Planning a destination wedding can be an exciting and slightly daunting experience. To help ease your concerns and provide expert insights, we called in Amelia Scatigno, Easy Weddings’ Destination Weddings Manager.
Are you considering a destination wedding? Our in-house destination wedding expert, Amelia Scatigno, is coming in hot with all the answers to your questions. She has years of experience crafting international love stories and is here to answer some of the most commonly asked questions about destination weddings. From cost considerations to venue selection and beyond, let’s dive into some destination wedding FAQs.
Is a destination wedding cheaper?
It can be if you play your cards right and secure something like a destination wedding package that includes your venue and vendors. These packages often offer competitive pricing and streamlined services, helping you save on overall costs.
How do you find local wedding businesses you can trust?
Luckily, the Easy Weddings team love connecting with vendors from all over the world. We have established connections with reputable local wedding businesses in some of the most sought-after wedding destinations like Fiji, Bali, Thailand, and beyond. We can help you find trusted vendors who have experience working with interstate or international couples and ensure that your day goes smoothly.
Do you have to have a wedding website if you’re having a destination wedding?
While not mandatory, having a wedding website can be incredibly helpful for communicating important details to your guests, such as travel information, accommodation options, and itinerary. It also provides a convenient platform for guests to RSVP and ask questions.
Can we get legally married overseas?
Yes, it is possible to have a legally binding wedding ceremony overseas. However, the requirements and procedures vary from country to country. It’s important to research the specific regulations of your chosen destination and work with a knowledgeable wedding planner to ensure all legalities are met.
How do you get your wedding dress to your destination wedding?
When it comes to transporting your wedding dress, most airlines understand the importance of such precious cargo. Flight attendants are usually helpful and will assist in storing it safely aboard the craft. We recommend telling your groom and bridal party to take the same precautions and bring their outfits as carry-on rather than checked luggage.
How far in advance do you have to send invitations for a destination wedding?
For a destination wedding, it’s recommended to send save-the-date cards as soon as your venue is booked, allowing your guests ample time to make travel arrangements. Formal invitations should follow approximately 8-12 weeks before the wedding date.
Who pays for what at a destination wedding?
The financial responsibilities for a destination wedding can vary depending on cultural norms and personal preferences. Generally, couples cover the costs of the ceremony and reception, while guests are responsible for their own travel and accommodation expenses.
Do guests still have to buy gifts for a destination wedding?
In short, no. It is not mandatory for guests to purchase gifts for a destination wedding. However, it’s a good idea to guide them by politely stating that their presence at your chosen location is a gift in itself!
Is it possible to do a hair and makeup trial before the wedding if you’re having a destination wedding?
Yes, it is possible to arrange a hair and makeup trial for your destination wedding. You can either plan a site visit where you can meet with local vendors and have a trial, or if a site visit is not feasible, you can schedule a trial on one of the days prior to the wedding.
Do you have to see the venue in person before you commit to a destination wedding?
It is not mandatory to see the venue in person before committing to a destination wedding. However, visiting the venue can help you feel more connected to the location and the people you’ll be working with. It also allows you to explore the local scene, making it easier to recommend highlights to your friends and family.
Planning a destination wedding can be an adventure filled with excitement and questions — and we hope we’ve settled some of your biggest fears with our resident expert’s answers. We want to go one step further to take some of the pressure off your shoulders; Easy Weddings now offers destination wedding packages for weddings around the world! Packages can include a venue, accommodation, a photographer, video, music, celebrant, and more. Find out more by chatting with our Destination Wedding Team.
