Planning a destination wedding can feel like a dream come true, but it can also get very complicated, very quickly. On top of all the usual elements on your wedding to-do list, you’re going to need to arrange your venue, suppliers and caterers from a distance and will also have to get your entire wedding party overseas.
However, there are ways to simplify the process and help to keep your stress levels under control. From sticking to your budget to choosing inclusive packages, there’s many options available to help streamline your ideas. Here, we explore three tips to help simplify your destination wedding planning.
Be realistic
Marrying your partner on the peak of a mountain or on a remote tropical island may sound idyllic, but unless you’re planning to elope, it’s vital to think logically about the possibilities of making this dream a reality. Without a limitless budget, it’s not realistic to expect your friends and family to travel to the other end of the Earth for your wedding.
Work together with your partner, whilst keeping budget in mind, to compromise on a destination that has all of the qualities of your dream wedding without being too niche. Choosing a destination closer to home makes the journey easier for everyone, is more sustainable, and will reduce the cost of your flights as well.
Less is more
Destination weddings perfectly utilise the natural beauty of their surroundings, so you won’t need much in the way of decoration. Of course, you’ll still want flowers, table decorations and some finishing touches, but you can rely on the luxurious charm of minimalistic wedding decor to make this part a breeze. Your decorations should compliment your destination, not distract from it – so remember that less is definitely more.
The same mantra can be used to simplify other aspects of your day too. One of the benefits of a destination wedding is that your guest list is likely going to be far smaller than a wedding in your hometown, so you’ll have less people to cater for. As such, you can offer a simple yet high quality menu, and needn’t have multiple alcoholic drink options.
Choose multi-faceted supplies
Many destination venues offer packages that include certain suppliers, which can save you time and money in the long run. If you can, choose multi-faceted suppliers who can tick off multiple aspects of your set-up. With less people to organise and coordinate from afar, your planning process will be arguably easier.
Another great option is to hire a wedding planner in the country of your destination wedding, who can recommend trusted suppliers for you. Once you select those you’d like to work with, your planner will take the task of communicating with them on your behalf. Wedding planners can also help you navigate any legal requirements for getting married in the country of your choice, and advise you on any necessary paperwork
Enjoy the process
As much as you may want to take care of everything yourselves, leaning on those closest to you will help prevent the wedding planning process from becoming overwhelming. Whether you want help choosing a colour scheme or someone to vent to, be sure to reach out and discuss ways to further streamline your destination wedding planning. Above all, try to enjoy the process, as your wedding day is sure to come around quickly.
What should I do next?
Start researching elopement planners that specialise at your chosen wedding location, or consult specialists such WeddingsAbroad.com – who have travelled the world extensively not only planning weddings but working with hotels/resorts/tourism boards advising them on their destination wedding portfolio. They now have an impressive directory of vendors worldwide to start you on your exciting destination wedding planning journey.
Don’t forget to discuss with other brides and grooms going through the same experience on our dedicated group facebook.com/groups/weddingsabroad/