How to Plan the Ultimate Destination Wedding

Having a destination wedding miles away from your home base—perhaps on the other side of the country or in a far-flung locale—generally means that you're in for a more immersive, intimate experience, complete with a jaw-dropping backdrop and a cultural undercurrent. And if the location plays a particularly important role in your relationship, the site will make your celebration even more authentic and meaningful. Not to mention, you and your future spouse will get to enjoy a two-for-one wedding and honeymoon—a win-win in our book.

While there are plenty of enticing reasons to hold your celebration in a far-off spot, orchestrating such an event, however, is no easy feat. Planning a wedding in any location tends to be a long process with many moving parts, but organizing the details from afar, where you have the potential to encounter language barriers and time zone differences, can make each step a bit more difficult.

According to Sarah Chancey, founder and creative director of Chancey Charm, while tedious tasks or unforeseen complications are inevitable, you can transform the planning experience with the right attitude and approach, aspects that are completely within your control. Proceeding in a laissez-faire way will make the task of planning a destination wedding a lot more enjoyable. "What I see a lot with weddings that are outside of the U.S. is that the couple can quickly become impatient with the response of vendors and relaxed mindsets," the pro shares. "A more relaxed perspective is very common with our international destination weddings, so make sure you're OK with going with the flow, even up to the wedding day."

If a destination wedding suits you, your personality, and your vision, there are a number of important factors to consider when organizing the details of your affair. We talked to a handful of professional wedding planners to get the rundown on everything to know before jetting off to a picturesque place to say "I do." Read on for a complete guide to planning a destination wedding.

What Is a Destination Wedding?

A destination wedding is a ceremony and reception held anywhere outside of the couple’s hometown or current place of residence. There’s a common misconception that destination nuptials have to take place in another country, but throwing a soirée a few states over also classifies as a destination wedding. Excluding your childhood home or your present-day zip code, you can choose virtually any location, whether it’s domestic or abroad, for your event.

Just like there’s a great deal of variation regarding the location, the look and feel of a destination wedding also differs depending on the couple. Generally, since soon-to-be newlyweds are asking their guests to travel, the celebration will typically span a few days or a weekend and contain multiple events, such as a welcome dinner, the ceremony and reception, and a post-wedding brunch. As for the wedding décor and experience, couples tend to highlight the location and culture throughout their affair, such as decorating the venue with the native flowers or serving the region’s customary cuisine. 

The Best Time to Host a Destination Wedding

Because destination weddings happen across the globe, the best time to host yours depends on the region. Wedding planners at Chancey Charm advise keeping a few factors in mind when securing your date. 

Note the Climate

The weather is an important element that affects many couples' decisions. Most duos getting married want their big day to be balmy with blue skies, a slight breeze, and plenty of sunshine. If your fête is happening by the coast, select a date outside of hurricane season—like avoiding June through November for nuptials in the Caribbean, for example. Or if you want to capture the beautiful colors of fall in Aspen, for instance, aim for the end of September.

Consider the Season

Each travel spot has a peak season, where tourists tend to flock to the locale. Besides dealing with crowds, hosting your destination wedding during this time of the year will also be more expensive. However, the planners at Chancey Charm note that if you do hold your affair in the off season, some amenities won't be available. A good compromise? Shoulder season dodges both heightened charges and throngs of people.

Pay Attention to Big Events

Before booking your venue and blocking off the date, pull up the local event calendar. Pay attention to any major events that could bring in large crowds—a surplus of people means lodging will be more in demand and costly. It goes without saying that major world events, like the Olympics, are another factor to keep in mind.

The Cost of a Destination Wedding

The cost of a destination wedding is based on numerous aspects, like the location, the time of year, the number of guests, the number of days booked, and the number of events planned, among other factors. That said, the average cost is around $35,000. Celebrations in cities typically have a higher price tag than those in more rural areas, and beach bashes require a bigger budget than those in national parks. To get an estimate for your event, the planners at Chancey Charm suggest allocating $1,000 per guest.

The Most Popular Destination Wedding Locations Right Now

Since traveling has become increasingly more desirable over the years, destination weddings are now (and continue to be) a popular choice for those getting married. There are a handful of locations, in particular, that engaged duos tend to gravitate toward.

Paris, France

According to a survey of 3,000 Americans, which fine jewelry company Shane Co. conducted in 2023, 88 percent of respondents said Paris would be their locale of choice if they were to throw a destination wedding. Aptly dubbed the City of Love, this European site is home to exquisite architecture, world-famous attractions, and critically acclaimed cuisine. Plus, it’s easily accessible—you can catch a non-stop flight to the city from most major airports.

Amalfi Coast, Italy

Another hot spot? The Amalfi Coast. There’s arguably nothing more surreal than exchanging vows on a cliff overlooking the ocean with the colorful town in plain view. You can’t beat the Mediterranean menu, pleasant weather, and romantic feel, either. 

