Destination weddings are becoming increasingly popular. Imagine saying your vows on a sun-kissed beach in a tropical paradise. Destination weddings were traditionally small, intimate affairs perhaps only involving the bride and groom or maybe just a few select guests. However, in recent times destination weddings have become as large and as grand as those which take place at home, meaning that now there is a whole new set of rules to follow for getting married on a distant shore.
If you are planning a destination wedding then here are a few tips to help with your wedding planning.
It can be tempting to invite lots of people to the wedding, but you may be limited as to the number of guests who can attend. Check with the venue first.
Destination wedding etiquette says that the bride and groom should pay for the accommodation and food of their wedding guests. Guests need only pay for their flights, so factor these costs in. Naturally, you do not have to comply with etiquette so some guests may be happy to fund the trip themselves, whilst others may need you to pay or contribute towards the cost.
When you send out your invitations be clear with your guests about what you will be paying for. If you really want someone in particular to be there, then be prepared to have to pay for them.
You should pay for the accommodation of your wedding party. These people are helping you throughout the wedding planning and on the day itself so reward them for their efforts.
Try to negotiate the best rates possible for accommodation in the local area, if you cannot get everyone to the same hotel as you, then find somewhere else nearby and negotiate block bookings there as well.
Let your guests know about any particular dress code you are applying. You may want a casual relaxed atmosphere or you may want something more formal. Just let your guests know whether you are expecting bikini’s and sarongs or pretty dresses and hats!
Make sure your guests are aware of the weather and temperatures at your particular destination so that they can pack accordingly. You should also inform of any other functions that you will be holding before or after the wedding, such as a rehearsal dinner.
In the run-up to the big day, you may just find yourselves milling around the hotel complex looking something to do. As a couple, you may want some time alone together or with just a few close friends and family. Make sure you find out about any activities, excursions, amenities and other leisure facilities so that you can pass all this on to your guests. Hopefully, you will all find something to occupy yourselves and not be living in each other pockets for the entire trip!
When your guests arrive at the location be on hand to greet them, arrange a welcome dinner or cocktail hour to welcome them all to your wedding. This is also a good point at which to let them know about any activities etc that are available.
It is also a good opportunity to run through the arrangements for the wedding day itself and any other functions which you may have organized. I would also advise on having a printed agenda for the wedding sent round to every guest before the day as well.
