Destination Weddings: Tips for Organizing a Faraway Celebration
Destination weddings are the perfect opportunity to bring your love to new places. While the one-in-a-lifetime weekend seems ideal, there’s much to consider when planning a seamless event in an outside location. From breaking down guest lists to organizing travel arrangements, your wedding itinerary will be jam-packed as you plan from afar. Whether you’re taking your love abroad or on a quick flight to a neighboring state, use these tips to guide you to your final destination.
Thoroughly Communicate Details
Like any good relationship knows, communication is key and there’s no exception when it comes to hosting a destination event. Your guests are traveling near and far to watch your big day unfold, so properly organizing all of the logistics can help them to comfortably coordinate their arrivals. Outside of your invitations, wedding websites and additional stationery are great options for including all information, in one central location, so that you can avoid being bombarded with questions.
Here are a few things to consider including:
A weekend schedule breakdown that outlines when and where all festivities will be taking place.
Any travel plans including transport, passport requirements, and booking rooms included in your room block.
Wedding etiquette, attire, and any additional information that could be helpful to their arrangements.
Creating a clear and concise blueprint of your special getaway will leave you and your guests feeling ready to take flight.
Not All Guests Can Travel - That’s Okay
When it comes to an out of town wedding, some of your invited guests might not be able to make the travel accommodations work for them - that’s okay. It’s important to be realistic when planning and to get comfortable with knowing that you might face some attrition. On the contrary, a flight-required event can also be a perfect way to cut down on your guest list in a guilt-free way.
Regardless of your desired size, here are tips to help with your decision:
Set expectations with your guests early on. Let them know whether you’re opting for something intimate with just immediate friends and family or if you’re welcoming an extended list with plus ones.
If you prefer a smaller ceremony, but still want to celebrate with all of your friends and family, ditch the long wedding guest list and consider hosting a larger gathering upon your return.
Lastly, decide whether you or your guests will be responsible for covering their travel expenses. In most cases, guests are expected to pay their way to attending, however each wedding is different and it’s up to the couple to decide what makes the most sense for them.
Staying mindful of your budget, venue capacity, and potential travel conflicts will keep your hopes highs and disappointments low.
Consider the Climate & Pack Accordingly
New destinations mean new climates - some of which may be unpredictable. Being far from home also means that you may be less prepared to handle any problems on your big day. Doing your research and understanding what to expect and how to manage if something goes wrong will help you avoid the stress of any potential last minute crises.
While some things are outside of your control, here are a few to acknowledge before taking off:
Pay attention to the forecast, travel advisories, or any environmental concerns. If you’re not familiar with the area, take to the internet or partner with local experts to get a better understanding of what you can expect.
Select accommodations in safe areas. Read reviews and ask for recommendations to ensure that your stay is secure.
If you’re flying to your location, brides and grooms are encouraged to carry on their ceremony attire in a garment bag to avoid the risk of airlines losing or damaging your ensembles.
Staying prepared and planning ahead for any adversities is the best way to avoid them. Consult a professional and do your own personal research before jetsetting off to your ultimate getaway.
Hire a Local Wedding Planner
No one knows the top local vendors, venues, and experiences better than a wedding planner that resides in or frequents the area. If you want your dream destination wedding to go off without a hitch, then hiring a local, credible professional is a must. Since you won’t be in-person for some, or even all, of your meetings, it’s important to work with a planner that truly understands your vision and can act as your long-distance set of eyes and ears.
Here’s how a wedding planner can help:
They’re experts in guiding you through the decision-making process. From choosing a venue to curating thoughtful designs, the right planner is there to deliver your perfect day.
They act as project managers, overseeing all of the logistics and ensuring that all parties are staying on track with deadlines, so you don’t have to.
They alleviate the stress that can come with unfamiliarity. While it might be your first time planning, it isn’t theirs. Their knowledge and expertise can be immensely helpful in navigating a new setting.
While destination weddings can seem like a dream, working with a wedding planner that offers a full scope of services is truly the key to making it come true. At Allison Event Design, we’re seasoned adventurers, prepared to bring your dream celebration to life wherever you envision it.
Want to learn more about what to expect for your destination event? Connect with us today!
