You have the date of the biggest event of your life, and it’s planning time. You have probably decided with your spouse that you wish to go to a destination wedding, away from the usual routine. Destination weddings can be chaotic unless you start early and have everything under your control. In this guide, we will discuss how to find the right planner, along with the Best Affordable Destination Weddings options and more.
Plan in advance
Ideally, you should have at least a few months in hand to sort out the essential details. The first choice is certainly the destination, and while you can go anywhere in the world, it’s essential to balance your wishes with logistics. You also cannot expect to do everything alone, and that’s why the immediate step is to choose a wedding planner. Find a team that has handled destination weddings in the past and has a credible profile. Once you hand over the basic tasks, the rest is mostly about taking updates.
Make the guest list
Regardless of the destination, you need to be sure of arrangements for everyone who is coming. Having a handy guest list will only make things easier for the wedding team. For instance, you may like a resort, but the venue doesn’t have enough rooms for all guests, which means alternatives are necessary.
Review the essentials
Couples often have many ideas, but when it comes to answering simple questions, such as what they definitely need and what they are willing to negotiate, they don’t have clear answers. Make sure you know the details that matter the most to you. For instance, you may have a theme in mind for a beach wedding. Unless your planner knows your expectations, they are only going to work in circles with no clear direction.
Top destinations to consider
While there are many amazing global destinations for weddings, here are a few recommendations:
- Cancun and the Riviera Maya: If tropical climates and beaches appeal to you, Cancun and the Riviera Maya in Mexico could be a great choice. The culinary scene is excellent, and there are many locations to choose from. Also, the pricing isn’t likely to blow your budget with the right planner.
- Cabo San Lucas: The second location in Mexico you can consider is Cabo San Lucas, which is known for its coastal environment and amazing backdrops. There are numerous resorts, including luxury ones, ensuring you get a place that fits your dream theme.
- Dominican Republic: If getting married in the Caribbean is your dream, the Dominican Republic is also a charming destination to consider. Besides the beautiful landscapes, the culture, food, and adventure options are great for a celebration.
- Jamaica: The last one to consider is Jamaica, which is not just a favorite of couples for beach weddings, but there is also so much to explore. Think of rainforests and the mountain range as the witnesses to your big day.
Avoid the usual mistakes
A destination wedding is fun as long as you have everything planned. However, it is also essential to avoid a few usual pitfalls. Firstly, set a part of your budget aside for contingencies. Certain aspects are unpredictable or may change; you want to be prepared. Secondly, if you have hired a wedding planner, don’t try to micromanage everything. Yes, you should check pictures of past events, the expertise of the team, the budget, and other details, but once you have selected a planner, let them do the job. Finally, ensure you have the plan in advance, including bookings, decor, travel details, and catering options.
Select a wedding planner you can trust for their work and vision; you will have less to fret about!