10/30/25

The Best Time to Start Planning Your 2027 Wedding (Hint: It’s Sooner Than You Think)

bride and groom walking on thebeach during their destination wedding

If you’re newly engaged and thinking about planning your 2027 wedding, you’re probably hearing two things at once. One: you have plenty of time. Two: you should start early. The truth is, both can be true, but only if you define what “starting early” actually looks like.

At DWD Travel, I work with couples who start planning at all different stages. But the ones who give themselves more time almost always end up with more options, less stress, and a smoother experience from start to finish. If you’re dreaming about a destination wedding in 2027, don’t wait for things to “feel real.” Starting now gives you options, flexibility, and peace of mind.

Follow along on Instagram for real guest experience inspiration. And when the time feels right, reach out, I’m here to help you plan a celebration that’s thoughtful, fun, and true to you.

Large “Marry Me” sign on the beach at sunset, perfect for planning your 2027 wedding proposal.

Engaged Now and Planning for Later but Don’t Wait Too Long

It’s easy to feel like a 2027 wedding is far off. Maybe you just got engaged and want to soak up this season before diving into logistics. That’s valid. But the wedding world doesn’t operate on your timeline it runs on availability, especially for destination weddings.

Couples who wait to “start planning later” often find themselves missing out on the resort they wanted, struggling to align their ideal date with important guests, or rushing through big decisions in a matter of weeks. It doesn’t feel good to plan that way. Early planning doesn’t mean locking everything down in one day. It just means being proactive, especially with high-demand pieces like location, venue, and guest travel.

The day of the week doesn’t matter in paradise, but a mid-week wedding might just be the perfect fit. Head to the blog to see why more couples are saying yes to this smart and stylish option.

Why 2026 Couples Should Already Be Thinking Ahead

Many of my 2026 couples have already picked their destination, secured their resort, and opened booking for their guests. And we’re not even in 2026 yet.

Why are they moving so early? Because they know how quickly the calendar fills. They want first pick of ceremony times, suite upgrades, and top-tier vendors. They’re giving their guests time to save and prepare. They’re locking in prices before rates increase.

And here’s the part that matters for you, they’re grabbing 2026 availability now, which means 2027 options will get tighter with every passing month. Resorts are already accepting contracts into 2027. That window you thought you had? It’s already starting to close.

Blush wedding invitations with wax seal, a beautiful detail to plan early for your 2027 wedding.

Planning Your 2027 Wedding Means Beating the Availability Rush

Destination weddings might feel more relaxed than traditional weddings, but the booking timeline is just as competitive, sometimes more. Resorts only allow a limited number of weddings per day. Many only do one. Ceremony spots, beachfront time slots, and reception venues are reserved on a first-come basis. Once they’re gone, they’re gone.

Then there’s your vendor team. DJs, photographers, hair and makeup artists, the good ones book early. If you have a specific vision, personality match, or creative style in mind, it’s going to be harder to find that last-minute. Planning ahead is your way of protecting your preferences.

Thinking about skipping the wedding website? Read this first. A simple, well-timed site can make all the difference for your guests and your planning flow.

How Booking Early for Your 2027 Wedding Can Save You Money

Here’s something couples are always surprised to hear: early planning isn’t just about dates and details. It’s about dollars, too. Resorts often reward early bookers with perks, free nights, upgrades, or resort credits. Flights tend to be cheaper when booked farther out. And room block pricing usually gets locked in at today’s rate, not next year’s.

But the biggest budget win? Time. When you plan early, you stretch your payment timeline. Instead of rushing to cover big deposits all at once, you can make smaller payments over time. It feels easier and lighter, and your guests will feel that too when it comes to booking their own travel.

Not sure where to start? This quick 3-minute quiz can point you toward the destination that best fits your wedding style and travel vibe.

Save the date card with calendar and heart marking the 24th, perfect for planning your 2027 wedding.

Why Your Guests Will Appreciate You Starting Early

Most couples want their guests to feel included, relaxed, and excited, but that doesn’t just happen by itself. A thoughtful guest experience starts with time.

When you begin early, you can:

  • Give guests a heads-up on dates before they request time off work
  • Offer flexible payment options for resort bookings
  • Help them plan their own vacations around your wedding weekend
  • Communicate clearly without rushing or confusion

At DWD Travel, I support your guests from first invite to final flight. But the earlier we start, the more prepared and confident everyone feels. Your guests will notice that you cared enough to make this easy for them, and that kind of hospitality makes your wedding feel even more special.

If you’re starting to plan your 2027 wedding, don’t miss this guide on creating an unforgettable guest experience in Mexico. It’s full of thoughtful tips to help you make your celebration feel effortless and meaningful for everyone attending.

What You Can (and Should) Tackle Now for a 2027 Wedding

You don’t need to plan everything at once. But if you’re engaged now and eyeing a 2027 date, here’s what’s smart to focus on this year:

  • Narrow down your wedding vision, tropical and relaxed? Modern and chic? Family-friendly or adults-only?
  • Take the Mexico Wedding Quiz to see which region fits your style best.
  • Explore real resort options and guest experiences
  • Chat with a planner (that’s me) to talk through what’s possible
  • Review your budget together and see what feels most important to prioritize
  • Check in with your must-have guests to make sure your preferred date and location work for them before you book anything.

None of these steps require you to lock things in. But they do move you forward in a calm, intentional way. You’ll feel more in control, and less like you’re racing against the clock later.

Looking ahead to your 2027 wedding weekend? Get inspired with ideas for beachfront welcome events that set the perfect tone for your celebration.

Bride and groom walking along a rocky beach at sunset, holding hands with waves at their feet.

What Happens If You Wait Too Long

Some couples wait, thinking their top choices will still be available a year out. But by then, the best resorts may already be full. Flight prices will likely be higher. Guests might feel rushed or unsure. And instead of enjoying the planning process, it becomes a stressful scramble.

Planning your wedding should feel exciting. It should feel like something you get to savor, not survive. Giving yourself more time isn’t about adding pressure. It’s about making space for clarity, joy, and better options.

Want a clear roadmap for what comes next? Learn how the four phases of planning a destination wedding can guide your 2027 celebration from start to finish.

Ready to Start Planning Your 2027 Wedding with Confidence?

If you’ve made it this far, you already care about creating something thoughtful, joyful, and well-organized, not just for yourself, but for your guests too. Planning your 2027 wedding doesn’t need to feel overwhelming. With the right timing, support, and strategy, it can be exciting and smooth from the very start.

When you’re ready to turn your vision into a real plan, I’m here to guide you every step of the way. Let’s make it feel effortless, from “Where should we get married?” to “We did it.”

take our quiz & let's find out!

Not sure where in Mexico to say ‘I do’?

Take our fun Mexico destination wedding quiz and uncover the location that feels just right for your love story.

From Cancun’s sparkling beaches to Cabo’s golden sunsets and the Riviera Maya’s lush resorts, this quiz will point you toward the perfect Mexico wedding destination for your “I do.”

If you’re planning a destination wedding in Mexico, this is the must-take first step to finding your dream location.

take the quiz here!