Hey, hey! You’ve got the ring, and now it’s time to start thinking about where to tie the knot. 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. Destination weddings appeal to many couples, but before you go planning the big day from a distance – read these Destination Wedding Planning Mistakes to Avoid. 

Don’t Assume Everyone Will Attend

Destination weddings can be hard to swing for some people, whether it’s financial restraints, young children, work commitments etc. Work under the assumption that you may only see 75% of your guest list RSVP ‘yes’.

Destination Wedding Planning Mistake to Avoid – Don’t NOT Work with a Professional

I’m not talking about the on-site coordinator, if you go for a resort that has one. I mean hiring a proper destination wedding specialist, who knows the ins and outs of planning a wedding from afar. Call me biased, but having a professional who can seamlessly guide you from the initial planning stages to the big day (and even the post-wedding activities) will save you time, money, and stress. And who wants to be a stressed-out bride on her big day? You deserve to sit back and relax. 

Don’t Underestimate the Weather (Especially in the Caribbean!)

Humidity and a lot of hair types do not mix well together. The last thing you want on your big day is for your hair to not cooperate, after all – those pictures last a lifetime! In addition to hair woes, heavy dresses, makeup, sweat mixed with self-tanner – these can all be recipes for disaster in a hot climate. Consider having your wedding later in the day, invest in hair products to combat humidity, and suggest that your groom (and/or groomsmen) swap their three-piece suits for linen instead. 

Don’t Overlook Traditions – Both Home & Away

Just because you’re in a unique locale doesn’t mean you need to forego family traditions. Do what you can (or want) to honor family history – wherever you’re saying ‘I Do’. Depending on where you’re getting married, it can also be special to incorporate local traditions and influences to your nuptials. Getting married in Mexico? Consider a Mariachi band for cocktail hour.

Destination Wedding Planning Mistake to Avoid – Don’t Assume You Will Automatically Save Money

Can you save money having a destination wedding? Absolutely, but that’s a different post for a different day. Just like at home, your budget can fluctuate. It will be determined by location, suppliers, food served, and number of invited guests. Hot tip: Booking early can often score you better deals. If you think a destination wedding is something you’d like to do – feel free to get in touch.

Don’t Make Anyone Guess Anything 

Weddings come with a whole slew of questions, from ‘what time does it start?’ to ‘what is the appropriate attire?’. Destination weddings come with at least triple the questions, so take the guesswork out of the event for your guests – and build a wedding website where all of the important information can live – and be updated as you near the big day. From wedding details to accommodation options, flight info, and even local activities in the area – house all of the relevant wedding information in one spot – and never worry about answering the same question over and over again!

Destination Wedding Planning Mistake to Avoid – Don’t Ship Anything

While there’s a good chance your shipped items will arrive, don’t run the risk. Anything especially valuable should go in your carry-on or be checked (ie your dress, rings, etc). The last thing you want to be dealing with on (or leading up to) your big day is missing wedding favors, dresses, or damaged goods. 

Don’t Rule Out Suppliers from Home

Have a favorite makeup artist or photographer? Most are willing to travel, so if budget allows, bring them along. So many of my brides get anxious about utilizing the resort or local vendors for hair and makeup, so skip the stress, and bring a trusted artist from home. Or just ask me for a list of our vetted vendors in destination to put your mind at ease. Same goes for photography. Have someone you love, knows your style & quirks? Don’t hesitate on bringing them along to capture the entire celebration. Just don’t forget to check on outside vendor fees with your resort. These typically range from $500 to $2000 per vendor.

Don’t Forget to Have Fun

Your wedding day goes by in a blur, so try to take some moments to stop and soak it all in. From the friends and family who have traveled to celebrate you to the exchanging of vows in a stunning location, this day is about you and your love – so enjoy it!

Want to avoid these Destination Wedding Planning Mistakes? 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.