10 Essential Tips for Planning Your Dream Destination Wedding

Palm trees and sunshine…fireplaces and snow…mansions and falling leaves…the options are endless for a dream destination wedding. We know! We plan them!

We love destination weddings because they offer unique experience that blend both a wedding and a vacation for both you and your guests. As a destination wedding company, we specialize in travel and weddings so as you begin to plan your ideal destination wedding, we encourage you to keep in mind these 10 tips we find essential when working with destination clients.

1. Select a meaningful destination.

Is a vineyard ceremony followed by a tasting room reception of interest? Or, a toes in the sand celebration with a yacht reception? Or maybe a historic castle rich with culture? Consider what type of location and venue suites your style and interests.  Explore what activities there are for guests, how easy or difficult it would be to get to, and what costs may look like for both you and your guests. A priority list can help you narrow such options down.

2. Research times and weather.

Sunrise and sunset times can vary widely during different points in the year and in different locations which can affect ceremony and reception times as well as photography. We always recommend to look up these times for your location prior to booking (especially if you want sunset vows!). Additionally, research what the average temperature is around your wedding date, if there is generally rain or snow or if it falls within hurricane, monsoon, or other specific weather seasons. Sometimes, destinations can be less expensive during low-season, but weather may play a factor (if that’s important to you).

3. Create a detailed budget.

Planning a destination wedding can involve more costs than a local wedding.  Create a spreadsheet with such things as: airfare, hotel, luggage fees, shipping of decor or wedding items, transportation once at the destination, food and beverage costs, and customs fees as well as noting the exchange rates (when applicable).

4. Manage your guest list carefully.

Not everyone can attend a destination wedding, but many times those who do appreciate at least 8-12 months notice with details about accommodations, transportation, events, requested attire and available activities.  Often, keeping a guest list intimate makes planning easier, but whether your guest list is large or small, we can help you manage it.

5. Know the legal requirements.

What documentation is needed to get married at your destination?  Is there a waiting period between obtaining a marriage license and the wedding itself?  What are the costs associated?  It’s important to research these things early in the planning process and refer to a destination wedding planner (like ourselves) or a local one for more information.

6. Use the destination as your conceptual theme.

The natural beauty of your destination paired with history, culture and activities can elevate your thematic concept, create a memorable wedding, and even reduce costs.  Make the view the ceremony backdrop, plan a menu infused with local cuisine, and offer a cultural activity for guests to enjoy.

7. Have a back-up plan.

Flights can be delayed. Luggage can get lost.  An outdoor event can get rained out.  Although we don’t like to anticipate these things, they can sometimes happen in which having a plan B (often created with your destination wedding planner) can put your mind at ease when things don’t go exactly according to plan. We are experts at this!

8. Consider both local and destination vendors.

Depending on your desires and budget, you may prefer to use wedding vendors local to your destination who may know your venue and have experience working there or you may choose to fly in vendors based on your preferences that will likely need a walk through upon arrival as well as travel costs covered.  Evaluate which is best for your style and budget before deciding.

9. Hire a local or destination wedding planner.

Some destination venues have their own in-house wedding planner while others encourage either local references or a specialized destination planner you find on your own.  Michele Butler Events has planned and coordinated a plethora of destination weddings all over the world and we are here to help you with yours!

10. Plan downtime.

A destination wedding can be filled with excitement and go-go-go activities and events.  But be careful not to wear yourselves out!  Plan relaxation time the day before or the day-of your wedding with spa appointments, spend a quiet meal together talking, or go to bed early and unwind from the day’s activities.

Are you ready to plan your dream destination wedding?  Then let’s get started!  

Whether you are interested in a destination wedding in Central Florida and the Orlando area or somewhere else in the world, we’re ready to plan with you!   Please contact us at michele@michelebutlerevents.com or call or text (407) 765-4001 to begin!