Secrets to Finding the Perfect Destination Wedding Location for You
Let’s be real: picking a destination wedding location can feel a little overwhelming—like scrolling through Netflix trying to choose a movie, but with way more at stake (and probably fewer snacks). With so many breathtaking spots out there, how do you even start narrowing it down? Well, no worries—I’ve got you covered. These are the same secrets I divulge with the couples I work with for their big day.
1. Picture Your Vibe
Are you dreaming of exchanging vows with your toes in the sand, or does the idea of a lush garden setting make your heart skip a beat? Maybe you’re envisioning a sleek rooftop terrace overlooking the ocean at sunset. Start by thinking about the overall vibe you want your wedding to have—beachy and relaxed, chic and glamorous, or intimate and earthy. This is your day, and the vibe should feel like you two as a couple.
Pro Tip: Flip through Pinterest boards or Instagram tags (or your secret stash of screenshots) to get a feel for the settings that draw you in.
2. Think About Your Guests
I’ll say this over & over - Your destination wedding is about you, but it’s also worth considering the people you want by your side. Will most of your guests be able to travel long distances, or do you need a location that’s easy to get to? If you’ve got a group of party animals, a spot with vibrant nightlife might be a hit. If your crowd’s more about chill vibes, a quiet, all-inclusive resort could be the move.
Pro Tip: Choose a location with plenty of options for accommodations and activities nearby, so your guests can make the trip a mini-vacation of their own. My East Coast Natives, hang out in Cancun, Riviera Maya, or the Caribbean. My West Coast crew, Cabo or Puerto Vallarta is calling your name.
3. Work with Your Budget
Yes, you can have your dream destination wedding without breaking the bank. Some destinations are more budget-friendly than others, so research the average costs for venues, vendors, and travel in your top picks. And don’t forget to look into all-inclusive wedding packages—they often include the venue, food, drinks, and even a wedding planner!
Pro Tip: Mexico, the Dominican Republic, and Jamaica are known for their affordable wedding packages, and they’re absolutely stunning to boot.
4. Know the Weather
No one wants a hurricane or sweltering heat wave crashing their wedding. Check the typical weather for your chosen location during your preferred wedding date. For example, Mexico’s Riviera Maya has dreamy weather in January and February, while hurricane season hits in the fall.
Pro Tip: If your dream spot is in a location with unpredictable weather, consider having a backup plan, like a gorgeous indoor space or covered terrace. Some resorts will immediately book plan B while others will wait until the day of…
5. Rely on an Expert
Let’s face it—planning a destination wedding from miles (or continents) away is a lot. That’s where working with a destination wedding specialist (hi, nice to meet you!) comes in handy. We know the ins and outs of top locations, have connections with local vendors, and can help you navigate the logistics so you can actually enjoy the planning process.
Pro Tip: A travel advisor can help you score perks like group discounts, free stays, and even extra honeymoon nights on top of coordinating all your guests’ travel.
At the end of the day, the “perfect” destination is the one that feels right to you. If you can already picture yourselves saying “I do” there, it’s probably the one. Finding the perfect destination wedding location doesn’t have to feel like searching for a needle in a haystack. With these tips, you’ll narrow down your options in no time and find a spot that feels as special and unique as your love story.
If you’re ready to get started or want some expert advice, let’s chat! I’d love to help you make your destination wedding dreams come true.
