Imagine exchanging vows in a dream-like locale. Will your destination wedding be on a tropical beach, with aqua-hued waves lapping at the shore? Or will it be set in front of snow-capped mountain peaks? Or perhaps, you’ll get married in a medieval castle, set on the shores of an ancient Loch?
A Destination Wedding is a fabulous choice if you want to get married in photo-worthy locales. But there are a few things you need to think about during the planning process. Here are six tips to help you choose a destination that you and your guests will love.
Think about the seasons
Prices can change dramatically between high and low season. Try to keep the seasons in mind when choosing your date.
Choose a destination that’s right for you
Would you prefer a beach? A castle? Or perhaps a vineyard? How about the place where you proposed?
Speak to your travel agent about wedding license agreements
As we explained above, destinations have different wedding license requirements, so check this first before you set your heart on a particular location.
Consider how easy or difficult it is to get to your destination
Will your guests need to drive or fly? Are ticket costs very expensive?
If children are attending
If children are attending, avoid choosing an adults-only resort for your wedding. If there are nearby resorts catering to families check if there will be a fee for guests to attend your wedding if they aren’t staying on property.
Wedding Tip: Add some local customs to your ceremony or reception! Fire dancers in Hawaii, tango dance lessons in Argentina. Or how about a mariachi band in Mexico?
Decide whether you want a symbolic, legal and/or a religious ceremony
Not sure which one is best for you?
A legal or civil ceremony in a destination outside of the United States requires some extra work to be legally recognized in the United States.
Requirements vary from country to country. Some might require additional paperwork, documentation, arrival to the destination a certain number of days before the ceremony, or blood tests.
Symbolic ceremonies, the latest trend for destination weddings outside of the United States, feel just like a legal ceremony. They can include everything from a walk down the aisle with your father giving your away to having a celebrant.
There is less of a hassle with symbolic ceremonies, as you don’t have to abide by your destination’s legal requirements. However, your ceremony won’t be a legally recognized marriage. You’ll complete your marriage license in the United States before or after your trip.
You’ll also want to decide if you want a faith-based wedding. Resorts throughout the world offer ceremonies that respect your religious and cultural roots. Whether you want a Jewish or Indian ceremony, or a Catholic wedding, for example, you can honor your traditions and customs.
For same-sex weddings, your travel agent will check that the country or destination you desire allows legal ceremonies for same-sex couples. The list grows every year!
