Congratulations! You said yes and although you have not come down from Cloud9 yet, it's time to brain dump your ideas and get them written out for your perfect day. When it comes to planning a wedding, you will have to make a lot of decisions. Perhaps the most important decision you will have to make first, and that is where to have the wedding. As you begin brainstorming, you may be considering a destination wedding. Here are a few things to consider to help you decide if a destination wedding is right for you and you're boo.
The Cost
The price of a wedding is something people usually talk about last when it should be discussed first. Depending on where you have your wedding and the number of guests, the price of a destination wedding can go up and down. For example, let’s say you are planning a smaller wedding on a Caribbean island at an all-inclusive resort. It may be more cost-effective than a big wedding in a more local city. It all depends on what and who you want on your special day!
The Location
No matter where you have your wedding, the location will play a significant role in your wedding. It will set the tone for the rest of the planning process and help you determine everything from what you wear to what you eat. Whether it’s a tropical wedding in the Caribbean, a fairytale wedding in a European castle, or a romantic wedding in your hometown, location is everything!
Local Resources
Part of the appeal of having a destination wedding is incorporating the local culture into your wedding festivities. Using local flowers for your bouquet, serving traditional dishes for dinner and even using the natural beauty of your destination for photos are great ways to save money and commemorate your special day.
Travel Stress
When choosing a destination, you need to consider how easy it will be for you and your guests to travel. Is there a direct flight from most major cities? Do major airlines fly there? Once you’re there, how will everyone get around? A travel advisor can help sort all of this out, but it is important to keep it in mind when selecting a destination.
Number of Attendees
Considering the number of people you want to have at your wedding is essential for multiple reasons. Not only do you need to consider the costs you’ll be paying for them to attend, but the costs they will have to pay to travel there. Additionally, you want to make sure that your venue can accommodate all of your loved ones.
The Honeymoon
One of the perks of having a destination wedding is being able to go on your honeymoon immediately. If your ideal wedding and honeymoon both involve a tropical island, then it is probably worth planning a destination wedding. This can also allow you more time to spend with your guest before the wedding. However, some guests may choose to extend their stay, so you might consider moving to a different resort for your honeymoon.
If you need additional help deciding if a destination wedding is right for you and your fiancé, download our FREE guide, Top 5 Secrets to Planning Your Perfect Destination Wedding.
