Hello Gorgeous!

Destination weddings are becoming more and more popular.  They are appealing for may reasons including their ability to be less stressful.  However, planning the event from a distance can quickly turn into a nightmare if you start forgetting things. So, here are 9 keys to keep in mind when planning your destination wedding.

1- The Dress:

More than the look of the dress needs to fit your wedding. If your setting is 100 degrees. You do not want to be in a satin mermaid gown.

Just the same, if you are getting married in a castle setting in England in the winter… you may want to pick a heavier gown, maybe with sleeves so you can take pictures outside without having to wear a coat.  If your perfect gown is sleeveless or sheer then find an awesome coat to wear outside.

2- Hair:

Finding a stylists from afar can be daunting so rely heavily on reviews and referrals.

If you are doing your own hair then be sure to think about how your hair responds to different climates (ie humidity) and prepare for that well in advance.

3- Travel:

Cheap plane tickets are not the place to try to save money. Your plane rides are the bookends of your trip- don’t make them awful.

Make travel plans idiot proof for your guests as well. Make sure everyone knows the right airport and how to get to and from all of the relevant locations at your destination.

4- Tourists

Remember that the best weather in popular destinations also coincides with a heavy flow of tourists which might throw a wrench in your plans and usually drives up prices.

5- Marriage Legality

Marriage laws can be drastically different in different countries and states. You will need to check into requirements for a marriage license in your destination i.e. blood tests or minimum age.

Also take into account that marriages may not be recognized between countries and you may need to actually be married before you leave or get married again once you arrive back in your home country.

6- Warn Family and Friends

Give your loved ones plenty of time to arrange their lives and finances.

Make it clear ahead of time, that you are having a destination affair, to anyone you are asking to be in your bridal party before you ask them. This way they can politely decline if they are unable to make the trip.

7- People will Complain

Whether they are going and don’t want to travel or aren’t going and wish they could; people are going to complain that you are having a destination wedding. To quote every pop and rap singer in the last 5 years “haters gonna hate” just ignore them. This is your wedding.

8- “No” RSVPs

Travel and accommodations can be costly so you will get a lot of people who cannot attend. Some will probably disappoint you or be unexpected but you need to be ready for that if you are traveling for your wedding.

9- Visit Your Destination or Make Peace with Surprises

Pictures and descriptions are great but have been posted by people in marketing. If your pictures are all you care about or you aren’t that worried about how things look then this may not be a huge deal. But, I HIGHLY recommend visiting your destination and seeing your venue before your wedding so you can plan accordingly and not be surprised on your wedding day.

Have you had a destination wedding or are you planning one now? Share any tips of your own below.

Until next time,

Becca