Hey, hey! With destination weddings making a strong comeback here are the destination wedding trends I am seeing for 2025! From intimate elopements to lavish cross-border celebrations, more couples are choosing to say “I Do” in breathtaking locations.
If you’re new here, I’m Dana! Known for feeling all the feels and striking up convos with strangers because I love stories. And of course, I’m known for helping make magical destination weddings for clients who deserve nothing but the best. In fact, my team and I have helped travelers embark on their dream destination weddings since 2015.
This surge in popularity is driven by travel-hungry couples eager for a reason to celebrate and escape. Let’s explore some of the hottest trends we’ll be seeing in destination weddings for 2025 and beyond.
Natural Elements
Forget dramatic chandeliers and extra-large pieces of statement décor. We’re seeing more and more the incorporation of natural elements (wood, greenery, etc) with minimal décor and lighting, so as not to detract from the surroundings. Bonus: This is often a more economical option than renting a large amount of décor.
2025 Destination Wedding Trend: Experiences over Trinkets
We’ve all seen the baskets of flip-flops, the monogrammed drink umbrellas, and the like. Couples are saying no to these favors at an increasing rate and opting instead for experiences that their family and wedding party can enjoy together. Activities like a sunset catamaran sailing, poolside brunch over mimosas & breakfast tacos, or a Mayan fire dancers all give guests (and the bride and groom) memories that will last far longer than flip-flops.
All in the Customized Details
Couples are opting for every opportunity to lean into customization. From stationery to signage and even utilizing their loved ones favorite florals or foods, couples are taking time to thoughtfully curate every detail. Some of my couples are even honoring their favorite furry friends with custom cocktails, like Faith & Colton did with the “Ranger ‘Rita“.
Private Venues are Trending for Destination Weddings in 2025
While all-inclusive resorts still tend to rule when it comes to destination weddings, more couples are choosing to exclusively buy out a smaller resort for their use. Providing intimacy, safety, and a feeling of exclusivity, a private venue also ensures that the attention and service will solely be focused on the couple and their guests, and no one else.
Elopements
Want to take it back to basics? Just you and your love, exchanging vows somewhere special to you both. Elopements took off in a big way during Covid. They are still going strong with many couples opting to take the fuss out of their big day.
Small but Spectacular
Forget inviting 200 people to Cancun. Think 35 people jetting off to Italy instead. Couples are opting to combine a few trends (micro-weddings, high-end luxury, experiential travel) into one. They do this by orchestrating fabulous, over-the-top wedding affairs that are equal parts deluxe getaway and destination wedding. And DWD is leaning in this trend, adding European destination weddings to our offerings!
What 2025 destination wedding trend would you like to latch on to but don’t know where to start? Discover more about what I do as a professional destination wedding & travel designer. Or skip to the good part and book your complimentary consultation call with me now.
