We ask an expert about the biggest destination wedding mistakes, from choosing the wrong locales to setting an unrealistic timeline.
2 August 2023
The lure of a destination wedding is easy to see: magical vistas, better-than-average weather, and a built-in holiday for all your loved ones. However, while it can be an immensely rewarding experience, the process of actually planning a destination wedding can be daunting. Coordinating the venue, flowers, food, music, and more, all in another country, leads to a perfect recipe for mistakes.
“Planning a destination wedding requires couples to stay even more organized and proactive than for local weddings,” says Valentina Ring, a destination wedding planner. “It’s all about asking the right questions, considering country-specific scenarios, and diligently following up with suppliers if communications slow down.”
“Some places may have a more laid-back approach to email communication or may be bureaucratic mazes when navigating legal requirements for foreigners. Others may offer an industry built around packages, leaving little room for bespoke proposals.”
The key is to set expectations when planning with vendors and to maintain regular, clear communication. Yet, even if you follow all these steps, there’s still room for mistakes. Therefore, if you want your dream wedding in the rolling hills of Tuscany, the lush jungles of Bali, or the cobbled streets of Paris, here are five common mistakes when planning a destination wedding and how to avoid them.
1. Choosing an Instagram-Favourite Location
While a wedding at a vine-covered villa might sound beautiful, it’s best to avoid setting your sights on any specific location until determining if it fits your budget. Three-day celebrations at popular venues can quickly escalate in cost. Instead, Ring suggests selecting a destination based on its meaning or style that aligns with your wedding vision.
“Consider places that hold significance for you, connected to fond memories or personal passions,” she continues. Research will help you identify which location is truly right for you.
If you’re considering a new location, visiting before committing to the venue allows you to gauge the travel experience for you and your guests. Meeting local vendors and seeing the venue in person will help you plan more intelligently.
2. Underestimating Your Budget
As with any wedding, your budget will depend on your chosen location, style, and prioritized elements. However, couples often forget to account for extended celebrations during destination weddings.
Ring explains, “While some locations may have low venue fees, florals and other elements could be more expensive due to challenges in sourcing them.” Therefore, reassess your budget or revisit priorities if needed.
Moreover, it’s perfectly acceptable to ask guests to cover part of their expenses, like meals or accommodations. Guests often consider weddings an extended holiday and understand if some costs aren’t covered.
3. Setting an Unrealistic Timeline
Getting engaged can bring about the urge to wed quickly; however, if you’re planning a destination wedding, it’s advisable to allow at least a year for planning, ideally 18 months. Destination weddings often involve more logistical challenges, and communication speeds can vary.
With extra time, you’ll manage details more effectively and provide guests ample notice to save for travel and arrange logistics. Ring recommends sending Save The Dates as soon as possible and invitations between four to eight months prior to the wedding.
4. Checking a Country’s Legal Marriage Requirements
If you want to sign your legal wedding documents on your special day, ensure you choose a country that allows legal ceremonies for foreigners. “Be aware of bureaucratic challenges before committing to a location,” Ring advises. Alternatively, consider handling the legal paperwork locally for peace of mind while enjoying a symbolic ceremony abroad.
5. Vetting Your Suppliers
The success of your wedding day heavily relies on your suppliers. However, finding reliable vendors can be challenging when planning a destination wedding. It’s crucial to thoroughly research your vendors, provide ample details, and wait to book until you feel completely comfortable.
Wedding insurance is highly recommended to safeguard your financial investment. “Many foreign venues may require this,” Ring adds, “so ensure you understand the coverage you’re signing up for.”
