A destination wedding is a beautiful opportunity to create amazing memories with your closest family and friends that will last a lifetime. You have the chance to marry the person of your dreams in a stunning location, while you experience the local culture. Dreams do come true! However, planning this kind of wedding is not an easy task. Here are 5 tips if you are considering a destination wedding.
1. Start Planning as Soon as Possible
Planning a destination wedding takes time and effort well in advance. Just like a local wedding, discuss budget, guest size, and location as soon as possible. This will also give you and your guests plenty of time to book airfare and hotels, renew passports and book time off work for your special day.
2. Rules and Laws
Do your research on local laws regarding marriages and weddings. Requirements vary from country to country and finding out ahead of time and carefully planning will allow for your destination wedding to take off without any issues. Some things to consider:
- Will your marriage be legal in the location you have chosen?
- Do you want to be legally be married in your home city first and your wedding with guests will be symbolic?
- Do you need any vaccinations or blood work done?
- What other requirements does the destination country have for you to proceed with a legal marriage?
3. Create an Itinerary
If you plan on having activities for your guests before and after your wedding, create a fun itinerary for them. This is a mini vacation for you and your guests after all! Check out if there are any events, activities, or sites locally that your guests would love to see. An itinerary will keep everyone on track and fully informed and aware of what is happening during your destination wedding.
4. Welcome Guest Basket
We always suggest a welcome basket as a thank you to your guests for coming to your destination wedding. Some great examples are a silky robe, a water bottle (if you are in a hot climate location), chocolate from that town/city, and a map.
5. Hire a Wedding Planner
Hiring a wedding planner who specializes or that knows the location well is a must. They will sort through any issues and be in contact with the local vendors while you prep and relax before your destination wedding. A guaranteed stress-free planning for you!
Fiona is keen on helping you plan your dream destination wedding – if you’re thinking about hosting one, she’ll gladly go on a coffee date with you to start planning some magic! ✨
For more wedding tips check out the blog at www.fionalauevents.ca
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