Santorini, Greece

Similar to a destination wedding on the Amalfi Coast, tying the knot in Santorini offers cliffside venues and oceanfront views. Whitewashed buildings set against the sparkling blue water offers a dreamy ambiance, perfect for any affair.

St. Lucia, Caribbean

The planners at Chancey Charm say all Caribbean islands are favorable for destination weddings, but St. Lucia tops the list. This site provides unique, striking settings for your wedding, from black-sand beaches to waterfall-clad rainforests. Besides the unbeatable views, the coastal fare is another plus.

Tulum, Mexico

Mexico is also appealing to many couples getting hitched. Tulum, in particular, is a trendy spot that’s relatively affordable and naturally beautiful, complete with white-sand beaches, lush jungles, and crystal-clear water.

Charleston, South Carolina

Based on the Shane Co. survey results, the most coveted state for destination weddings is Charleston, South Carolina. This U.S. city has a moderate climate year-round, which makes outdoor nuptials possible at any point in the year. Charleston also has Instagram-worthy architecture, a rich sense of history, and bustling nightlife.

Honolulu, Hawaii

Another popular U.S.-based destination wedding spot is Honolulu. This dazzling island has a lot to offer, from waterfront venues and warm temperatures to fresh food and energetic cultural experiences.

Tips for Planning a Destination Wedding

Whether you've decided on a tropical celebration in the Bahamas, an island fête in Bali, or a romantic getaway in Tuscany, we've got you covered with every detail you need to know when planning a destination wedding.

Choose a Location

When deciding on a destination, make sure it's safe and stocked with all of the resources you need: That charming beach town where you spent your childhood summers won't work if it can't accommodate all of your guests or any of their accessibility or childcare requirements. Ensure there are no recent travel warnings, political issues, or health concerns in the region—if there are and you remain undeterred, make sure your guests are fully informed and that none of them will feel uncomfortable due to their religion, gender, or sexual preference.

Hire a Professional

Find a planner or coordinator that specializes in destinations around the world. "If you're planning a destination wedding, you're going to need feet on the ground before you arrive, finalizing all of the last-minute details, so you and your guests can arrive stress-free," Chancey shares.

This way, instead of spending hours on phone calls trying to overcome a language barrier or making executive decisions from miles away, you have an expert taking care of every element for you. Skylar Albritton, lead planner and designer at Chancey Charm, even recommends finding a planner with knowledge of "the locations, venues, and planning outlook," before you book your venue. However, if a planner isn't in your budget, look for a resort with a strong on-site coordinator.

Consider Guest Lodging

While etiquette doesn't require that you cover the cost of accommodations, it's a thoughtful gesture to provide recommendations that satisfy a range of budgets. "It's best to offer several options at different price points," suggests Laurie Arons, founder of Laurie Arons Special Events. "But keep all hotel suggestions within a 10-minute radius, 15 tops."

Setting up room blocks can help you negotiate a lower price and consolidate everyone in one vicinity. Also, don't set your date until you're sure there's room for everyone.

Go Local to Save Big

Arons recommends slashing your budget by incorporating local blooms (think olive branches in Tuscany or exotic flowers in the tropics) and serving local specialties (like conch fritters in the Bahamas or carnitas in Cabo) to cut costs. This also creates an immersive experience in the very environment that captured your heart. You're shelling out big for this destination, so you might as well fully embrace everything it has to offer.

Visit in Advance

Ideally, you'll see your venue once before booking and three to four months before the wedding to finalize details. If a second trip isn't possible, arrive at least five days early to make those decisions and have your hair and makeup trials.

"I would surely encourage couples to visit the destination at least once and give themselves two to three days [at the destination] if scheduling allows," shares Darryl Moore, founder of D'Concierge Weddings. He also recommends visiting during peak and non-peak hours, from Thursday to Sunday, in order to get a sense of the overall vibe the location provides. "This is the perfect time for you to see and feel what your guests will feel and experience," he adds. "If you can't make it, hire a professional who is great at details and communication."

Meet Your Vendors

Prior to your first site visit, set up meetings with the better-known florists and rental companies in your destination. Arons suggests asking your venue for referrals; you might uncover local talent you didn’t know about and score some savings. If you're bringing specialists from home, expect to cover their travel and lodging costs. Arons notes a clean, safe hotel within 30 minutes of your venue is a must. Negotiate these expenses up front, so things don't get out of control.

Plan Additional Events

Extend your celebration by planning additional events outside of the big day. While you don't have to go all out with a full weekend of events, a welcome party to greet everyone is a popular choice. Depending on your budget, you can combine this with your rehearsal dinner or host a more informal gathering for your larger group afterwards. Some couples also include activities that showcase the locale, like group tours or tastings. You can even close the wedding weekend with flair and say your farewells at a post-wedding brunch or luncheon.

All that said, additional events aren't required, and you should do whatever works within your budget and timeline. "A beautiful welcome reception and meet-and-greet would be a nice experience for the two families to bond and get to know each other," Moore says. "But obviously, there is no right or wrong way to plan your wedding. It's your moment and money to do whatever you like."

