Destination Wedding Planning Mistakes to Avoid

You’ve got the ring, and now it’s time to start thinking about where to get married. Destination weddings are a dream for many couples, but planning the big day from afar comes with its own set of challenges. Before you dive into the details, let’s cover some essential dos and don’ts to avoid these destination wedding mistakes.

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Don’t Assume Everyone Will Attend

Let’s face it, not everyone will be able to make it to your dream destination. Financial constraints, young children, work commitments—you name it. Expect about 75% of your guest list to RSVP ‘yes’.

• Why This Matters: Destination weddings are often smaller and more intimate because not everyone can afford the time or money to travel. Be prepared for some of your loved ones to miss out, and don’t take it personally.
• Pro Tip: Send out your save-the-dates as early as possible to give your guests plenty of time to plan and budget. One of the services we offer is a customized website for our clients. The website has all the details about the location and pricing. It helps your guests understand the investment.

Don’t Skip Hiring a Professional

This is a biggie. Sure, the resort might have an on-site coordinator, but you need a dedicated destination wedding specialist. Call me biased, but having a pro to guide you through the planning stages to the big day (and beyond) is a game-changer. They’ll save you time, money, and stress.

• Why This Matters: A professional planner brings expertise and local knowledge that can prevent costly mistakes and ensure your vision comes to life seamlessly.
• Pro Tip: Look for a planner with a strong portfolio and excellent reviews. Ask for references and have a detailed discussion about your expectations and their services. The right planner will make your wedding feel effortless and magical.
• Extra Pro Tip: DO NOT USE JUST ANY TRAVEL AGENT! There is a big difference between a travel agent and a destination wedding specialist!

Don’t Underestimate the Weather (Especially in the Caribbean!)

Humidity and hair can be a disastrous combo. And heavy dresses, makeup, and sweat don’t mix well either. Consider an evening ceremony, invest in humidity-resistant hair products, and swap those three-piece suits for cool linen.

• Why This Matters: Weather can significantly impact your comfort and appearance on your big day. The Caribbean, for example, is known for its humidity, which can wreak havoc on hairstyles and makeup. Plus wind plays a huge factor with that veil!
• Pro Tip: Schedule your ceremony for late afternoon or early evening to avoid the peak heat. Provide your guests with fans or parasols, and ensure there are plenty of hydration options. Consider a backup plan for rain, like an elegant tent.

Don’t Overlook Traditions – Both Home & Away

You can still honor family traditions, even in a far-off locale. Incorporate those special touches from home, but don’t be afraid to embrace local customs too. Getting married in Mexico? How about a Mariachi band for cocktail hour?

• Why This Matters: Traditions can make your wedding feel personal and meaningful. They also offer a unique way to blend your heritage with the local culture. Resorts in the Caribbean and Mexico have special wedding packages for all types of cultural traditions.
• Pro Tip: Research the local customs and traditions of your wedding destination. Incorporate elements that resonate with you and your partner. This not only honors the local culture but also creates a unique and memorable experience for your guests.

Don’t Assume You Will Automatically Save Money

Can you save money with a destination wedding? Sure, but it’s not a given. Your budget depends on the location, suppliers, food, and guest list. A hot tip: booking early often scores you better deals.

• Why This Matters: While destination weddings can sometimes be more cost-effective, they can also add up quickly with travel costs, accommodations, and additional events.
• Pro Tip: Create a detailed budget and prioritize what’s most important to you. Research all potential costs, including hidden fees. Early planning can secure discounts, and considering all-inclusive packages might save money and simplify planning. A destination wedding specialist can help you with this.

Don’t Make Anyone Guess Anything

Destination weddings come with tons of questions. Avoid the hassle by creating a wedding website. Include all the details: timings, dress code, accommodation options, flight info, and local activities.

• Why This Matters: Clear communication is key to ensuring your guests have a smooth and enjoyable experience. A well-organized wedding website can serve as a central hub for all information.
• Pro Tip: Update your website regularly as new information becomes available. Include an FAQ section to address common questions. This will reduce the number of queries you need to handle and help your guests feel more prepared.

Don’t Ship Anything Valuable

Shipping items to your destination can be risky. Put important items like your dress and rings in your carry-on or checked luggage. Every resort will tell you not to ship to the resort in order to prevent the items from going missing or getting damaged. I know it may seem like a good idea, but I’d rather you pay for the extra bag of luggage!

• Why This Matters: The last thing you want is for essential items to go missing or get damaged. This can add unnecessary stress to an already busy time.
• Pro Tip: Pack a carry-on with all your wedding day essentials, including your dress, rings, shoes, and any other valuables. Make a checklist to ensure you don’t forget anything. If you need to ship items, use a reliable service and track your packages closely.

Don’t Rule Out Suppliers from Home

Love your local makeup artist or photographer? Bring them along if your budget allows. Many are happy to travel, and having someone you trust can make a huge difference. Most of my couples offer to pay for travel expenses in exchange for services.

• Why This Matters: Familiarity with your suppliers can reduce stress and ensure you get the results you want. Their understanding of your preferences can be invaluable.
• Pro Tip: Discuss travel logistics and costs with your suppliers early. Ensure they have all the necessary information about your destination. This can include the climate, venue, and local customs that might affect their work.

Don’t Forget to Have Fun

Your wedding day will fly by, so take moments to soak it all in. Enjoy the presence of friends and family who traveled to celebrate with you, and cherish the exchange of vows in a stunning location.

• Why This Matters: Amidst all the planning and details, it’s easy to forget to enjoy the day. Taking time to be present can make your wedding day more meaningful and memorable.
• Pro Tip: Plan moments throughout the day to pause and appreciate everything. Whether it’s a private moment with your partner, a quiet toast with your closest friends, or simply taking in the view, these pauses will help you savor the day.

How To Avoid Destination Wedding Mistakes?

You need to work with a specialist! I know I already mentioned this, but it really will make the difference between everything going smoothly or not. Ready to start planning your dream destination wedding but don’t know where to begin? Reach out to me here. Let’s make your wedding day unforgettable!