The Ultimate Guide to Planning Your Dream Destination Wedding: Tips, Locations, and Insider Advice
Is a Destination Wedding Right for You?
A destination wedding is perfect for the bride with guests scattered across various locations. For instance, if half of your guests have to fly to in for your local wedding, doing a destination wedding may be a great option for you!
Instead of everyone traveling to one central location, why not pick a dream destination to get married that offers beautiful scenery and a memorable experience for everyone?
It’s also ideal for couples looking to avoid the crowded summer wedding season, as weddings in tropical paradise locations during winter offer a fresh and unique escape.
Will a Destination Wedding Save You Money?
Not necessarily. While some couples save on costs by choosing an all-inclusive resort or a destination wedding package, that doesn’t guarantee it’s cheaper overall.
Many believe they’ll spend less because fewer guests can attend, but prices can still add up. However, if you do end up with a smaller guest list, your food and beverage spend will be less, making it more manageable to invest in elements like the perfect resort or dream wedding extras.
Pictured: Bride in the Marilyn One Piece & Audrey Sleeves.
Popular Destinations for 2025 Weddings
Several destinations are rising in popularity for 2025 weddings. Let’s explore the top spots:
Riviera Maya, Mexico
With stunning beaches, lush jungles, and luxurious resorts, Riviera Maya is a favorite. The beauty of this location lies in its versatility—whether you want an intimate beach ceremony or a larger celebration at one of the famous all-inclusive resorts.
Pictured: The Aurora Top & Paris Bottoms in Ivory.
Pros include affordability and world-class wedding venues. A con might be the busy tourist season, so planning your big day in the off-season could help. Let's not forget that it is also home to one of the natural wonders of the world!
There is no better destination for those who want to lay out by the pool and drink a margarita (or 3!).
Montego Bay, Jamaica
Montego Bay offers incredible beaches and resorts. It’s an ideal location if you’re looking for rich culture and an island feel.
The pros of Montego Bay include the vibrant local life and a wide range of wedding venues, but weather can be unpredictable during hurricane season.
Hawaii, USA
Known for its jaw-dropping landscapes, Hawaii is the dream wedding location for nature lovers. From volcanic mountains to stunning beaches, it’s the ultimate paradise.
However, Hawaii can be more expensive than other destinations, and the long flight may deter some people.
Nassau, Bahamas
Known for its pristine beaches and laid back lifestyle, the Caribbean is an amazing place to say "I do!" The Caribbean is a great destination for a family trip and has lots of adults only activities for those who like to have a little fun and party!
If you're looking for a reason to host your wedding out of the country and during the winter season, the Bahamas may be exactly what you're looking for!
P.S. We highly recommend avoiding the Bahamas during storm season (Summer/Fall).
Pictured: The Aurora Top in Ivory.
What to Be Aware of When Planning a Destination Wedding
Planning a destination wedding can be a dream come true, but it also comes with its challenges. One major consideration is that some people might see it as a selfish choice.
You’re essentially asking your friends and family to travel, which can be expensive and time-consuming. Some of your closest friends may not be able to attend, and that’s something you need to be comfortable with. The guest list might be smaller, but this can create a more intimate atmosphere.
Pictured: Bridesmaids in the Marilyn One Piece & Audrey Sleeves in Midnight.
Pros and Cons of Destination Weddings
There are many pros and cons to destination weddings. Let’s break them down:
Pros:
Unique Experience
Typically local weddings are a one day affair meaning you get so little time with your guests and to be frank, you likely only will get 10-15 minutes with each person on the wedding night. With a destination wedding, you have the opportunity to have a lot more quality time with everyone while hanging out at the resort.
Smaller Guest List
A smaller group can make your wedding day feel more intimate and special.
Built-In Honeymoon
Most destination weddings double as a honeymoon!
Cons:
Guest Inconvenience
Some guests may not be able to make it, which can definitely be disappointing. It is important to communicate to your guests that there is no obligation to attend the wedding.
More Expensive for your guests
Traveling is not cheap! With flights, accommodations, etc., it is likely that your destination wedding does not work with everyones budget.
Logistical Challenges
Coordinating with suppliers and planning from afar can be more difficult. You also need to be comfortable making almost all of your wedding decisions based on photos.
Pictured: Bride in the Celine One Piece in Ivory, Bridesmaids in the Celine One Piece in Midnight, and the Kendall Top & Bottom in Midnight.
Does a Destination Wedding Limit Guest Attendance?
One of the biggest challenges of hosting a destination wedding is the potential for a reduced guest list.
While that might be a pro for some couples looking for an intimate event, others might struggle with the fact that some friends and family won’t be able to attend.
Be sure to consider who you want there on your wedding day, and understand that some people may simply not be able to travel.
What are the Best Beach Wedding Venues?
Beach weddings offer breathtaking views and a laid-back vibe, making them a popular choice for destination weddings. Some top beach locations include the Caribbean islands, Mexico’s Riviera Maya, and the coastlines of Hawaii.
These wedding venues provide the perfect backdrop for romantic ceremonies, making it easier to capture stunning photos that look straight out of a romance movie.
Pictured: Bride in the Marilyn One Piece & Audrey Sleeves.
All-Inclusive Resorts for Destination Weddings
All-inclusive resorts simplify the wedding planning process by offering destination wedding packages that cover everything from the welcome event to the wedding cake.
