How to Plan your Dream Destination Wedding: A Step-by-Step Guide
“A destination wedding is the chance to celebrate your love in a country beyond your own—where every moment is framed by the beauty of a new setting, and your vows become part of an unforgettable journey.”
Romantic and deeply personal, these weddings offer the chance to say “I do” in a setting that reflects your love story—whether under the Spanish sun or with the London skyline behind you.
Destination weddings are unforgettable—but they do require thoughtful planning and expert insight, as you are not in your home country.
Having had the pleasure of planning weddings across continents—from the cobbled streets of Toledo to the rolling hills of Andalusia, I can assure you that, with the right guidance, planning a wedding abroad can be smooth, exciting, and even joyful.
Here’s how to do it right:
1. Choose the Right Destination for You
Begin by imagining the atmosphere you want to create. Is it barefoot elegance on a beach, or timeless romance in a countryside villa?
Key considerations include:
Season & Weather – Even sunny destinations can surprise you with unpredictable weather - just make sure you are okay with this.
Guest Accessibility – Consider proximity to airports and ease of travel to the location.
2. Understand the Legalities Early
Each country has its own marriage laws—from residency requirements to translated documents.
You have two main options:
Marry legally abroad - navigating the local requirements (I’ve guided many couples through this process but depending on the country this can be very difficult)
Hold a symbolic ceremony at your destination and complete the legal paperwork at home.
Many couples choose the latter for its simplicity and peace of mind, allowing them to focus on the celebration itself.
3. Hire a Wedding Planner You Trust
Planning a wedding is one thing. Planning it in a different country is another.
A seasoned wedding planner will help you source trusted local suppliers, navigate cultural nuances, and often speak the language or assemble a team that does.
Most importantly, they’ll help you enjoy the process while balancing your work and personal life.
4. Set a Realistic Budget—And Build in a Buffer
It’s easy to get swept up in the dream, but staying grounded is key. Everyone deserves a beautiful wedding—and smart planning and choices makes that possible.
Be sure to factor in:
Travel & Accommodation Visits – Ideally, visit the venue at least twice: once before booking, and again during planning.
Currency Exchange Rates
Payment Methods – Use your credit card where possible to earn points and ensure security, but check in advance how suppliers prefer to be paid, as many require bank transfers in certain countries.
5. Make It Easy for Your Guests
Not all loved ones will be able to travel, so keep your guest list intentional and intimate.
Send Save the Dates 8–12 months in advance, and include:
Travel advice
Accommodation recommendations
A schedule of events
Make it feel like a holiday as much as a wedding celebration.
6. Embrace the Local Culture
This is what makes destination weddings truly special.
Incorporate:
Local wines and regional cuisine
Traditional music or symbolic rituals
Cultural activities or time for exploration
One of my couples planned a rest day between their welcome drinks and the wedding, giving guests time to discover the local town—everyone loved it.
7. Plan Like a Pro (Because You’ll Need To)
Destination weddings benefit from longer timelines—ideally 12–18 months in advance.
Plan ahead for:
Travel insurance for you both
Weather back-up plans—ensure you love your Plan B!
Safe dress transport—consider carrying it with you and using air tags to track luggage
Extra buffer time for delayed bags or jet lag
8. Expect the Unexpected—and Embrace It
Even the best-laid plans can shift. That’s part of the beauty.
With so many moving parts, a destination wedding requires a flexible mindset. Trust your team and let go when needed. If you stay relaxed, your guests will too—and that’s the energy that makes for unforgettable memories.
Final Thoughts
Planning a destination wedding is a bold and beautiful choice.
Yes, it requires more logistics—but the reward is immense: a once-in-a-lifetime experience in a place you love, shared with those who matter most.
If you’re dreaming of a destination celebration and don’t know where to begin, please get in touch. I would love to be part of your wedding planning journey.
Here’s to love, adventure, and unforgettable celebrations—wherever in the world they may be.
Looking for help planning a wedding abroad? Get in touch here!
Emma x
