I’m sure for every couple, during wedding planning, eloping or a destination wedding has crossed their mind at least once. Planning a wedding can be very overwhelming because there are so many moving parts, vendors and guest needs. Who wouldn’t want to sit back and let someone plan the whole thing and you get to enjoy the vacation too?!
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Why have a destination wedding?
I checked in with a few brides who chose to have a destination wedding for some first hand feedback. I can’t say I was fully surprised by their responses, because I know I would enjoy great weather, vacation time and all-inclusive packages as well. If you are torn with the decision of whether or not to plan a destination wedding maybe a few of their tips will help you decide!
Lindsay
Destination wedding in Hilton Head, SC.
Favorite part – Getting married on the beach on vacation with our closest loved ones. We also loved how easy it was to plan a wedding. The hotel took care of all of the food, reception, drinks, decorations and more with customizable wedding packages.
Something you would have done differently – Our biggest regret was not getting a videographer.
Why you chose a destination wedding – We chose Hilton Head because it was exactly what we wanted and relatively close and affordable for our wedding party and guests.
How difficult or easy was it to transport wedding attire – We had a family friend drive and take my bridal gown and accessories so I didn’t have to check them with the airline.
Kate
Destination wedding at Hard Rock, Punta Cana
Favorite part – The simplicity of planning it all out and being on vacation with family and close friends.
Something you would have done differently – As a stylist I did my own hair and makeup and didn’t hire any help for myself, or the wedding party. I highly recommend hiring help for hair and makeup for everyone.
Why you chose a destination wedding – As a stylist doing bridal hair, more times than not the bride is stressed out. When I attended my friend’s destination wedding everything seemed to go so smooth, everyone really enjoyed them selves. When she shared the expense with me I was shocked at how much cheaper it was for the bride and groom as apposed to a wedding at home. That bride also expressed how easy everything was to plan.
How difficult or easy was it to transport wedding attire – It was very easy to fly my dress with me. The material of my dress was wrinkle-free.
Relaxation to pampered wedding day to celebrating
When to start planning your wedding
The recommended time from wedding planners is to book your venue 12-16 months before the desired wedding date. However, if your dream location is a very popular one you may want to start 18 months prior.
Things to keep in mind while planning
Weather – different locations have rainy seasons, hurricane seasons, tourist times and cooler seasons. If you are looking for a good deal and aren’t worried about the calendar year for your wedding date, you may want to check out the “off season” times for venues.
Perks & packages – bigger hotels and venues offer a lot of perks to book with them. Some include free rooms, discounts for extra days and excursions. Depending on what your wedding needs are you can get packages that include everything from flowers and photographer, to drinks and food. A lot of venues also include volume discounts for bigger parties.
Who should you invite to your destination location?
If you want to keep it small, affordable and for close friends and family only, I would advise sending an actual wedding invite to those few people and include all of the venue details and hotel booking information. Then send an invite for your reception back home to all of those you would love to share that special occasion with. If you wish to invite everyone to your destination location and allow them to choose if they can make it or not, send both the wedding invite AND the invite for the reception back home.
Not interested in having a reception back home?
That’s ok! You don’t have to have a reception back home after your destination wedding. It’s one great advantage to getting away. It’s YOUR special day, YOUR way!
How to pack & get your bridal gown to your destination
You have several options for safe travel and arrival of your wedding dress and accessories, some may surprise you! Be sure to contact your airlines to ask them what they allow and what requirements they have, and always pack your dress in a protective garment bag.
- Purchase a first class ticket or a priority-boarding pass. The majority of airplanes have a closet up front to easy store your gown.
- Overhead bin storage isn’t the best option, but your dress will stay within reach and you are in control of it. If there is enough space to lay it flat, please do that! If not, roll very carefully starting with the hanger and either pack a travel steamer if ask hotel if they have one.
- Your airline may require you to purchase a plane ticket for the dress itself. Yep, you read that right! If this isn’t a requirement (or a budget option), you can always check a few days before your flight to see if there are any empty seats to sit your dress in.
Whether a beach sunset is your dream wedding or a quaint destination wedding is way less stressful for you, there is always a great location for the perfect destination wedding. Please check out some of my other popular posts below for more tips and tricks for all things beauty and bridal; and as always, like and subscribe to my social media to keep up to date on the best trends and tutorials.
