying about luggage limits.
Hire a Wedding Planner!
Planning a destination wedding can be challenging, especially if you're not familiar with the location. Hiring a wedding planner with experience in destination weddings can help you navigate the logistics and any language barriers. It’s also nice to offload the nitty gritty bits to a planner so they can communicate with all your suppliers on your behalf.
Consider the legal requirements!
Depending on your destination, there may be specific legal requirements to get married, such as obtaining a marriage license or fulfilling residency requirements. Make sure to research these requirements well in advance to avoid any surprises.
Plan Activities!
Your guests will be traveling a long way to attend your wedding, so make sure to plan activities and excursions that showcase the destination. Whether it's a guided tour, a beach day, or a local cooking class, your guests will appreciate the chance to experience something unique to the area.
Communication is Key!
Communicate with your guests: Destination weddings can be costly and time-consuming for your guests. Make sure to communicate your plans well in advance, provide travel details, and assist with accommodations. Often it’s worth setting up a mini website or a What’s App group so you know what your guests plans are and who is arriving when.
Food Glorious food!
Destination weddings are the perfect opportunity to indulge in the local cuisine and wine. Be sure to research the local food scene and plan menus that showcase the best of the destination's flavors. Consider including traditional dishes or local specialties to add an extra layer of cultural immersion to your wedding celebration.
Prepare for the unexpected!
With any travel, there's always the possibility of unexpected delays or complications. Make sure to have backup plans in place for everything, from travel arrangements to weather changes. If you're getting married in a hot and humid climate, consider providing fans or umbrellas for your guests. For a beach wedding, be sure to provide sunscreen and shade options to keep everyone comfortable. Be aware of typical temperatures in the area, you could push your wedding back later if the climate is particularly hot. If you are in the mountains, you may want an earlier wedding if sunset is earlier.
Have fun!!!
Lastly, remember to enjoy the experience! A destination wedding can be an incredible way to celebrate your love with family and friends. Make sure to take time to relax, enjoy the destination, and make lasting memories! It’s basically a giant holiday with your fave people as well as getting married, what could be better than that.
So there you have it, folks - our top tips for planning a destination wedding! While it may seem daunting at first, with the right mindset and a little bit of planning, you can create a wedding celebration that's truly unforgettable. Remember to enjoy the journey, take in the sights and sounds of your destination, and most importantly, have fun with your loved ones! Happy wedding planning! If you’ve loved all the moments you’ve seen from this post and are still thinking about booking your photographer then please get in touch we’d love to know more about your special day!