1. Listen to your "VIP list"
Before you put too much time and effort into planning your dream Destination Wedding on that perfect beach somewhere you need to run your plans by some of your guests. Don't feel that you have to please everyone, but you should at least mention having a Destination Wedding to those guests that you wouldn't get married without. As long as they are up for the adventure, then you know that you can dive into the planning process full throttle.
2. Choose your own adventure:
The best part about Destination Weddings is that each one is unique, and there is no formal plan that you are expected to follow. You and your fiancé are unique, as are the circumstances that brought you together. Get in the unique mindset right from the start and plan your Destination Wedding accordingly. It's your dream…make it reality!
3. Location, location, location:
Just because you and your fiancé are on the West Coast and have always dreamed of going to Fiji doesn't mean that it's the best spot for your wedding. Consider where your guests are coming from as well. Your best friend on the East Coast may not appreciate that 20+hour flight!
4. Cater to your party crowd:
Nothing suits a Destination Wedding party group like an all-inclusive resort where all food and drinks are included. This is not only enjoyed by seasoned travelers that enjoy being able to relax completely, but also by novice travelers who don't have to worry about how much money to bring, where to eat out, etc.
5. Early and often:
Traditional weddings usually have set timelines that couples are supposed to follow in regards to Save the Dates and formal invitations. Since there is no formal etiquette guide for Destination Weddings, use this to your advantage - keep your guests "in the loop" from the beginning. You can let them know a year in advance that you are going to have a Destination Wedding somewhere and you'll forward info when you figure it out. This helps guests plan ahead for vacation time, budgets, etc. From there you can let everyone in on your plans as they come together (actual date, actual location, how to make reservations, formal invites, etc.).
And finally, unless you enjoy a challenge - find someone that specializes in planning Destination Weddings to help you through the process. It is possible to plan a Destination Wedding on your own, and some couples enjoy doing so. However there are experts that can make it a lot less stressful for you and your guests, and their experience is priceless when you are talking about such an important event.
For more information, and to download a free report on planning a successful Destination Wedding, visit DestinationWeddings.com by clicking here: Destination Weddings.
