Day by day, destination weddings become more and more popular. No wonder! Who doesn’t dream of sharing vows somewhere far away in the most picturesque and romantic corners of the world? Indeed, a destination wedding is a unique celebration that combines an unforgettable adventure and a one-of-a-kind experience. However, there are a few pros and cons to consider beforehand. Well, we got your back! Check out our helpful guide to see if hosting a destination wedding is your thing.
What is a destination wedding?
A destination wedding is a wedding celebration, but with a twist. The thing is that it takes place outside of the place where a soon-to-be-married couple resides. Locations vary from another city to a completely different country! So to attend such a wedding, guests have to travel out-of-town, which means the journey might take up to at least several hours.
Dream location
Perhaps the most obvious advantage of a destination wedding is that you can host a celebration wherever your heart and desires take you. Imagine getting married in a setting you've been dreaming of for ages! A fairytale-like wedding in a European country, an exotic ceremony somewhere on tropical islands, or exchanging vows in the bustling and vibrant city of Las Vegas — the options are limitless. Regardless of the destination of your choice, you have the opportunity to make priceless memories and experience something you might have seen only in romantic movies.
Intimate celebration
Budget-wise and in terms of logistics, it might be a bit challenging for some couples to invite many people to a destination wedding. That's why soon-to-be-spouses can be a little more selective and tailor the guest list to their liking. For example, by including only family members and closest friends. Moreover, hosting a destination wedding is a perfect workaround! You don't have to feel forced to invite relatives you feel uncomfortable with. Fewer people mean less drama, which is also a big plus.
A sweet adventure
Choose a location you’ve never been to before, and the experience of a lifetime is guaranteed. A destination wedding allows couples to extend their celebration over several days rather than a few hours. So, there’s no need to rush around! By hosting a destination wedding, couples are not only able to get married in a dream-like setting but explore new places at a relaxed pace and enjoy spending more time with their friends and family. If that sounds like your type of thing, a destination wedding is an option to consider.
Stunning photos
Without a doubt, one of the most important parts of any wedding is taking wedding pictures. There is probably no better way to make memories than capturing the best moments of your life on camera. The destination wedding offers a natural and stunning backdrop for romantic photoshoots. Now finding the picture-perfect spot is easier than ever. Trust us: your wedding photographer will thank you!
Research is required
Okay, you finally decided to host a destination wedding. What’s next? Well, thorough research (sometimes a not-so-exciting one). You will have to find answers to serious questions. How to legally visit the country of your dreams? Will the marriage be recognized when you are back home? Are there any other rules and traditions you need to know? True, different countries have different rules and regulations. It is important to think through every little detail, or else there is a high chance of getting into trouble. Be careful, and don't hesitate to reach out for help!
Language barriers
While planning a destination wedding, be ready for some challenges along the way. One of the most obvious — is communication problems. When choosing a destination wedding, the language barrier is what you need to consider above anything else. Though it’s not a deal-breaker for some, it still requires time and patience to find a skillful interpreter who will assist you whenever you need help.
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Planning process
Things can get complicated! You will have to do all of your coordination and logistics from afar. If you are miles away from your dream location, dealing with vendors and venue scouting might become a pretty tricky task. However, don't be discouraged, as some venues provide wedding planning professionals on-site, so let them make the arrangements on your behalf. Yes, it will require a bigger budget, but guarantee a stress-free experience.
Guests might not make it
True, there’s a possibility that some of your guests might politely decline the invitation. Traveling to a distant location might interfere with their packed daily life schedule. They will need to take time off work, make different arrangements, obtain travel documents if required, and just reconsider a ton of other obligations. Plus, attending a wedding at a distant location places a financial burden on the guests, such as payment for travel and accommodation. Unless, however, a couple who is getting married takes all of these expenses into their own hands.
Be brave
A destination wedding is a one-of-a-kind experience, perfect for couples who love fresh concepts, experimenting, and being adventurous. Though it has its pros and cons, a destination wedding is something truly unique and worth considering as an alternative to a traditional ceremony. Weigh everything carefully, and remember: the choice is yours!
