Opting for a destination wedding is ideal for some
couples. It typically means a small guest list, comprised of immediate family
and very close friends, so this kind of affair lends to a more intimate approach.
It also acts as a mini-getaway for the bride, groom, and all parties involved, therefore
extending the festivities for more than just one day.
Mr. Z and I initially had our hearts set on having a
destination wedding. We visited multiple venues in multiple cities around
Canada and the US, before coming full circle and tying the knot in our
hometown. I simply love the idea of jet setting with your nearest and dearest
and getting hitched, but there are several important factors to keep in mind
when choosing this type of shindig.
Budget
A destination budget must remain considerate of the “when
and where”. While the actual affair might be less expensive than a city wedding
(less guests equals lower costs on food and drink, entertainment, décor, etc),
the rate of “getting there” can be quite pricey. The chosen location could require
airfare and costly lodging accommodations. Popular vacation spots have certain times
of year that are identified as ‘peak season’, where hotel rates become higher
than usual and sometimes, there’s a minimum night’s stay (if you’re not
intending to subsidize, it’s important to be mindful of your guests
and the costs they’ll incur in order to attend). It’s also essential to visit
the site prior to the actual event, to meet with coordinators and staff, scout
out the grounds and ensure it’s the right for you, and so this extra trip should
be factored into the budget as well.
Time
Planning a destination wedding requires a lot of lead
time for both the happy couple and invited guests. It’s a good idea to send out 'save-the-date' cards at least six to eight months in advance, giving people
ample time to book off work and make necessary travel arrangements.
Ceremony and Reception
Once you’ve nailed down the date and place, it’s crucial
to find out the specifics of your chosen location. Is there a wedding
coordinator at the hotel? What sort of wedding packages are available and what
exactly is included (food, bar, flowers, etc)? Will you be bringing along an officiant
for the ceremony, and if not, is there one available that meets your religious or
spiritual needs? Is there a hairstylist and makeup artist on site? What sort of
options are there for entertainment? Make sure all these questions are
answered.
Whether it’s a fun in the sun island adventure, or a ski
retreat surrounded by snow capped mountains, a destination wedding is a unique and very
special way to say I do! Stay tuned for upcoming posts dedicated to destination
wedding extravaganzas.
Sincerely,
S
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