How to Plan a Destination Wedding 

We love destination weddings for many reasons, and there can be many different types planned. Some couples jet off to a tropical paradise with their closest friends and family, while others opt for an intimate elopement in the remote countryside. No matter what you envision for your big day, here are all our best tips when it comes to how to plan a destination wedding.  

 1. Make a List of Potential Destinations

The first step in planning a destination wedding comes down to one very important question – where do you and your fiancé want to get married? Are you dreaming of an all-inclusive beach getaway in Cancun, Mexico? An adventurous hiking elopement in Vail, Colorado? Stunning lakeside nuptials in Lake Como, Italy? The world is expansive, and the list of wedding destinations is endless. Step one is making a list! 

 2. Determine Guest Count

Where you can have your destination wedding largely depends on the number of guests. For example, most National Parks limit guest count between 30-50 depending on the site and park. All-inclusive resorts can often host up to 100 guests.  

 3. Research Logistics

Look at your list of potential destinations and weigh logistics for each. It is often in this step that many or most locations are eliminated because of logistical issues. This can greatly help narrow down where you will say I do. Here are some logistical questions to ask about each destination:  

When do you need to pick up your marriage license? 

In most states, you’ll need to pick up your marriage license in the county or state you are getting married in. Some county clerk’s offices are only open Monday-Friday. Make sure to leave ample time for you and your fiancé to get to clerk’s office and secure your marriage license beforehand.  

Do you need a permit? 

In places that are protected, many times you’ll need to apply and secure a permit in order to get married. Many parks and destinations limit the daily number of permits. Check to see if there are permits available and research how likely you are to get a permit for specific areas.  

Who is going to marry you? 

Sometimes, this part is easy. Other times, it is not. In Colorado, you can get married without a ordained minister (actually, your dog can legally marry you in CO!). Other states require more official ministers or clergymen to get married.   

How remote is the location? 

Sure, a beachside ceremony on the north shore of Bali sounds like a dream, but oftentimes the 16-hour flight and ride through the jungle do not.  

How will airport transfers work? 

Sometimes, the flight and location are the easy part, but the grey area in between makes a destinaton a little more difficult. Once guests land, how will they get to the destination? Is it a resort that will arrange transportation? Will they need to book their own transfers? Will cars need to be rented? If so, how many? Who will cover the cost? All important questions to answer!  

Can You Get Married Where You Want? 

Some locations are off-limits to wedding ceremonies. For example, many National Parks and resorts only allow weddings and ceremonies to take place in specific locations. And although photos can generally be taken anywhere after the ceremony, you want to ensure to get a list of wedding locations from your destination before committing.  

What is The Weather Like? 

Weather is different all over the world, and it can greatly impact your decision on where you want to get married. For example, do you want to risk getting married during hurricane season in Mexico? What about rainy season in Thailand? If it’s summer in the United States, it’s winter in the southern hemisphere. These are all important things to remember! 

4. Secure a Venue

Once you have secured the perfect location, it’s time to secure the venue! That will make everything official. Decide what day and time you want to get married, and don’t be afraid to ask for advice from the venue or resort. Locals will often have incredibly important insight to help make sure your day is exactly what you wanted.  

 5. Let Guests Know

Once your venue is secured and the date is official, let your guests know! Destination weddings take a bit more time and planning for guests, so the earlier the notice, the better. Even if you don’t have invitations ready, text or create a Facebook group for everyone to see that date the moment you know where everything will take place.  

 6. Book Accommodation & Block Rooms

Popular destinations for weddings often book out months ahead of time, so you’ll want to secure a spot for you and your new spouse ASAP, as well as block rooms for your family and friends. If you are getting married onsite at a resort or lodge, this part will most likely be done the moment you secure your wedding date with the location. However, if you’re planning to get married elsewhere, contact local hotels, resorts, and lodges to get their group rates and block rooms shortly after securing your venue.  

 7. Find a Photographer

No matter where you get married, there is most likely a local photographer who is an expert in that region. We always recommend booking a photographer who knows the area and is familiar with photographing it. This is especially important if the weather might play a role in your big day. A local photographer will already have backup photo locations in mind, and you won’t be left scrambling and figuring out new plans at the last minute.  

8. Reach Out to Additional Vendors  

Once you have the above figured out, it’s time to iron out the rest of the details! Reach out to local vendors for things such as florals, rentals, caterers, and more. If you are getting married at a resort, there will most likely be an onsite wedding planner to help with the rest of the planning.  

Now, go out and get planning! Have fun through the process, even when things get a little stressful. At the end of the day, saying ‘I do’ to your spouse in a magical location is something you’ve waited for your whole life. Congratulations!