Hi, beautiful brides and grooms-to-be!
If you're planning a destination wedding, this post is for you. While it’s an incredibly exciting adventure, there’s no denying it takes more coordination than a traditional local wedding. You’re not just planning a ceremony—you’re planning a full travel experience for you and your guests. But don’t stress! With a bit of foresight and organization, your destination wedding can be just as smooth as it is magical.
We know weddings are about celebrating your love story, but when you're asking guests to travel, there’s a bit of destination wedding etiquette every couple should keep in mind. Here are the essential tips you need to make the process easier, smoother, and more thoughtful—for both you and your guests.
1. Send Save the Dates Early: Give your guests as much notice as possible. For destination weddings, Save the Dates should go out at least 8 months in advance, with formal invitations sent 3–4 months before the big day. This gives your guests time to request time off, book flights, arrange childcare, and plan their trip.
2. Include All the Key Info: A destination wedding invite needs to do more than just say "You're invited." Include a full itinerary, maps, hotel details, transportation info, and links to your wedding website. The more informed your guests are, the less they'll need to ask—and the more confident they’ll feel traveling to celebrate with you.
Photo: Wild Love & Wanderlust
3. Offer Lodging Options for All Budgets: While guests typically cover their own accommodations, you can make the experience easier by suggesting multiple nearby hotels that suit different price ranges. Bonus points if they’re close to the venue! A little research from you goes a long way in making your guests feel welcome and taken care of.
Photo: KT Merry
4. Be Transparent About Travel Costs: Guests will need to pay for their travel and stay, and although it can be awkward to bring up, there are tactful ways to handle it. Include links on your wedding website to discounted flights or hotel blocks to subtly signal expectations while also offering helpful resources.
5. Let Guests Know That Gifts Aren’t Necessary: Attending a destination wedding is a big investment. Be considerate and let your guests know that their presence is the best present. Adding a sweet note like “Your company is the only gift we need” to your invitation or website can go a long way in easing any pressure they may feel.
Photo: KT Merry
6. Host a Welcome or Farewell Event: Show your appreciation by organizing a welcome dinner before the wedding or a farewell brunch the day after. These extra moments make the trip even more memorable and give you precious time to connect with the people who traveled to be with you.
7. Create a Travel Guide: If your wedding is in a different city, state, or country, help your guests prepare. Include a travel guide on your website with tips on weather, currency, cultural etiquette, local attractions, and trendy spots to eat and explore. The easier you make it, the more relaxed and excited your guests will feel.
Planning a destination wedding is a beautiful adventure, and with the right etiquette and thoughtful planning, you’ll create an unforgettable experience for everyone involved. Communication, empathy, and preparation are your secret weapons to keep the process joyful and stress-free.
See you in our next post! XOXO
