Planning Your Destination Wedding

Destination weddings can be a unique and beautiful experience! Taking your wedding out of town can reduce certain stressors. But planning nuptials in a faraway place can bring other planning needs that you might not have thought of. Here are a few steps to planning your perfect destination wedding, no matter where you go!

1. Pick a location. Deciding where to host your special day is the first step. Since you’re already choosing a different destination, consider what you and your future spouse want. Do you prefer somewhere warm or cold? Somewhere more glamorous or private and lowkey? Also keep in mind who you want to attend your wedding, and how feasible it is for your loved ones to attend. If you’ve narrowed down what city or town you’re going to but not the specific location, it can be helpful to look at multiple venues to check costs and availability.

2. Check local marriage requirements. If you’re getting married in another state or country, make sure to see what local requirements are. Depending on the area, you may need to file for a marriage license well in advance. Other places have different requirements for officiants and witnesses, so it’s best to know what you’ll need to do before you arrive. 

3. Pick a date. Once you have your dream location, consider when you want to tie the knot. If you’re going to a popular vacation spot, it can be less crowded to book your venue during the off-season for the area. Some also choose to find a local wedding planner who knows the vendors and venues well. 

4. Find the perfect dress. Once you know where you’re going, it’s time to get your dress. When planning your wedding day attire, take into consideration your location. If you’re saying “I do” on the beach, you may not want a ballgown or heavy tuxedo. If you’re planning your wedding on the top of a snow-capped mountain, remember some warm boots and a chic jacket.

5. Find accommodations for you an your guests. Since you’ll be out of town, you’ll need to find a place to stay. If you’re getting married at a hotel or resort, it can be easiest to plan on staying at the venue. If your ceremony is a little farther away, research what accommodations are nearby. It isn’t necessary to book and pay for every guests’ hotel room, but it is common to reserve a block of rooms for guests, and let them know where and when those reservations can be made.