Frequently Asked Questions Regarding Destination Weddings
What is a Destination Wedding?
A destination wedding is when you travel to a special place for your wedding. It might be just the two of you (also known as eloping!), or you might include a group of friends and family. It's an appealing option if you want to do something different, 'enforce' a small guest list, hold the wedding at a place equally (in) convenient for far-flung family, or just 'get away'!" Ten percent of weddings today are now considered "destination weddings", according to "Destination Weddings and Honeymoons Magazine".
Will we need a wedding consultant or coordinator?
That honestly depends on the amount of time you'll have to put into the research of your destination wedding. If you don't have the time (or feel qualified) to research the legal requirements that go along with a destination wedding, the vendors in that area, officiant options, where to stay, etc. -- then yes, you probably will need to hire a coordinator or consultant. See hiring a Palm Springs coordinator.
What about destination weddings for second marriages?
The old rule of having a small, discreet, second wedding no longer applies; feel free to do what you think is appropriate and will make both you and your future spouse happy. Whether this means a large wedding with you in a long white dress and veil or a small, intimate gathering with you wearing anything but a white dress, is entirely up to you.
Maybe your first wedding was a simple affair and this time you want to pull out all the stops. Now that you are older, you probably feel less obligated to make your choices based on your parents' wishes, so you have a wider range of choices available to you.
Family and close friends are invited to a location out of town, generally a vacation spot, where the ceremony and reception take place. The couple can plan group activities during the weekend of the wedding, such as dinners, visiting local attractions or attending sporting events. Destination weddings can double as a vacation for everyone who attends. Because of the travel and expense required to attend destination weddings, generally only close family and friends make the trip.
Are destination weddings cheaper than a traditional one?
Not necessarily... It honestly depends on the location you select, the time of year (for certain locations), and the size of your guest list. Whether or not you pick up the tab for your guests' travel can also increase (or decrease) the costs significantly.
Should we tell our friends and family in advance?
That is honestly a question best answered individually -- although it is highly recommended that you at least let your parents know in advance. Family dynamics do not always make this possible, or the best choice, however.
Just remember that even though your idea of a "dream wedding" does not include 500 of your closest strangers -- your parent's idea of a "dream wedding" for you just might. Not telling them of your plans in advance could create resentment you'll never recover from -- on both sides. But again, you know your friends and family best, and in the end you should follow your heart.
Announcements, invitations, and "Save the Dates"
Invitations are only sent to those that you intend to have present at your wedding. Announcements are mailed to everyone else. Invitations should be mailed before the wedding, and announcements after the wedding. If you are having a local reception when you return home, a reception card can be enclosed with the invite and/or announcement. The Summer 2000 issue of Martha Stewart Weddings ("Fruit and Floral Centerpieces" on the cover) has an article about announcements. It covers engagement, wedding, and newspaper announcements -- with wording examples. The article is on page 112-114.
How do I get my wedding dress there safely?
If you are flying, you can usually make arrangements with your airline in advance. First-class cabins have large "coat closets" that can be used for bridal gown storage. If your plane does not have a first-class area (on airlines such as Southwest), it is highly recommended that you package the dress in a large box and ship it to your destination in advance, carefully packed in tissue to hold its shape. Regardless of the method you choose, look into having your gown pressed at a local cleaners upon your arrival. Your hotel's concierge and/or wedding coordinator can help with this.
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