Dying to tie the knot on a tropical beach? A destination wedding offers a backdrop for your nuptials that many domestic locales can't match. With that beauty, though, comes a unique set of challenges. Here are five important tips for getting started planning your perfect destination wedding.
Start by choosing a location. You might have the exact location in mind already, but some people need to weigh the pros and cons of various places. Keep in mind that a destination wedding doesn't have to mean international -- anywhere more than a two-hour drive can be considered destination for those who stay close to home. Your budget is likely to be one of the largest determining factors, as a wedding in Australia will be significantly most expensive (for both you and your guests) than one in France.
Discuss things over with friends and family. A destination wedding is likely to cut down your guest list as it's just not realistic for many to travel the distance. Make sure those who are vital to your happiness - your parents, siblings, bridal party and others - can make it, and then you can start firming up your guest list and looking at particular venues.
Get to know the wedding coordinator. He or she will be your best friend. The better you know them, the less likely they'll delete your 48th email of the day asking if white calla lilies are native to their country.
Get to know the laws, both in your destination and at home. For most out-of-country weddings, you have to make it legal when you return from your wedding-moon. Some countries have residency restrictions - for example, you can't get married in the Caribbean's St. Martaan without residing there for 10 days.
Plan for after the wedding. Not only do you need to decide if you're going to stay and party with your family and friends or whisk away to another location for your honeymoon, you also need to plan for what to do with all those wonderful gifts you receive. Make sure your guests have the option of sending gifts straight to your home residence.
Start by choosing a location. You might have the exact location in mind already, but some people need to weigh the pros and cons of various places. Keep in mind that a destination wedding doesn't have to mean international -- anywhere more than a two-hour drive can be considered destination for those who stay close to home. Your budget is likely to be one of the largest determining factors, as a wedding in Australia will be significantly most expensive (for both you and your guests) than one in France.
Discuss things over with friends and family. A destination wedding is likely to cut down your guest list as it's just not realistic for many to travel the distance. Make sure those who are vital to your happiness - your parents, siblings, bridal party and others - can make it, and then you can start firming up your guest list and looking at particular venues.
Get to know the wedding coordinator. He or she will be your best friend. The better you know them, the less likely they'll delete your 48th email of the day asking if white calla lilies are native to their country.
Get to know the laws, both in your destination and at home. For most out-of-country weddings, you have to make it legal when you return from your wedding-moon. Some countries have residency restrictions - for example, you can't get married in the Caribbean's St. Martaan without residing there for 10 days.
Plan for after the wedding. Not only do you need to decide if you're going to stay and party with your family and friends or whisk away to another location for your honeymoon, you also need to plan for what to do with all those wonderful gifts you receive. Make sure your guests have the option of sending gifts straight to your home residence.
About the Author:
Randolph Quan is a wedding photographers London, and advises people on awedding photographer blog at his website.
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