Many couples find it easier to plan their celebration at these resorts, knowing that all the details are taken care of by a professional wedding planner. Plus, they often offer great deals for honeymoon stays right after the big day.
Pictured: Koko Iwasaki in the Celine One Piece in Ivory.
Dealing with Wedding Guest Fatigue
Hosting your wedding in a tropical destination can help you avoid wedding guest fatigue. With so many weddings happening during the summer, guests might feel exhausted from attending multiple ceremonies.
A winter or early spring destination wedding provides a refreshing break from the typical wedding season.
Do You Need a Wedding Planner for a Destination Wedding?
Hiring a wedding planner for your destination wedding is a smart choice, especially when you’re dealing with logistics like coordinating vendors, visiting venues for you, and negotiating contracts in a foreign language.
A wedding planner will know the ins and outs of the location and help alleviate any stress from planning remotely. They can also help you create a seamless and unforgettable celebration, ensuring that every detail is covered.
What About the Wedding Cake?
Yes, even for destination weddings, the wedding cake is a significant element. Some resorts offer wedding cakes as part of their destination wedding packages, while others may require you to work with local vendors.
How to Handle Guests Who Can’t Attend
One challenge of destination weddings is that not all of your guests will be able to make it. Some friends or family members may decline due to financial reasons or scheduling conflicts.
To address this, consider hosting a smaller celebration at home state for those who can’t attend. This gives them a chance to celebrate your marriage without the need to travel.
Tips for Hosting a Destination Wedding
Weather
When planning a destination wedding, remember to account for the climate. High temperatures, humidity, or even rain can affect the comfort of your guests and the overall experience.
Always have a backup plan for your ceremony and reception in case the weather doesn’t cooperate on your big day.
Hair and Makeup Trials
If you are able to visit your venue in real life, we highly recommend booking a hair and make-up trial during your visit.
Hot climates tend to make hair fall SO fast and sweat is inevitable - the last thing you want is to be disappointed with your hair and makeup at the end of the night.
Engagement Photoshoot
A lot of photographers will offer an engagement shoot for free if you hire them for your wedding!
If you are able to visit your wedding venue, planning an engagement shoot after you've done your hair and makeup trial is something you will not regret!
If the groom to be is not the most comfortable behind the camera, an engagement shoot is great practice!
What to Expect from Popular Wedding Venues in Mexico
Mexico is home to many popular venues for destination weddings, especially in regions like Riviera Maya and Cabo San Lucas.
These areas are known for their beautiful beaches, luxurious resorts, and rich culture.
Each wedding venue offers a unique charm, but it’s important to consider factors like peak tourist seasons and the availability of wedding packages.
How to Choose the Perfect Resort for Your Wedding
Choosing the perfect resort for your destination wedding is essential. You want a place that provides an unforgettable experience, from the moment you arrive to your wedding day.
Resorts with experienced wedding planners, stunning ceremony sites, and options for post-wedding relaxation should top your list.
Be sure to read reviews and consider what type of wedding package they offer to help simplify the process.
Should You Include Everyone in the Wedding Rehearsal?
For destination weddings, it’s important to include all your guests in the pre-wedding rehearsal/welcome event. This helps ensure everyone feels included in the celebration, especially after traveling a long distance.
It’s a way to make the entire wedding weekend an inclusive experience for your guests, letting them share in the excitement from start to finish.
What’s the Best Time of Year for a Destination Wedding?
The best time for a destination wedding depends on the location. If you're considering the Caribbean or Mexico, avoid hurricane season (June to November).
For couples looking to escape the cold weather, hosting a wedding between December and April provides warm weather and clear skies in many tropical destinations.
How to Infuse Local Culture into Your Destination Wedding
One of the most beautiful aspects of destination weddings is the opportunity to incorporate local culture into your celebration.
Whether it’s through the food, music, or decor, adding cultural elements from your wedding location can make your wedding even more memorable.
For example, a destination wedding in Jamaica might feature local jerk cuisine, reggae music, and tropical flowers.
Is a Beach Wedding Right for You?
Beach weddings are stunning but can come with logistical challenges. You’ll need to consider factors like wind, sand, and the heat when planning your ceremony.
Be sure to communicate with your wedding planner and venue to ensure the site is prepared for all weather possibilities.
Making Your Dream Destination Wedding a Reality
Planning a destination wedding can be both exciting and challenging. From selecting the perfect location to managing guest expectations, there are many factors to consider.
Whether you’re dreaming of saying “I do” on a tropical beach or in a luxurious resort, the key to a successful destination wedding lies in careful planning and clear communication.
By choosing a destination wedding, you’re offering your guests an unforgettable experience in a beautiful setting, but it’s important to be aware of the potential challenges.
Pictured: The Aurora Top & Paris Bottoms in Ivory.
Not everyone will be able to attend, and you’ll need to be flexible when managing the logistics from afar.
However, with the help of a professional wedding planner and a well-chosen venue, your celebration will be a reflection of your love story and the adventure that lies ahead.
Remember, this is your special day, and it’s important to create a wedding that reflects your personality and style.
Whether you're hosting a small, intimate ceremony or a grand celebration, a destination wedding offers the opportunity to make lifelong memories in a breathtaking location.
Embrace the beauty of your chosen venue and enjoy every moment of this once-in-a-lifetime experience!