Destination weddings can be exciting, romantic, and a great time for guests and brides and grooms alike. But without proper planning, a destination wedding can quickly feel like a stressful disaster. To prevent those stressful moments, simply plan ahead!
Here are five steps to the perfect destination wedding:
Tip No. 1: Find Your Destination
So you know you want to have a destination wedding–but where? With so many options to choose, it’s important to have a clear picture of what you want. It’s also important that your choice of location resonates with who you and your partner are as a unit. This decision is best made together, not separately!
Tip No. 2: Timing is Everything
Typically, wedding season lasts from June through late September. This also happens to coincide with the busiest season of the year for many hotels and beachfront resorts. If you pick a wedding venue during this season, be prepared for limited bookings, high prices, and crowded beachfronts.
Many experts recommend bookings on the cusp of seasons, so you get both the weather and the wedding of your dreams at a price that works for you!
Tip No. 3: Try Before You Buy
While many oceanfront hotels and resorts offer images and virtual tours on their websites, do NOT simply book without visiting the location. Unfortunately, the internet allows oceanfront hotels to mask their shortcomings and can manipulate you into paying for something that you don’t want. Before booking, try to visit the venue at least once to make sure it’s exactly what you want.
Tip No. 4: Know Your Budget
Beach and destination weddings can cost anywhere between $10,000 and $50,000. When done right, they can even be cheaper than a traditional wedding. To ensure the best prices, do your homework. Search for package deals on both flights and hotel accommodations, and try to take care of small details yourself, such as party favors and decorations. The little things could save you the most money.
Tip No. 5: Quit Lollygagging!
As soon as you decide that you want to have a destination wedding, it’s crucial to get the word out almost immediately. Many experts recommend sending a save the date at least six to eight months before the wedding weekend. This way, you will know whether or not your guests can attend and you’ll have a proper head count. This is also crucial for booking the venue and oceanfront hotels and getting the best rates on flights.
So what are you waiting for? Get planning!