Picture this: you’re walking barefoot down a sandy aisle, ocean breeze in your hair, or maybe you’re under twinkling fairy lights in a Tuscan vineyard, clutching your bouquet like it’s a glass of Prosecco at a bottomless brunch. That’s the magic of a destination wedding—it’s not just a ceremony, it’s a whole vibe.
But here’s the thing no one tells you—planning a wedding is basically like organising a festival, but with way more sequins and emotional stakes. Add in the fact that it’s in another country and suddenly, your mood board turns into a passport stamp-collecting, timezone-juggling, spreadsheet-filled adventure.
So, how do you make sure your dream wedding abroad isn’t just Instagram-perfect, but also stress-free and fun? Let’s break it down, teen-vogue-meets-your-group-chat style.
1. Pick your location like it’s your soulmate
This is the decision that will set the tone for everything else. Beach in Bali? Castle in Scotland? Chic city rooftop in Paris? Your venue will decide your weather, your dress vibe, your budget (sad but true), and even your guest list.
Here’s the checklist you didn’t know you needed:
- Is it photogenic without needing a million fairy lights?
- Will your grandma survive the journey without threatening to “just Zoom in instead”?
- Are there enough local hotels so your friends don’t end up three towns over?
- Will you actually enjoy being there, or are you just chasing Pinterest dreams?
Pro tip: Google “destination wedding venues in [your dream location]” and stalk their tagged photos on Instagram. You’ll get the real vibe—not just the styled shoots.
2. Decide if you’re going full DIY or getting a wedding planner
Yes, you can plan a destination wedding yourself, but ask yourself—do you really want to be texting caterers in another time zone while you’re supposed to be sipping Aperol Spritz by the pool?
A good local wedding planner is basically like hiring a fairy godmother with a clipboard. They know the suppliers, they speak the language (literally and figuratively), and they’ll tell you which “must-have” traditions you can skip without offending anyone.
If you’re on a budget, you can even hire one just for the big day to make sure things run smoothly while you focus on… you know… getting married.
3. Lock in accommodation early
Here’s the thing about destination weddings—everyone’s travelling, which means hotel rooms, villas, and Airbnbs get snatched up fast.
Options to consider:
- Booking out the whole venue (if possible) so it becomes your own little wedding bubble.
- Negotiating group rates at nearby hotels.
- Renting a villa for your bridal party (instant pre-wedding slumber party vibes).
And no, you don’t have to pay for everyone’s stay, but arranging options for different budgets makes you look like a logistical goddess.
4. Hire local pros (and not just for the food)
Flying in your cousin’s boyfriend who’s “really good with a camera” is cute in theory… until you realise airport security lost his gear. Local photographers, makeup artists, and florists know the area, the light, and the best suppliers. You can see in Vittore Buzzi Photography examples of how important this can be, and it’s something to consider.
Plus, booking local supports the community you’re celebrating in—karma points and less stress for you.
5. Visit before you commit (and maybe more than once)
I know, flights are expensive. But nothing beats standing in your actual venue, checking the vibe, testing the menu, and seeing the sunset for yourself.
Think of it as a mini holiday disguised as “wedding research.” You’ll get way more confident in your decisions, and you might even spot little details you’d never think of from a distance (like the fact that the aisle is on a hill and maybe not best for stilettos).
6. Turn it into a multi-day experience
The beauty of a destination wedding is that it’s not just one day. Your guests have travelled—give them more than a quick ceremony and a rushed dinner.
Ideas to sprinkle around your main day:
- Welcome drinks by the pool or in a local wine bar.
- A casual beach BBQ the night before.
- Morning-after brunch with strong coffee and even stronger gossip.
It’s not about cramming the schedule—it’s about giving everyone more reasons to remember the trip.
7. Get wedding insurance (yes, it’s a thing)
Flights get delayed. Venues double-book (rare, but it happens). Luggage goes missing. Wedding insurance exists to make sure you’re not crying into your dress because your dream day got derailed by a volcano, a pandemic, or a rogue airline policy.
Make sure your policy covers destination weddings specifically—because not all of them do.
8. Remember—it’s your wedding, not a travel package
Between guest opinions, Instagram pressure, and the Pinterest rabbit hole, it’s easy to forget the whole point—you and your partner celebrating your love in a place that makes your hearts explode.
So yes, consider the logistics, but don’t let them drown out your excitement. You’re not just planning a wedding. You’re planning a once-in-a-lifetime adventure.
