Planning a destination wedding differs from planning a local one.
There’s more to think about. More details to nail down. More logistics to figure out. That is why a destination wedding checklist is so important.
Before we get into the details, allow me to introduce myself. I’m with Luxury Vacations Consulting.
We’re not a booking site. Nope, not at all.
We’re a travel consulting firm focused on how to build trips that you’ll remember and that will fit your dreams.”
And now, let’s discuss how to use your destination wedding checklist to plan the wedding of your dreams without completely losing your mind.
Why You Need a Destination Wedding Checklist
That was because destination weddings are different. They’re not just about choosing a venue and sending out invitations.
You’re navigating travel, accommodations, legalities and more. If you don’t have a good plan, things can go south quickly.
Here is the hard truth: a checklist for a destination wedding helps you stay organized. It makes sure you don’t miss anything critical. And trust me, when you’re planning a wedding from a distance, if you forget one detail it can throw everything off.
So, are you ready to get started on your ultimate destination wedding checklist? Let’s go.
Step 1 Decide Where You Want to Go
The first major decision you’ll face is where to hold your wedding. Your destination wedding checklist starts here.
Ask Yourself These Questions
- Beach wedding or rustic wedding or more?
- Are you dreaming about a tropical island or a European countryside?
- How far will your guests be travelling?
Popular Wedding Destination Locations
- Beaches: Imagine Maldives, Hawaii, or Thailand. Ideal if you like sand between your toes.
- Mountain Getaways: Regions like Colorado or Switzerland provide jaw-dropping vistas.
- Italy, France, or Spain: For couples that appreciate history or architecture, these are popular destinations.
Pro Tip: As you consider various destinations, create a destination wedding checklist to help you write out the Pros and Cons for each potential location. That will allow you to narrow down the field.
Step 2: Set a Budget
Money matters. A lot. And as far as destination weddings, his or her expenses can start to add up quickly. Read on to learn why a budget is a must-have on your destination wedding checklist.
What to Factor Into Your Budget
- Venue rental
- Travel expenses (flights, transfers, etc.)
- Accommodations for you and your guests
- Food and drinks
- Decor and entertainment
- Legal fees (if applicable)
How to Save Money
- Opt for an offseason for better prices.
- Cut your guest list down to close family and friends.
- Source local vendors instead of bringing them in.
A detailed breakdown of your budget should be part of your destination wedding checklist. Believe me, this will spare you from unplanned expenses down the road!
Step 3: Engage a Local Wedding Planner
It is hard to plan a wedding from far away. This is where a local wedding planner comes into play. Including this step in your destination wedding checklist is a lifesaver!
What a Wedding Planner Does
- Takes care of the permits and other legal matters
- Includes local vendors
- Manages setup and teardown
- Serves as your main contact on the big day
How to Find the Right Planner
- Seek out planners that specialize in destination weddings.
- Check out reviews and request for references.
- Be sure to tell them your vision.
Pro Tip: Be sure to add “interview potential planners” to your destination wedding checklist. This way, you end up with someone you trust.
Step 4: Send Save-the-Dates Early
Destination weddings take more effort to plan than local ones. That’s why early save-the-dates are an important item on your destination wedding checklist.
Why Early Save-the-Dates Matter
- Provides your guests sufficient time to arrange their journey
- Assist you in setting an estimate of how many attendees
- Minimize last-minute cancellations
How to Make Them Stand Out
- Photos of the location are included
- Give travel advice and places to stay
- Emphasize important due dates (for instance, RSVP due date)
Most of your destination wedding checklists will have you sending save-the-dates at least 8-12 months ahead of the wedding.
Step 5: Find Flights and Places to Stay
Air travel and beds are big pieces of the puzzle. So be on the lookout for them on your destination wedding checklist.
Tips for Booking Flights
- You should use flight comparison tools to get the best deals.
- To get cheaper prices, book early.
- See if you can get group rates for your attendees.
Accommodation Bookings Tips
- Book blocks of rooms at a hotel or resort for your guests.
- Provide ample choices (from economy to haute).
- Book transportation to and from the event.
Pro Tip: A destination wedding checklist should have “confirm room blocks” on it. That way, everybody has a place to sleep.
Step 6: Investigate Legal Needs
It can be complicated to get married overseas legally. That’s why checking legal requirements is a must on your destination wedding checklist.
Common Legal Requirements
- Proof of eligibility to marry
- Translating documents (if needed)
- Blood tests or other health screenings
Alternative Option
Many couples choose to have a symbolic ceremony abroad while the legal paperwork is taken care of at home.
Required documents also have deadlines that should go on your destination wedding checklist.
Step 7: Develop the Ceremony and Reception
This is where the fun begins. A major part of your destination wedding checklist is planning the ceremony and reception.
- Ceremony Ideas
- Barefoot beach vows
- Mountain-top exchange
- Historic venue backdrop
- Reception Ideas
- Beachside barbecue
- Elegant sit-down dinner
- Casual cocktail party
- Personal Touches
- Incorporate local traditions
- Make personalized party favors for visitors
- Write heartfelt vows
Pro Tip: Use your destination wedding checklist to keep track of vendor bookings (e.g. photographer, caterer, florist).
Step 8: Plan Group Activities
Similarly, a destination wedding is more than a ceremony. It’s an opportunity for your guests to see a new destination. In addition to a traditional destination wedding checklist, adding group activities improves the experience.
Ideas for Group Activities
- Organized tours to local places of interest
- Classes focused on cooking local dishes
- Adventure excursions (snorkeling, hiking, etc.)
How to Organize
- Work with a local tour operator
- Activity schedules with guests
- Leading Optional Activities to Build in Flexibility
- Your destination wedding checklist should involve timelines for activities booking.
Step 9: Pack Smart
Packing for a destination wedding takes some extra consideration. Tip: Make sure to include this step on your destination wedding checklist.
What to Pack
- Clothes for the wedding (dress, suit, shoes)
- Game: Wardrobe (veils, jewelry, ties)
- Emergency kit (sewing kit, stain remover, painkillers)
Pro Packing Tips
- Send big items like bulky clothing in advance
- Important documents should be kept in your carry-on
- Label luggage clearly
A destination wedding checklist should help you remember to pack essentials and double-check restrictions.
Step 10: Be Ready For Anything
No matter how you plan, there will be surprises Including preparation for the unexpected on your destination wedding checklist is a good idea.
Contingency Plans
- Alternate location in case of inclement weather
- Vendor emergency contacts
- Travel insurance can provide you peace of mind
Stay Calm
Remember, flexibility is key. Your wedding will still be gorgeous, even if things don’t go exactly as planned.
Make sure that your destination wedding checklist covers a section of backups.
We Can Help You Out!
At Luxury Vacations Consulting, we turn dreams into reality!
A destination wedding is also an adventure. It’s an opportunity to toast your romance in a location that moves you. A full-fledged destination wedding checklist will help you turn your dream to reality without the added stress. We Can Help you to:
- Create a custom trip planner
- And arrange travel and accommodations
- Offer advice and suggestions not on mainstream articles
- Take care of each and every detail
That we think travel unlocks doors and makes memories. Say “I do” to adventure. Say “I do” to love. Leap for “I do” at the destination wedding of your dreams.
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