Destination Wedding Tips

It takes time to put together a destination wedding.  You and your guests will need adequate time and money to secure their accommodations and flights.  You will want to secure your date as soon as possible in the planning process.  You can always change the date if needed.  Paradise Getaways’ can handle all of this for you, saving you hours of stress and time.

Miles of white sand beaches, crystal blue waters, lush botanical gardens, exotic waterfalls,picturesque sunsets, and emerald mountains. Each exotic location in the Caribbean, Mexico, and Hawaii offer something a little different. Our Consultants will help personalize a paradise just right for you.  

To learn more about our recommended Destinations, click here. 

Would you like to be on a tropical beach, a garden gazebo, private sky wedding, or a secluded hideaway?  Most resorts have areas that are reserved for ceremonies.  There may be an area on the resort that you just fall in love with.  Your on site wedding coordinator can help you find the best location for your wedding party.  Your ceremony can be barefoot casual, a ceremony in the water, or you can have a black tie affair.  It is totally based on your preference. Our consultants will help you find the perfect location for your ceremony. 

When you are trying to set up a destination wedding budget, you need to know that the time of year, destination, and resort will all affect the price. You also need to consider your personal budget including the honeymoon portion of your travel.  Your destination wedding consultant can give you an idea of how much you may have to spend. Paradise Getaways will negotiate outstanding group rates for all of your guests and bridal party. Our consultants will give you honest advice and direction so that you will receive the best value for your budget.

Once you know your destination and budget, it will be time to decide on who you would like to be at your wedding.  There will of course be certain people, who you definitely want there, and then you can begin to decide on the others.  Keep in mind the age and health of your guests.  Some people may not be healthy enough for a long trip or a lot of walking.  Also, some of your guests may not have the financial means to go to your wedding.  Make sure that the destination and resort you have picked is a good match for those “definite” guests you would like to be there. 

When it comes to a destination wedding, quantity does not always equal quality.   When you are deciding on how many nights you would like to stay versus the money it may cost, it is usually better to stay at a quality resort for a shorter period of time, than a cheaper resort for many nights.  Room quality, food quality, service, and other amenities can vary greatly at different resorts.  Your consultant knows which resorts will give you the best value for the price.

The bride and groom can depart the ceremony to begin their honeymoon at a nearby resort, or they can stay at the resort acting as hosts.  Another idea is for the guests to leave the next day, after the wedding, with the bride and groom staying longer for their honeymoon. 

You should pack all of your valuable items in your carryon, such as your travel documents, jewelry, camera, medicines, etc. Additionally your carryon should also include sun screen, swim suits, some extra clothes and toiletries. This will help you be prepared in case you arrive to your resort before check-in or  in the unfortunate case of a luggage delay. You will want your wedding dress to be in a protective garment bag and you should bring it on the plane with you. Your consultant will help you with any questions you may have.

Your guests should pay for their vacation package to your destination.  That includes their air fare, hotel accommodations, and transfers to and from the airport.  You should pay for any activities, events, dinners, or transportation that your guests will need to go to because you have scheduled it for them.   Having your wedding at a good all inclusive resort, will include all of your food and drinks at the resort, as well as, many activities that the resort sponsors.

There are many great resorts that accommodate children and families.  Many have family and adult only areas of the resort to provide the best of both worlds.  The resorts we recommend to our clients have kids clubs and day care to allow you and your guests more time to relax. Your destination wedding specialist will guide you to the best resort for you and your guests.

You will need to know what the legal requirements are to get married at your destination. Your destination wedding consultant knows all of the legal requirements for the locations you are looking to get married at.  Many couples get married legally in the U.S. first, and then have a symbolic ceremony at their resort.  Talk with your consultant to see if a legal or symbolic ceremony is the best fit for you.