Planning a Destination Wedding

Today, every couple plans to have a different and memorable wedding. Celebrities have paved the way for popularity of destination weddings. If you planning your wedding, take a look at this fabulous option of planning a destination wedding.

Planning a destination wedding requires a huge amount of research and of course, money.

Research the Details: Consider all the details before you plan a destination wedding. First of all find out what the marriage regulations are in the state, province or country you have selected. Some states require a blood test so make sure you reach several days before your guests do, in order to complete the formalities.

Legalization of your vows may require a certain number of witnesses; keep this in mind if you’re planning a “just the two of you” ceremony. If you’re marrying outside the country, do some basic research on travel to that location. Will you need a passport? Make sure you and your guests apply well in advance of your departure. Find out when the place has the best weather; you don’t want to touch down during hurricane season or have your guests melt away from excessive heat. Find the best transportation deals and pass this information along to your guests as well.

And some countries, like England, require the bride and the groom to be citizens of that country, so no chance of planning a wedding there.

Plan A Budget: Before making up your mind to have a destination wedding, plan out the expenses and see if you have that kind of money to spend. Here is the list of the few basic expenses that you can calculate:

• Transportation costs for the two of you

• Your passports

• The wedding dress and tuxedo purchase or rental

• Flowers and decoration

• Your hotel room cost

• The wedding/reception hall or other location

• The officiate (priest, minister, or other person licensed to perform legal ceremonies)

• A band, disc jockey, or professional soloist

• A photographer

Other things that you want to consider are wedding favors, a carriage or limousine ride for guests, food. See that all these things fit your budget or not.

The Wedding Events: Decide upon what you want – a theme wedding or a traditional one. If you want a traditional one then find a wedding chapel at the location you’re interested in. Some of them tend to give complete packages, which includes the photographs, floweriest, music, officiant, even license built right in. Your job is usually limited to just showing up. This is easiest, and may even be less expensive. For themed weddings, book desired venues at your destination. Most of them will come with packages, too but you might have to hunt for the perfect location.

Hire a Wedding Planner: However, if you don’t have time to consider all the factors and want to have a destination wedding then consider hiring a wedding planner based in the location in or near your destination. He or she will be familiar with the local caterers, florists, and tuxedo-rental shops, and can guide you to the perfect selections for your wedding and reception. Find out details about consultants whose primary business is working with couples from out-of-town. Talk to them; ask them to mail photos of their previous events undertaken, and taking other special steps that can help you. There are also consultants who aren’t limited to any particular wedding location, but regularly handle destination weddings.

And lastly, inform the guests much in advance. Book the hotel or inn and find out the amenities that are available on premises, and what activities the surrounding area offers so you can plan some additional events there.