2021 became one of the busiest years for weddings ever.In fact, 35% of couples that planned a wedding in 2021 moved their wedding ceremony or reception outdoors. Imagine saying, “I do,” with rushing waves, stunning foliage, or a waterfall within sight.
You don’t have to imagine it! Instead, consider planning a destination wedding this year.
With this destination wedding checklist, you can remain organized and efficient while planning the perfect day. You can choose a beautiful venue for the ceremony, travel to a beautiful island, and bask in the celebration.
Eager to get started? Keep reading this destination wedding guide to discover everything you need to do before your big day.
12 to 16 Months Before
First, take a deep breath. Remember, using these destination wedding tips will help you remain organized. Instead of tackling everything at once, break your wedding checklist into smaller tasks.
Try to get started as soon as possible, too. The sooner you begin planning, the more likely you’ll avoid potential hiccups.
Establish a Budget
Before anything else, take the time to work out your wedding budget.
Sit down with your fiance and discuss the big day. Since it’s a destination wedding, you might need to increase your initially perceived budget.
The average wedding costs about $19,000.
First, determine an overall budget. Then, break down each item on your wedding expenses list and determine how much you’re willing to spend. For example, you might consider:
- $10,500 for the reception venue
- $800 for transportation
- $1,000 for the dress/attire
- $300 on hair and makeup
- $1,500 on a wedding/event planner
- $2,000 on a florist
- $2,400 for a photographer
- $1,800 for a videographer
- $500 for the cake
- $70/per person for catering
- $1,200 for a DJ
Look for ways you can save money while working through this destination wedding checklist, too.
Set a minimum and maximum when planning your guest list. For example, you might want to consider trimming the guest list. Cutting about 10 people could save you $1,000.
Instead of using professionals for your hair and makeup, consider having a family member handle it.
You can also seek off-peak season deals to save money.
Hire a Planner and Travel Agent
About 1,015,603 weddings occurred in the U.S. within the span of a single year. With so many other couples getting ready, you might struggle to book venues and vendors. Instead of handling it all alone, consider requesting help.
Consider hiring a wedding planner. Hiring a professional will help you remain efficient. It can also help you avoid unnecessary stress.
Consider hiring a travel agent as well. Many agencies specialize in destination weddings.
They can help you find a location that suits your wedding vision.
They can also help by negotiating with venues to help you find upgrades, perks, and better pricing.
Consider the Venue and Date
Take the time to secure your wedding venue right away. Determine when you want your special day to occur. Everything else will revolve around the venue and date.
You can work with your wedding planner and travel agent to discuss your options.
Make sure to get any details and contracts in writing. If necessary, send the deposit at this point.
If you can, try to take a pre-wedding trip to visit the venues in person. You can also check online for customer reviews.
Don’t forget to talk about your marriage license options. Marriage requirements can vary based on the country. Consider looking into the requirements based on your venue.
9 to 11 Months Before
As your special day grows near, there is still a lot to do. Consider enlisting friends and family to help you through your wedding checklist.
Recruit the Wedding Party
Recruit your wedding party and make sure everyone has their passports ready. They should have any other documents needed to travel prepared, too.
At this point, you can also start sending out save the dates. Save the dates will help your guests plan their own arrangements.
Create the Guest List
Start planning your guest list right away. Determine how many guests you’re inviting to make sure you’re not going over budget.
Consider creating a wedding website that lists details regarding accommodations and travel. You can add local maps and airport information, too.
At this point, you can also create your gift registry. Remember, your guests are already traveling to attend. You might want to indicate their presence is a gift enough.
Find the Dress and Tux
Consider where the ceremony and reception will take place. Start searching for the perfect dress and tux right away. Choose styles that suit the venue and theme.
6 to 8 Months Before
There is still tons to do before the big day. Make sure to keep communicating with your planner as you work through these destination wedding tips.
Take Photos
If you want, consider taking engagement photos. You can share these photos on your wedding website before the big day.
Create the Menu
Work with the caterer to create your wedding menu. You might not get the chance to taste everything beforehand, though. Keep that in mind while choosing dishes.
Schedule Rehearsals and Fittings
Book your rehearsal and rehearsal dinner locations. Otherwise, consider scheduling a pre-wedding event for your guests.
Order Invitations
Give your guests plenty of time to RSVP. Your wedding invitations can also direct them to the wedding website for more information.
Book Vendors
Work with your wedding planner to make sure you have the vendors all set, including the following:
- Officiant
- Florist
- DJ or band
- Hairstylist/makeup artists
- Videographer/photographer
- Rentals and linens
- Cakemaker
Make sure to review every contract. Book wedding-day transportation, too.
6 to 8 Weeks Before
Everything’s coming to a head! In the weeks before the wedding:
- Finalize the guest list
- Schedule informal recreational activities
- Purchase rings and accessories
- Finalize honeymoon plans
Make sure to finalize the flight and hotel, too. Get any necessary vaccines you need to travel as well.
Make sure you have your legal documents (birth certificates, passports, visas, etc.) ready to go, too.
1 to 2 Weeks Before
Start packing. In the weeks before the big day, make sure to:
- Confirm flight numbers and arrival times
- Pick up the dress and tux
- Finalize seating arrangements
- Create a wedding emergency kit
- Check the weather report
- Begin packing for the wedding and honeymoon
Then, get on a plan and prepare for your big day!
The Perfect Day: Your Ultimate Destination Wedding Checklist
Planning the perfect destination wedding shouldn’t feel stressful. Instead, use this destination wedding checklist to remain organized. Remember, you don’t have to work through it alone.
Turn your big day into a fun, exciting moment to remember!
Contact our team today to get started.
Wedding Details is your comprehensive guide to all aspects of your wedding. From traditional ceremonies to questions regarding the guests, our website offers you one place to do all your research.