How to Plan a Destination Wedding: 5 Things Nobody Tells You
Image by Sun Prairie Films Venue: Cherokee Ranch and Castle
A lot of couples dream of a destination wedding. There's something romantic about going away from your hometown to get married. Sometimes a destination wedding is the only option that makes sense, especially for couples who have families in different areas of the country or world. Planning a destination wedding is a lot more complex than planning one in your hometown, where you have direct access to vendors, venues, and a host of other things necessary for bringing together your wedding day. Here are some things you should know before planning a destination wedding, with or without professional help.
It's Possible to Plan without a Professional But...
Be prepared to do a ton of research about things you don't even know you have to research. We know that seems pretty vague, but so many things depend on where you choose to have your destination wedding. There are many different laws and rules that you must adhere to if you plan to get married outside of the US.
Just because it's all-inclusive doesn't mean things can't go wrong.
Don't fool yourself into thinking you don't need backup plans just because you chose an all-inclusive venue. All of the same things that can go wrong with a traditional venue can go wrong anywhere. Flowers can be delivered late, the chef can run out of appetizers, or the photographer can be in the wrong place at the wrong time.
You Don't have to Use the Onsite Wedding Planner
A lot of destination venues have their own onsite wedding planner. Don't feel obligated to use them, especially if you don't click. Suppose you're planning a Costa Rica destination wedding, for example. You can find a wedding planner stateside who is familiar with the local area to help you plan and execute your big day. pssssst. We specialize in Costa Rica destination weddings.
It's OK to Ask Your Venue for Discounts
Don't be shy about trying to save some money on your wedding. Make sure to ask the venue if they offer any discounts or have any package specials available with lodging in the local area. Sometimes they even offer vouchers for local attractions or tours. Taking advantage of discounts will not only save you money, but it is also a way to add in a little extra fun for guests who might not have visited that particular area before.
Have a Plan to Keep Your Guests Busy
They've come a long way, taken time off work, and may have even dipped into their own vacation fund to share your wedding day with you. The last thing you want them to remember is being stuck at the hotel with nothing to do in the days surrounding the wedding. Research options ahead of time and have a list of things available for them to do. Mix in some things that aren't expensive for those on a tight budget. Maybe there is a local open-air market a few blocks away, or arrange a bonfire on the beach to watch the sunset.
The bottom line is planning a destination wedding is a big job. You can do it on your own but hiring a wedding planner will take the stress out of having to worry about every little detail and wonder what you might have forgotten to take care of. We specialize in destination weddings. Contact us so we can talk about helping you plan your big day.