Tips & Advice
Perceived to be an expensive and very luxurious idea for a wedding at first, destination weddings can prove to be luxurious without overspending. Not only would it serve as the perfect getaway for you and your partner’s Big Day, it could be perfect for your guests too. But planning a destination wedding can be very tough with few resources and information. The tips below can help you.
Identify your Budget
Decide on your budget and work on it. Estimate amounts needed for your particular wedding needs like wedding accessories, travel, accommodation and reception. More guests always means higher expenses. Adjust your preferences based on it. Of course you should never settle for a cheaper destination at the expense of your dream wedding. Stretch your budget if necessary, maximize it.
You can still have your destination wedding even with a tight budget. Mexico weddings remain very affordable especially for some reluctant guests. The shorter travel time from the US guarantees convenience and affordability. A wedding at Cancun, Mexico can provide you and your guests the perfect tropical paradise without having to travel halfway around the globe.
When and Where?
Choosing your wedding destination may be the most crucial decision that you would have to make for your wedding. Choose the only place that feels right for your Big Day. Be sure to have checked and researched all the possible areas that you want before settling for a particular destination. If you can, visit the place before your wedding date to allow time for adjustments.
Choosing the right season for your destination wedding can ensure you a disaster-free wedding, literally. If you have a Caribbean summer wedding in mind, consider Aruba which is less susceptible to hurricanes. Particular times of the year could also mean cheaper packages for your wedding. Prices may vary during peak seasons. Be sure to pick the season that would rightfully complement your destination.
Compare wedding requirements
Never assume. Things that work at home may work differently at your destination. Some countries require additional marriage requirements like residency period and other documents. Getting married in Cancun differs from getting married in St. Lucia at the Caribbean. In some parts of Mexico, strict requirements like blood and X-ray tests as well as prenuptial agreements are needed before issuing a marriage license. You may want to first check the rules that apply in your destination before making further arrangements. Decide whether the place is worth going through all the hassle of preparing the required documents. But you can always ask your coordinator to do this for you to save yourself the trouble.
Book your flights early
Your flight should be booked the earliest time. Better be early to have ample time for adjustments. Your wedding coordinator can help you with your bookings. They usually have other business connections which could offer you and your guests cheaper travel and resort packages.
But you can also check and book flights online by visiting various websites that would cater to your needs. Travel websites offer cheaper packages that could benefit you and your guests. Some of the sites that you can visit are http://www.travelocity.com, http://www.orbitz.com, http://www.travelzoo.com, and http://www.kayak.com. Again, the Internet offers endless possibilities.
What to bring
Transporting your wedding accessories to and from your wedding destination may pose to be a great risk. You may be consciously aware that your luggage may be misplaced and end up wearing nothing for your special day.
Your wedding gown would probably be the most important among the things that you have to bring to your destination (except yourself of course). If you’re thinking about it being crumpled or misplaced, you can always ask flight attendants if they have a room or closet for your dress.
For your wedding suitcase, bring clothes that would easily complement each other. Pack tightly to avoid wrinkles on your clothes. Avoid packing clothes and shoes you’ve never worn before lest you end up not wearing them at all. Have an extra bag for your toiletries and important things together just in case your suitcase gets delayed. Another extra bag (usually foldable) would be ideal to bring for take-home goodies.
Anticipate mishaps
Anticipate errors and minor problems. Though thoroughly planned, some things can still go wrong. Put together an SOS kit, with needle and thread, stain remover, safety pins, and band-aids. Always have a back-up plan and have room for more patience. Allowances on your budget, time and other resources can help you continue smiling on your Big Day even with a few mishaps. |
