10 Tips for Choosing a Destination Wedding Location
There are over 25 sovereign island nations and dependent territories in the Caribbean. Between Mexico and the Caribbean there are over 400 all-inclusive resorts. With so many choices, selecting a destination wedding location requires careful consideration of several factors. If you’re considering a destination wedding, you should keep in mind these 10 tips for choosing a destination wedding location:
1
Accessibility
Consider the ease of access to the destination, including travel time, transportation options, and visa requirements.
While you may be willing to travel to a far-off location for your wedding, not all of your guests may feel the same way. Consider the ease of travel for ‘have-to-be-there’ guests, and choose a location that is accessible and convenient for them. Look for locations with good transportation options, such as airports and rental cars, and car service.
2
Accommodation
Choose a location and resort that inspires you and feels like the perfect backdrop for your special day.
Your destination wedding location should reflect your personal style and the type of wedding you want to have. If you’re dreaming of a beach wedding, look for locations that have beautiful beaches and ocean views. If you want ocean backdrop without getting sand in your shoes choose a resort that has a beautiful ocean view outdoor terrace.
Consider the accommodation options for your guests, whether they are family-friendly, and whether they fit your wedding theme.
3
Activities and Attractions
If you’re choosing a destination wedding location in a different country or culture, consider the cultural experience that you and your guests will have.
Consider what activities and attractions the destination has to offer to keep your guests entertained throughout their stay.
4
Cost
Before you consider potential destination wedding locations, it’s important to determine your ballpark budget. This will help you narrow down your options and avoid falling in love with a location that is out of your price range.
Consider all of the expenses involved in a destination wedding, such as travel, accommodations, venue fees, and vendor costs, and make sure you have a realistic budget in mind.
Consider the cost of travel, accommodation, and the wedding venue. You should also keep in mind the costs your guests will need to pay.
If you retain a destination wedding travel advisor, they can work with you to get an understanding of costs before you go to deep in your search.
5
Language and Culture
Research the local customs, traditions, and cuisine, and consider incorporating them into your wedding celebration. Hiring local vendors, such as musicians or dancers, can also add to the cultural experience.
If the wedding is in a location where a language other than your own is predominantly spoken, consider hiring a local planner or translator to help navigate any potential language or cultural barriers.
Luckily, this is usually not an issue in most areas of Mexico and the Caribbean.
6
Local Laws and Regulations
The local laws and regulations of a destination can be a consideration, especially when it comes to wedding licenses, permits, and other requirements including clothing. Did you know for example that it is illegal to wear camouflage in Jamaica?
Each country and state has different laws and regulations when it comes to getting married. This may include residency requirements, marriage license fees, or necessary permits. It’s a good idea to retain a destination wedding advisor who can work with you on the requirements.
7
Photography and Videography
Consider the photo and video opportunities that the location offers to capture your wedding memories.
Think about whether local photographers can capture your special day in the way you want or whether you feel more comfortable including a photographer from home whose work you greatly admire.
8
Vendor Privileges & Availability
If you’re having a resort wedding many resorts have preferred vendors and therefore charge fees if you use other vendors. Be sure you understand the resort rules regarding non-preferred vendors. If you’re doing an off-site wedding be sure to check for the availability of vendors, such as florists, caterers, DJs, and photographers in the destination you’re considering.
9
Venue
Choose a venue that fits your vision and wedding style. The venue should also be able to accommodate your guest list comfortably.
Look for venues that have a dedicated wedding team, good reviews, and plenty of photos and videos of past weddings. A venue with experience can help you plan your wedding seamlessly and avoid any potential issues or hiccups.
Work with a destination wedding travel advisor who has relationships with the resort you’re considering and knows the venues well. This type of expertise can help you answer critical questions you never thought to ask.
10
Weather
Check the weather patterns in the location during your preferred wedding dates. If its rainy or hurricane season and you’d like to have a beach wedding then your plan B wedding venue is just as important as your plan A.
By considering 10 tips for choosing a destination wedding location , you can narrow down your options significantly and get closer to your perfect location.
Wanna check out some of the newest destination wedding resorts? Consider these 5 brand new destination wedding resorts.
Prefer the convenience of expert advice? Contact one of our certified destination wedding travel agents.