Secure Wedding Insurance

When it comes to getting married in a foreign land, it's best to expect the unexpected. Investing in wedding insurance will help protect your financial investment and offer some emotional assurance—plus, some venues even require it. Sign up well in advance of your wedding day (while some companies can accommodate a tight turnaround, it's best to have this sorted early), and get crystal clear on what policies there are and the type of coverage you're agreeing to.

Consider Unexpected Expenses

Destination weddings get an interesting rap for being more budget-friendly, but this isn't always the case. Be sure to include wiggle room in your budget for additional expenses, such as non-vendor tips, airport transfers, shipping costs, and baggage fees. Plus, adding that welcome party or day-after brunch will definitely increase the bill.

Don't forget to let your credit card company know of your travel intentions, so you don't get hit with foreign transaction fees—or worse, a declined card—at the final hour. You'll want to carry some cash with you (in the local currency) as well.

Check Local Marriage Requirements

Making a marriage legal in a foreign country isn't quite as easy as hiring an officiant. Different countries have different requirements necessitating a whole myriad of paperwork, such as birth and medical certificates, letters of intent, and even proof of residency. Educate yourself far in advance to ensure you have enough time to get everything together. In some cases, it may be easier to get a domestic marriage certificate (these vary by state) and have a civil ceremony prior to your departure.

Secure Passports and Other Documents

A valid passport is a given for international travel, and at the very least, you'll need a current driver's license (or a REAL ID beginning in May 2025) for domestic destinations. Double-check all expiration dates as soon as you choose your wedding date and location, then check again. Depending on the country, additional information, such as a list of previously visited countries, health records, or vaccinations, may be required.

Create Welcome Bags

Show some hospitality by offering welcome bags once guests arrive. Fill them with items that speak to the locale or that will provide some comfort during their stay. Objects like water bottles, snacks, maps, and aspirin are great additions. Warm-weather destinations call for sunscreen or aloe vera, while alpine environments are conducive to hot cocoa mixes or mittens.

Stuff Your Suitcase

"I've yet to find a destination outside the continental U.S. that has the same quality and selection of rental linens," Arons notes. "Shipping overseas is risky and expensive, so I always pack as much as possible into checked luggage." Anything that can be shipped should be sent out no less than a month before the big day, and it should be addressed to a specific individual (like your planner), rather than just the hotel.

Choose an Appropriate Dress

Carefully consider the climate and terrain of your wedding day when dress shopping. Breathable fabrics work best in hot, humid locations, while dresses made from thick materials are better suited for cooler climates. Lightweight lace in Mexico is stunning, as is an embellished ballgown at a villa in France.

Whatever you do, don't even think about checking your dress in a suitcase. Arons recommends carrying your dress on the plane, even if it means having to fold it. (Just make sure someone at the other end can press and steam it.)

Get Away Gracefully

Transitioning into honeymoon mode may require a bit of finesse, especially if you've decided to stay at the same resort as guests who have extended their own travels. Be clear about your departure (even if you're staying on the property) by saying your goodbyes amidst the fanfare of a post-reception send-off or next-day brunch.

If it's privacy you seek (without offending your loved ones), move to a different section of the hotel. Some resorts have elevated accommodations (think: luxury suites, over-water villas, or independent cabins) that are positioned separately from other rooms.

The Top Destination Wedding Planning Questions, Answered

To help further guide you, our experts have answered the top questions couples typically have when planning a destination wedding.

When do I notify guests of my destination wedding?

Be sure to mail your save-the-dates eight to 12 months before the wedding, so guests can make arrangements as soon as possible. For the official invites, Arons advises sending them out no later than three to four months before your big day. This timeline can be a bit more lax for domestic destinations.

Who pays for guest accommodations?

"Usually, guests are expected to cover their own accommodations, so we recommend providing a few options at a variety of price points," Albritton suggests. It's important to make this request as clear (and polite) as possible. If you've booked a hotel room block, emphasize that each guest needs to reserve their own room within it. Your wedding website and save-the-dates will be your best tools for getting the word out.

Do I need to help guests book travel?

You don't need to book anyone's travel, but it's a nice gesture to make the process easier. Enlisting a travel agent can help lighten the load by taking over group reservations, inputting everyone's travel information, and scoring the best deals. They may be able to snag upgrades and luxury treatments, too. You can also start a Facebook group or group chat, so everyone can share flight deals or make plans to travel together. Providing a wedding itinerary will keep everyone on schedule and fully informed.

Do I need a registry for a destination wedding?

Given the increased cost of attending a destination wedding, you may want to consider scrapping gifts. Use the invitations or wedding website to let everyone know that their presence is the best gift. If you prefer to have a registry, be sure to have gifts shipped to your home rather than brought to the venue, or opt for virtual gifts, like gift cards or donations to a honeymoon fund. Some resorts even have their own honeymoon registries for on-site experiences.