4 Essential Tips For Planning The Destination Wedding Of Your Dreams

Every year, an average of 2.4 million weddings are performed in the U.S. And while many couples seem to be under the impression that destination wedding are extravagant and expensive, there are actually a number of ways to make your wedding more unique and memorable than ever by planning your big day in an exotic location. Here are just a few tips for planning the destination wedding you’ve always dreamed of.

Don’t Rush

First, you should know right off the bat that planning a destination wedding will most likely take longer than planning a traditional wedding. That being said, you should focus on finding the perfect destination as opposed to the perfect timeframe or schedule. This is your chance to research the areas you’re most interested in and read reviews from people who have actually tied the knot there. Having this critical information early in the process can help you make a final decision when it comes to choosing a destination, which should obviously be one of the first major decisions you make.

Visit First, If Possible

U.S. residents logged 1.7 billion trips for leisure purposes in 2015, and believe it or not, once you’ve officially chosen a destination, you should take one of your own, if at all possible. That’s right — visiting your wedding destination prior to the actual event can give you some much-needed insight into important aspects such as climate, and more importantly, venues, suppliers, and hotel options. A planning trip can help clarify these decisions, eliminate some stress, and give you and your significant other the excuse to take a mini vacation touring the beautiful sights, sounds, and wedding-related services of your chosen destination. Just think of it as a pre-wedding honeymoon.

Don’t Neglect Additional Expenses

Despite all the anticipation and excitement surrounding your approaching wedding day, it’s important to stay grounded and keep budget in mind. Fortunately, some countries’ exchange rates make it easier than ever to set and stick to a reasonable budget. Not only that, but sometimes destination weddings can end up being cheaper than traditional ones. If you live in an area where even facilities are consistently in high demand, such as New York City, chances are you’ll spend much less by opting for a country like Mexico, where prices are much more reasonable. Yes, even when factoring in hotel expenses, airfare, and the planning trip mentioned above. When it comes down to it, according to a 2011 report, 86% of consumers will pay more for a better experience. But sometimes, you just don’t have to!

Determine Marriage Requirements

Finally, it’s essential to make sure you understand the legal requirements of tying the knot in your chosen destination. Some countries have policies that require a couple to have resided in the country for a full 24 hours prior to your ceremony, sometimes even longer. France legally requires couples to stay in the country for a full 40 days before they can legally wed!

Ultimately, taking advantage of these destination wedding-planning tips can help you find the perfect balance between budget and location. When you choose a destination wedding, you can be sure that you and your guests will have the experience of a lifetime.