The journey to saying ‘I Do’ is never easy, but add in the logistics of a destination Wedding and it can make the bumpy ride even more turbulent. With your never ending to-do list, it can be easy to overlook some details, so we’ve listed the 9 most common mistakes Brides make when they’re planning their dream destination Wedding.
Table of Contents
1. Forgetting the Guests
Your guests will be traveling from near and far to help celebrate your Big Day, so it’s important to take extra care of them. Even if you’re in a foreign country, it’s still your job to be the ‘hostess with the mostest’, so try and consider giving them a Wedding survival gift bag, make sure they’ve got information about the local activities and organise their transport to and from the Wedding ceremony and reception.
2. Saying ‘No’ to a Wedding Planner
Honestly, Fairies, if you’re having a destination Wedding, you should consider a Wedding planner. They will be a life-saver when it comes to local currency, bartering, suppliers and assisting with any permits or licenses you might need while you’re over there.
3. You Have a Traditional Gift Registry
Gift registries are a great way to make sure you don’t end up 30 sets of towels that you don’t want (or need); however, if you’re having a destination Wedding, make sure you ask guests to arrange for their gift to be delivered after the Big Day. Receiving hundreds of dollars of kitchenware and appliances is going to be inconvenient to store in your hotel room and the cost of all the excess baggage will set you back. Alternatively, consider having a wishing well or money tree instead of a registry.
4. You Overlook the Bridal Party
Your Bridal party have likely spent more than $1,000 on your Wedding when you consider the Wedding gift, their outfit, flights, accommodation and meals; so make sure you let them know how much you appreciate it by giving them an extra special gift.
5. You Don’t Get Insurance
Never underestimate the importance of travel insurance, especially when you’re transporting big ticket items like your Wedding gown and Wedding rings.
6. You Try to DIY
If you’re looking to have a DIY Wedding, complete with home-made decorations, a destination Wedding is not for you. Not only is it difficult to transport all of your handiwork, but it can get damaged on the way.
7. You Don’t Consider Climate
The weather affects so many elements of your Wedding, from whether you can have an outdoor ceremony, to how you should style your hair and makeup. Do you research before you leave and find out the average temperature, rainfall and humidity.
8. The Legalities
When you’re getting Married in a foreign country, you need to make sure you’ve checked the requirements. You might need to bring along you birth certificates, as well as your passports to complete the ceremony.
9. You’re Late to the Party
If you’re having a destination Wedding, the most important thing is to book well in advance. Flights, hotels and even your venue can book out quickly, especially if you’re traveling during holiday season, so make sure you pay the deposits early and give your guests plenty of notice.
Images from Fiona and Tom’s Wedding. Photography by Steve and Sally Photography.
