Common Mistakes in Planning a Destination Wedding
Once you’ve made the decision to have a destination wedding, the planning stages begin! Even if you’re using a trusted destination wedding planner and/or working with inclusive packages, there are still pitfalls that can add stress to your special day.
So, as you move forward with planning your destination wedding, keep these potential mistakes in mind.
Doing your best to avoid these problems, and knowing about them in advance, will help you stay on track to have an enjoyable, smooth celebration with your loved ones and spouse-to-be!
Mistakes to Avoid When Planning a Destination Wedding
Overlooking Legal Requirements
First and foremost, it’s important to do things the right away – especially when it comes to following the law! Be sure to ask plenty of questions as you select locations to see if you’ll need permits, licenses, or other documentation to hold an event. For example, the scenic beach where you want to exchange vows may require a permit for gatherings or setting up decorations – and overlooking this critical step could derail the whole ceremony. Be sure to check with the venue, wedding planner and other important people who know the local requirements.
Similarly, make a plan for your marriage license! Look into the legality or requirements of licensing in your destination country, how that applies to your home nation, and consider whether you should keep the destination wedding ceremonial, handling the legal side in a local courthouse.
Not Enough Notice for Guests
To make sure your guests can attend your destination wedding, give them plenty of time to plan! People have busy lives, and going on a trip – especially internationally – means taking time off work, securing passports and plane tickets, and all kinds of other travel prep.
There’s no exact rule for how much notice you should give, but as soon as you solidify your destination and date, it’s a good idea to start reaching out to friends and family you want to invite. If you wait too long, some of your closest friends and family might not be able to attend!
Too Much DIY
No two destination weddings are exactly the same. If you’re already familiar with your destination, are particularly fond of organizing your own events, and have the time to dedicate, a “do it yourself” approach to some of the planning may be just fine. However…
Many people make the mistake of taking on too much themselves, thinking they can handle it all, or neglecting to lean on professional expertise. Sometimes you don’t know what you don’t know.
Even if you want to do some of the planning yourself, consulting with a destination wedding planner will keep you from overlooking key components or getting overloaded with tasks. Using travel agency destination wedding packages, letting local vendors do what they do best, and leaving some details to the pros will all alleviate stress and make sure you truly enjoy your wedding!
Not Accounting for Uncontrollable Factors
This last “mistake” is pretty broad, but is no less important than the others. While you may not be able to control the weather, travel delays, staffing shortages, and so on, you CAN prepare for them – both practically and mentally.
First, understand that things might not go as planned. Just preparing for a little flexibility can put you at ease if something goes wrong. Once you have it in your head that things could go wrong (though hopefully, they won’t), you’ll be able to react with action and poise instead of stress and panic.
Practically, you can also work with your planner, venue, and so on to have some contingency plans in place. Alternative locations for your ceremony or reception (especially if outside activities are preferred), how to deal with travel delays, and even what you can do if your checked bags don’t show are all issues that you might have to deal with. Preparing for all of these possibilities will let you roll with the punches and have a great time, even if factors beyond your control try to prevent it.
Enlist the help of an expert travel agency!
Talk to your travel agency and destination wedding planner about other ways to prepare as well! The challenges of planning a destination wedding shouldn’t hinder your decision.
Make sure you avoid these big mistakes as you plan your destination wedding. The overall success of your trip, celebration, and surrounding vacation depend on your preparation and flexibility. Don’t forget to have fun in the process, and soak up the memories of your big day.
To start planning your destination wedding with inclusive packages and full scope service, contact Sunset Travel & Cruise today for a free consultation.