Table of Contents
Planning a destination wedding? Oh, the places you’ll go! From sandy beaches to enchanted castles, the world is your wedding venue. Picture this: the sun setting over crystal-clear waters, a gentle breeze rustling through palm trees, and your closest friends and family gathered to celebrate your love in a stunning, far-off locale. Excited yet? We thought so! But before you hop on that plane, there’s some organizing to do. Don’t worry, we’ve got your back. Our essential checklist will guide you through everything you need to do to ensure your wedding day is not just a dream but a dazzling reality. So, let’s dive in and start planning the destination wedding of your dreams!
With this roadmap, your destination wedding will be a beautiful, unforgettable celebration. So start planning, embrace the journey, and get ready to create memories that will last a lifetime!
12+ months ahead
- Set your wedding budget – let the dreaming begin!
- Hire a wedding planner if you’re considering professional help.
- Secure your dream location and venue. The sooner the better!
- Check out group discounts and secure a block of rooms for your guests.
- Book your destination wedding package (cue the excitement!).
- Make sure you have all the necessary documentation to get married, and check your passport is up to date.
- Start working on your guest list.
10-11 months ahead
- Choose your wedding theme and colours – get those Pinterest boards going!
- Start building your wedding website. It’s your digital hub for all things wedding-related.
- Contact your resort’s wedding coordinator to start planning.
- Create your unique wedding hashtag. #NewlywedsOnTheBeach, anyone?
- If you are bringing a photographer from home, book now to ensure availability.
- Finalise your guest list and send out save-the-dates. The countdown is on!
8-9 months ahead
- Send out beautiful invitations.
- Find and purchase your dream wedding dress.
- Complete your wedding registry.
6-7 months ahead
- Choose your bridal party outfits – coordinate those fabulous looks.
- Buy all the accessories for the big day, including jewellery and shoes.
4-5 months ahead
- Plan your rehearsal dinner. Remember to make it memorable!
- Organise pre- and post-wedding activities for your guests. Fun times ahead!
- Confirm the menu, flowers, photography and DJ with your wedding coordinator.
- Schedule a hair trial and book your make-up artist and hair stylist.
- Purchase any wedding stationery such as menus, ceremony cards and cocktail napkins.
2-3 months ahead
- Pick up your wedding favours.
- Purchase gifts for your bridal party.
- Follow up any outstanding RSVPs from your guests.
- Start planning some exciting trips.
1 month ahead
- Schedule any essential beauty appointments before you leave.
- Organise the logistics of getting favours, decorations and stationery to your destination.
- On arrival
- Check into your resort and distribute welcome materials to your guests, including an itinerary of events.
- Meet with the venue’s event coordinator and officiant to finalise details for the rehearsal dinner and big day.
Wedding day
- It’s time to get married! Soak up every moment of your special day.
