How to plan a Destination Wedding

Your Ultimate Guide to Planning the Wedding of Your Dreams (Without the Stress)

Planning a destination wedding is like piecing together a puzzle, only this puzzle comes with a breathtaking backdrop, and the result is the best day of your life. But before you start daydreaming about white sandy beaches or ancient castles, the logistics can feel overwhelming, right? I get it. So, I’m here to help you break down the process, step by step, so you can enjoy the ride without stressing out or losing your passport (a definite buzzkill). Let’s dive into the magical yet manageable world of destination wedding planning!

Step 1: Pick Your Dream Destination

Before you start ordering save-the-dates or practicing your “I do,” you need to decide where all this magic is going down. The location sets the tone for everything else—from the guest list to your dress. Whether you’re dreaming of a tropical paradise, a mountaintop getaway, or a charming European village, this is where the fun begins! Questions to ask yourself:

What vibe are you going for? Beachy, rustic, or cosmopolitan chic?
How far are you willing to travel? (Jet lag + wedding nerves might not be the vibe.)
What’s the weather like at the time of your wedding? You don’t want a surprise hurricane to crash your big day!

Pro Tip: Before you book flights to your dream spot, check out the local marriage laws. Some countries require a waiting period or extra paperwork. While an exotic location might sound perfect, no one wants to be caught off guard by legal hoops!

Step 2: Set Your Budget (and Stick to It!)

I know what you’re thinking: destination weddings sound expensive. But here’s a secret: they don’t have to be! In fact, they can sometimes be more affordable than traditional weddings. Fewer guests usually mean less stress on the wallet. But setting a realistic budget from the get-go is key. Costs to consider:

Travel and accommodation: Flights, hotels, and transport for you and (possibly) your closest family.
Venue: Many destination venues offer all-inclusive packages that can simplify things—and save you money.
Local vendors: Caterers, photographers, florists—check if local pros are cheaper than flying your own team out.
Legal fees and paperwork: Marriage certificates aren’t always free!

Pro Tip: All-inclusive wedding packages can be your budget’s best friend. Many resorts will throw in perks like a complimentary welcome cocktail party, décor, and catering—leaving you more time to sip cocktails by the pool.

Step 3: Narrow Down the Guest List

Here’s where it gets real. A destination wedding is often more intimate, which means you’ll need to trim that guest list. Think of it as a VIP-only event—your nearest and dearest. (Aunt Martha who you haven’t spoken to in 10 years will understand, right?) Who makes the cut?

Close family and friends who you couldn’t imagine not being there.
Guests who can realistically afford the time and cost to travel.
Don’t be afraid to opt for an adult-only wedding if that fits your vibe.

Pro Tip: When you send out invitations, include detailed travel and accommodation options for guests to make it easier for them. After all, they’re taking a trip for your big day!

Step 4: Hire the Best Destination Wedding You Can Afford

Unless you have superpowers (and if you do, please share!), planning a wedding in a different country can be a challenge. A Professional destination wedding specialist can save you time, stress, money, and huge headaches by knowing all the best local vendors, laws, and shortcuts. Here’s what we can help you with:

Navigating the local wedding rules and requirements.
Setting up your room block and manage your logistics and the one of your guests.
Coordinating with local vendors and authorities to make sure everything runs smoothly.

Pro Tip: Your destination wedding specialist can suggest the best and most reputable resorts, villas, and venues based on your needs, desires and budget. She is the best ally while planning your wedding abroad and… you’ll look way cooler sipping mojitos by the pool while she do the heavy lifting.

Step 5: Take Care of the Legal Stuff Early

Every country has different marriage laws. In some places, all you need is your passport and a smile. In others, you’ll need documents, translations, witnesses, and sometimes even a residency period. Key documents to check for:

Passports (check expiration dates!).
Birth certificates.
Divorce or death certificates (if either of you were previously married).
Any translated or notarized documents required by your destination.

Pro Tip: Start researching the legal requirements of your destination as soon as you pick a location. The last thing you want is to land in paradise only to find out you missed a crucial piece of paperwork. Not a fan of paperwork? Here is my best advice: take care of the legality with a secret and inexpensive trip to your local County Clerk and have a symbolic ceremony and wedding celebration where you want around the world with no headache, extra expenses, or restrictions. No one will know (unless you tell them)or really care where you signed the paper. Family and friends want to hear you exchange vows and celebrate your union.

Step 6: Plan for the Weather

Whether you’re dreaming of a tropical beach or a mountainside escape, weather is going to play a big role in your destination wedding. The last thing you want is your perfectly planned outdoor ceremony to get washed away by an unexpected rainstorm. Things to consider:

Check historical weather patterns for your destination.
Always have a backup plan (indoor options, tents, etc.).
Pack accordingly, especially for humidity or colder climates.

Pro Tip: Let your guests know what kind of weather to expect. If it’s going to be a sunny beach day, remind them to bring sunscreen and shades. If it’s a winter wonderland, maybe gift them a cute personalized blanket. Thoughtful and practical!

Step 7: Organize the Travel Details

Now that the wedding itself is in the works, it’s time to get your travel plans sorted. This includes flights, accommodation, and how you’re going to get everyone (and everything) from Point A to Point B without causing a meltdown. Organizing group travel for your guests is a great way to simplify things. Things to consider:

Offer group travel or accommodation deals for your guests.
Make sure to arrange transport to and from the venue for everyone.
Don’t forget travel insurance!

Pro Tip: Create a wedding website where guests can find all the travel details in one place. Include things like accommodation options, suggested flight routes, and even fun local activities they can enjoy while they’re there. It’s a win-win! Got your head spinning thinking you have to manage all your guests? Do not worry!! Your destination wedding specialist will be at your side to take care of that .

Step 8: Pack Smart (And Don’t Forget Your Dress!)

Last but not least—packing! You’re not just packing for a vacation, you’re packing for the most important day of your life. (No pressure!) Your wedding dress, shoes, and other essentials need special care, so plan ahead. Packing tips:

Pack your dress in a garment bag and consider carrying it on the plane. It’s way too precious to trust baggage handlers.
Bring backups of essentials (yes, even underwear—you never know).
Pack weather-appropriate outfits for the entire stay.

Pro Tip: Ask your airline in advance if they have space to hang your dress in the cabin. Most will accommodate, especially if you flash a big smile and drop the “it’s for my wedding” line. Most bridal shop know the best way to pack your wedding gown for traveling. Make sure you tell them you will need to fly with your dress and resist the temptation to unpack the dress as soon as you walk out of the atelier/shop.

Conclusion: Let the Fun Begin!

Planning a destination wedding might sound like an Olympic feat, but with a little patience these handy tips, and your amazing destination wedding specialist you’ll soon be standing at the altar (or beach, or vineyard, or cliffside—wherever your heart takes you) saying “I do” in the most magical place on Earth. Remember, this is your day, and the journey to the altar should be just as fun as the destination itself. So take a deep breath, relax, and embrace the adventure. Oh, and don’t forget to pack the passports! Cheers to love, laughter, and one heck of a destination wedding!

Need help planning your destination wedding? Get in touch with me today. Discover why my brides call me the Mary Poppins of Weddings and start your stress-free journey to the aisle! Love Veronica Crafting Wedding Magic with a Spoonful of Style!