Dreaming of a wedding in a gorgeous, tropical location? A destination wedding doesn’t have to break the bank, but there are several factors you should keep in mind during your planning in order to keep costs in check. The Budget Savvy Bride offers these helpful tips:
- Talk Budget Early
Budget is, of course, critical when planning any wedding, but especially so when planning a destination wedding. Determine how much you can spend on your wedding, and stick to that number when determining where to hold your nuptials. If your parents are helping with your wedding expenses, involve them early in your planning. - Use a Travel Agent
We highly recommend working with a travel agent when planning a destination wedding. While it’s possible to make all of the arrangements yourself, travel agents have extensive knowledge of many popular destinations, and have access to travel deals you may not be able to get on your own. In the end, a great travel agent will save time, stress, and money (both for you and your guests). - Go Easy on the Honeymoon
Many couples opt to stay in the destination where their wedding is held in order to save some money on their honeymoon. This is a great way to save on additional travel expenses, as well as take advantage of any cost reductions your resort might offer if you hold your wedding there as well. - Don’t Forget Your Bridal Party
It’s not a true “rule,” but traditionally, the bride has covered the cost of lodging for her side of the party, and the groom for his. If you can afford to do so, it’s a nice way to take the financial pressure off of your closest friends and family members. This is also a reason that you may want to limit the size of your bridal party. You don’t want to put anyone in the uncomfortable position of feeling they have to travel to stand up in your wedding, even if they can’t afford to do travel there. - Keep the Seasons in Mind
If you have your heart set on a specific date for your wedding (and anniversary), that can impact your choice of wedding destination. For example, planning a Florida wedding during hurricane season may be a risk you don’t want to take. If you are flexible with your dates, you can opt to wed during off-peak season, resulting in significant savings in travel costs for you and your guests. - Choose your Attire Based on Your Destination
Planning a casual beachside affair? Make sure your style of dress reflects that. And be sure that you’ve chosen clothing that travels well – not every formal wedding gown will. - Figure Out Your Marriage Paperwork Ahead of Time
Different countries have different rules and regulations regarding what is needed in order for a legal marriage to occur. For example, some countries require that a couple be in-country for a certain period of time before they can be married. To make things simpler, you may want to get legally married at your hometown courthouse before you travel, and then hold your ceremony in-destination. That way, you avoid any pitfalls and extra legal expenses that can occur with marrying in certain countries. - Don’t Forget Shipping Costs
If there are specific items you want to ship to your wedding destination ahead of time, don’t forget to budget for those costs. That goes for people, too. If you have your heart set on having your favorite hairdresser create your wedding up do, you should pay for her flight and hotel stay.
