Recently we looked at how to have an inexpensive wedding in response to recent reports that the average wedding will cost nearly $36,000. One of the options we didn’t cover was a destination wedding. That’s right. Ditching the local reception hall for a holiday wedding somewhere more exotic.

A destination wedding is when you travel to special location for your wedding. It’s a little different to an elopement because a destination wedding has your family and friends along for the adventure. It could be on a beach in the tropics, a lavish event in a metropolitan resort, or a simple ceremony at the home of a geographically distant friend or relative.

Some things you need to consider when you organise a destination wedding are:

Choosing The Location Of Your Destination Wedding

This part of the process is really only limited to your imagination but the reality of your budget might play a big part of your selection. It’s also worth considering your guests. If you’d like as many people as possible then it’s worth selecting somewhere that’s reasonably easy to get to.

Choosing The Time Of Year For Your Destination Wedding

The time of year have a few implications that you might want to consider such as the price differences between high and low seasons. The season might also dictate what you can wear so keep your bridal fashion in mind when you’re looking at the average temperature.

Learn About Local Wedding Legalities and Paperwork

There are lots of speciality companies that will help you organise the business end of your destination wedding. These can be a great investment especially if you are heading to somewhere more exotic because you will need to ensure you have all the legalities and paperwork in order.

Let Your Guests Know As Early As Possible

Asking people to travel overseas is a huge request so it’s a good idea to give people as much notice as possible. If you actually want them to join you I mean! This will give your guests time to check out the cheapest time to book and save some spending money.

Local Accommodation Options For Your Guests

One of the lovely aspects of a destination wedding is the time you get to share with your guests. To save your guests the hassle of lots of research, start compiling nearby accommodation options and prices. Enquire about group hotel bookings and don’t be afraid to ask for a discount!

Research Destination Activities and Attractions

You are going to be pretty busy in the lead up to your wedding and your guests are going to be starting their holidays so it’s a really nice idea to send through some information about local activities and attractions. Don’t over plan though – it’s their holiday too!

Strike A Balance (And Keep a Cool Head)

It’s important to remember that you won’t please everyone but you’re also allowed to be a little selfish as the bride and groom. If people are getting upset that you are planning a destination wedding, consider having a party at home so everyone can be part of your wedding occasion.

So there you have are our tips to organising a destination wedding. It’s not impossible and it could just be the best decision you ever made! 

Are you planning a destination wedding or perhaps you had a destination wedding? Let us know your challenges and your best tips in the comments below.

From The Newcastle BrideTeam