Destination Wedding Planning

Destination wedding planning can be the most simple + special way to plan and celebrate your wedding.

Many people have a hard time because in most cases you haven't been to the location that you're planning the wedding. This can be scary because it's hard to trust what they say about the food, grounds, and service.

I think it's really important to talk with a travel specialist who's been to the location or have had positive feedback from brides and grooms they have sent there - not someone who's read about it!

Step 1: Set The Budget

It's not just your budget to consider!

When thinking about your wedding abroad a, it is important to remember that you should be including the cost of your honeymoon. If you can afford a $5,000 wedding + $5000 honeymoon, then your destination wedding budget is $10,000.

Step 2: Pick The Right Location

What is your priority?

What's most important to you - location or cost? Do you want somewhere romantic like Florence? Or, somewhere exotic like the Maldives? Is it a wedding for just you and your partner or do you need to consider a place your guests can afford? Is travel time an issue?

Do You Want Your Wedding At An All Inclusive Resort or Private Villa

Weddings at a private villa or all-inclusive resort can be beautiful. This is generally based on the personality of you and your partner. All inclusive resorts can be simpler, but, some villa rental companies offer wedding coordinators.

If affordability is important and you are from North America, The Caribbean, Mexico, and Hawaii (if you're on the west coast) offer some great options If you are from Europe, then interesting options would include Florence, Seychelles, and Slovenia.

Step 3: Decide Who To Invite and How - Etiquette and Rules

Who Should You Invite

You can invite as many people as you want, as it is always polite, however, it is not likely that more than 20% of those invited will attend. More wedding etiquette advice here.

Travel and Lodging Info

You are not expected/required to pay for travel or lodging. It would be a good idea to talk to those you would like to invite in order to get a good idea on numbers. This will allow you to look into jet charters and room costs for a certain number of guests.

What Should Be Included in the Invites

It is a good idea to include travel costs and lodging costs in the invitation as this will make it possible for people make their decision. Maps and information and activities in the area all also appreciated. A wedding website becomes useful in these cases. More invitation etiquette here.

Who Pays For What

As mentioned above, you do not need to pay for travel or lodging. However, you are required to pay for food on the evening of the wedding. Breakfast the morning after would also be nice. More wedding etiquette advice here.

Gifts For the Bride and Groom

When planning a destination wedding, it is not common for guests to provide the bride and groom with a gift. It is important to let people know this. The easiest way to spread this information is through family and friends, or your personal wedding website.

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