Planning a destination wedding is exciting. You will discover that it involves many things to do and consider with a lot of decisions to make as you start the planning process. Because of this, mistakes can be made at any stage of the process. Thankfully, being aware of these mistakes can help you avoid making them, ensuring smoother planning and a more successful event. When planning Destination Weddings, below are mistakes you should avoid:
Not Working with a Wedding Planner
When planning a destination, look for a wedding expert to help you with this process. This person must have the right experience and have visited a lot of the venues you are considering.
While you may want to reach out to a resort directly, this can result in confusion. You may not know what exactly to ask every resort, so you might get misleading information. But a wedding planner may have dealt with a resort in the past and understand the amenities and packages available and how the venue can tailor their services to your needs.
A wedding planner will work with you to help you pick a hotel for your wedding, ensuring you get the best service. After you have chosen a resort to get married at, the planner will help you and your guests book reservations. Without a planner, you will have to do the hard work yourself, which can be time-consuming and overwhelming.
Waiting Too Long to Plan
To have the best destination wedding, start the planning process early by choosing the venue at least one year to eighteen months in advance. With this, you will have more options to select from and venues might not be sold out.
When it comes to resort weddings, Thursdays and Sundays are usually fully booked one year in advance. And since some resorts host up to ten weddings every day, you should plan early on.
Not Consider Important Budgets
While budgeting is the least fun part of planning a destination wedding, it is important. You must be realistic from the get-go, considering two separate budgets.
First, consider how much it will cost your guests to stay in your wedding destination. Typically, a guest can spend $1, 000 to stay four nights at a destination. Their flights are not included in this cost. It can cost them a lot of money, so consider ways to help them have an amazing experience.
In addition, you should also consider the wedding event budget. For instance, a Caribbean destination wedding may be less costly than hosting one in the U. S. However, keep in mind that things quickly add up. Beware of offers from some venues that seem too affordable. Always read the fine print first to understand the inclusions of a wedding package. Your planner can help you avoid misleading offers.
Underestimating the Weather
Whether can affect your comfort and how you look on your special day. For instance, the Caribbean is a humid destination that can wreak havoc on your makeup and hairstyles. Also, wind plays a big factor with the veil. To avoid the peak heat, schedule the wedding ceremony for late afternoon or even early evening. Give your guests parasols and fans, and make sure lots of hydration options are available. Have a backup plan for rain, such an elegant tent.
Overlooking Traditions
Even if you want your wedding to be hosted away from home, you can still honor your family’s traditions. This can by incorporating special touches from home while embracing local customs. For instance, if you are tying the knot in Mexico, consider spending the cocktail hour with a Mariachi band.
