Introduction: Congratulations on your engagement! Now that you’ve decided to embark on the adventure of a destination wedding. This is my destination wedding planner guide that will take you through every step of the process, from choosing the ideal location, and tips for each stage in your planning process.

12-18 Months in Advance: Dreaming and Deciding

Destination wedding planner Guide from a destination wedding photographer

1. Budgeting: Determine your budget early on. Consider factors like travel costs, accommodation, venue fees, and extras like décor and entertainment. A few things to consider when choosing your wedding Venue abroad, is does your venue have on site accommodation for your guests.
2. Research: Start researching potential locations. Consider factors like climate, accessibility, legal requirements for marriage, and local attractions for your guests. Pinterest is a great place for inspiration, I share lots of ideas over here.
3. Set Dates: Choose a few potential dates, keeping in mind the availability of venues and guests’ schedules.It is also worth keeping in mind summer months may be hotter and more expensive especially on the weekends.
4. Hire a Planner: Consider hiring a destination wedding planner who specializes in your desired location. They can offer invaluable expertise and connections.
5. Create a Vision Board: Gather inspiration from wedding magazines, Pinterest, and Instagram to create a vision board for your dream destination wedding.

Here are a few photos from destination weddings in Pergia i have photographed for insporation

10 months in advance to your destination wedding-booking and securing your destination wedding Venue

1. Finalise the Location: Choose your dream location and book the venue(s) for the ceremony and reception. Check if you can have your ceremony and reception at your venue, it saves a lot of stress and hassle for your guests, getting transport from one location to the next.

2. Guest List: Finalise your guest list and send out save-the-date cards to give guests plenty of time to plan and budget for the trip and planning their wedding trip abroad.
3. Vendors: Research and book vendors such as photographers, florists, caterers, and entertainment. Do get in touch to find out about my destination wedding services here.
4. Legalities: Research the legal requirements for getting married in your chosen destination. This may include obtaining marriage licenses or fulfilling residency requirements.

This beautiful destination wedding had a lovely sunset and was in Costello di Petrata in Assisi, Italy.

8 Months to Final Few Months: Details and Logistics

Accommodation: Secure room blocks at hotels or resorts for your guests. Consider a range of options to accommodate different budgets.

1.Transportation: Arrange transportation options for you and your guests, such as airport transfers and shuttles to the wedding venue.

2.Wedding Attire: Begin shopping for your wedding attire and attire for the bridal party. Keep in mind the climate and dress code of your destination.

3. Décor and Details: Plan and order décor elements such as flowers, centerpieces, and signage. Consider shipping items in advance or working with local vendors.
4. RSVPs and Final Details: Collect RSVPs from guests and finalize details such as seating arrangements, menus, and timelines.

Useful tips for couples planning a destination wedding

4. Communication is Key: Keep your guests informed every step of the way, from travel arrangements to wedding day logistics.
5. Embrace the Local Culture: Incorporate elements of the destination’s culture into your wedding, from cuisine to music and traditions.
6. Plan for the Unexpected: Have a backup plan for outdoor ceremonies in case of inclement weather, and consider purchasing wedding insurance for peace of mind.
7. Delegate Tasks: Enlist the help of trusted friends and family members to assist with tasks like welcome bags, airport pickups, and guest coordination.
8. Take Time for Yourselves: Amidst the hustle and bustle of wedding planning, take moments to connect with your partner and savor the journey together.
9. Ask your venue if they have a co ordinator who will help with the smooth run of your wedding day. Ask your venue if they recommend a wedding planner to help plan your day.

Conclusion: I hope that this destination wedding planner guide was useful, remember planning a destination wedding is an exciting journey that requires careful preparation and attention to detail. For more tips feel free to check out this blog here. If your looking for a documentary, relaxed and story telling photographer do get in touch, I would love to hear about your plans.I am offering a free consultation call with couples planning their destination wedding, this is where I can give advice and suggestions on locations and tips for planning your wedding, do get in touch if your interested.