​Planning Your Destination Wedding? Here's How to Get Started!

12–16 Months Before Your Wedding
Now that you have the ring, it’s time to begin planning your dream destination wedding! Here’s a simple roadmap to help you get started:

1. Set Your Budget: Include both typical wedding costs and travel expenses like airfare and accommodations.
2. Create Your Guest List: This will directly influence your budget, so keep that in mind when planning.
3. Choose Your Destination: Pick a country or region that matches your vision. Make sure to consider the best weather seasons and avoid hurricane months.
4. Marriage License Requirements: Research the marriage laws in your chosen destination. Requirements vary by country, from blood tests to waiting periods and additional fees.
5. Get Your Passports: Ensure that both you and your fiancé have valid passports. Some countries require a passport validity of at least 6 months from the wedding date.
6. Hire a Planner: It’s essential to work with a travel expert to guide you through the destination wedding process, ensuring nothing is overlooked.
7. Book a Travel Agent: We specialize in destination weddings and can connect you with the best venues, negotiate rates, and secure exclusive upgrades.
8. Secure Your Wedding Venue & Date: Once you’ve selected the perfect location, book it early and get everything in writing. If possible, take a pre-wedding trip to visit the venue or consult online reviews and recommendations from your planner or agent.
9. Wedding Insurance: Consider purchasing wedding insurance to cover unexpected changes or cancellations.
10. Reserve Your Honeymoon Suite: If you're tying the knot at the same venue, book your honeymoon suite at the same time.

9–11 Months Before Your Wedding
As you get closer to the big day, focus on finalizing these important tasks:

1. Wedding Party Preparations: Ensure your wedding party members have valid passports and any other necessary travel documents.
2. Send Out Save the Dates: Give your guests ample time to plan their travel and accommodations.
3. Book Hotel Rooms for Guests: Research the best group accommodations near your venue and secure a discounted rate for your guests.
4. Create a Wedding Website: Include all necessary details—travel info, accommodations, itinerary, local maps, and your gift registry.
5. Plan Additional Events: Think about hosting a welcome party, rehearsal dinner, or post-wedding brunch. These extra events make your wedding celebration even more memorable.
6. Say YES to the Dress (or Tux!): Choose attire that suits the climate and setting of your wedding location.
7. Book Your Airline Tickets: Secure early-bird deals for flights to your destination.
8. Find Local Vendors: Work with your planner or venue coordinator to hire local vendors for photography, catering, and more.

6–8 Months Before Your Wedding
By now, your wedding is really coming together!

1. Take Engagement Photos: If you haven’t already, schedule your engagement shoot with your photographer.
2. Work with Vendors on Details: Finalize your menu with the caterer and book rehearsal dinner venues.
3. Order Wedding Invitations: Include details about the destination, travel info, and the wedding itinerary on your invites.
4. Book Hair & Makeup Artists: Hire stylists for your wedding day look, and schedule a trial run.
5. Finalize Vendor Contracts: Make sure everything is in writing and that you’re clear on timelines and expectations.

3–5 Months Before Your Wedding
It’s getting closer—time to nail down all the details:

1. Confirm Your Guest List: Finalize RSVPs and meal preferences.
2. Plan Activities: Consider fun excursions or group activities, like snorkeling or sightseeing.
3. Finalize Attire: Get your dress and wedding party outfits tailored and ready.
4. Order Rings: Get your wedding rings and any accessories, like shoes and veils.
5. Finalize Honeymoon Plans: Double-check honeymoon bookings and any additional activities.

6–8 Weeks Before Your Wedding
As the day approaches, make sure all the final details are set:

1. Confirm Flight and Hotel Bookings: Double-check everyone’s reservations, including your guests and wedding party.
2. Finalize Wedding Vows and Readings: Meet with your officiant to go over the ceremony details.
3. Finalize Song List: Work with your DJ or band to choose your ceremony and reception music.
4. Check Required Legal Documents: Make sure you have all necessary paperwork, such as passports and birth certificates, for the wedding.
5. Wedding Favors and Gifts: Order gifts for your bridal party and favors for your guests.

1–2 Weeks Before Your Wedding
It’s almost here! Take care of these last-minute tasks:

1. Pick Up Your Gown/Tux: Ensure everything is steamed and ready to go.
2. Finalize Seating Arrangements: Set up a seating chart or place cards for the reception.
3. Packing: Start packing early and don’t forget your wedding rings, legal documents, and emergency kit!
4. Confirm Vendor Payments: Finalize any outstanding payments and gratuities for vendors.

The Day Before Your Wedding
It’s almost time to say “I do”!

1. Steamed Attire: Ensure your wedding dress or suit is wrinkle-free.
2. Rehearsal & Dinner: Celebrate with your wedding party and give out gifts.
3. Relax: Try to get some sleep—you’ll need it for your big day!

The Big Day
Enjoy every single moment. You’ve worked hard to make your dream wedding a reality—now, it’s time to celebrate!

Ready to Plan Your Dream Destination Wedding?
Book Your Free Planning Session Today!
Call or text 746-1556

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