Destination wedding styling: Bringing your vision to life in a far-away land

Planning a destination wedding is the dream. Tropical backdrops, ocean breezes and barefoot vows. However, it can be daunting to bring your aesthetic to the lush beaches. We tackle destination wedding styling, and how you can bring your carefully curated Pinterest board thousands of kilometers away.

Whether you’re saying “I do” in Bali, Fiji, Thailand, or Vietnam, styling your destination wedding is all about blending your vision with the local flavour. You’ll also need to trust the right people to make it happen. If you’re planning a destination wedding, we’ve got some tips to make it a little more seamless.

Your Destination Wedding moodboard is right here!

Planning your destination wedding? We’ve got the experts! Our planners can get it all done for you, so you can just enjoy the journey. Reach out today.

Bali: Boho-meets-luxury

What’s the vibe: Barefoot luxury, modern-meets-traditional, candlelit and cliffside dinners, traditional cleansings, tropical florals.

Style in Bali: Bali is all about laid-back elegance. It really does give the sense of luxury, but in some cases for a fraction of the price. You can make it an elegant event without losing that island vibe. From custom bamboo arbours to flowing linens and dramatic draping, perfectly placed frangipani bring you straight back to the tropical paradise.

Styling tips:

• Embrace neutral palettes with a pop of tropical colour (oranges, pinks, etc.)\
• Incorporate local elements like coconut shells and handwoven fans.
• Choose a villa or cliffside venue with architectural character. The less you add, the better.

Explore Bali options.

Thailand: Exotic elegance, a little drama

What’s the vibe: Rich culture, very bold colours, golden temples, elegant extravagance.

Thailand offers a plethora of options, from beach resorts to rainforest escapes. Thai weddings are universally known for their beautiful balance of ornate details and incredible natural settings, as well as exquisite menus.

Styling tips:

• Don’t be afraid of colour: deep red, gold, and emerald look incredible against Thailand’s lush backdrops.
• Lanterns, lotus flowers, and intricate textures can add Thai flair without overwhelming your theme.
• Want a fusion? Mix Thai-inspired touches (like fruit carvings or traditional parasols) with modern decor for the best of both worlds.

Find out more about Thailand weddings.

Fiji: Romantic and unforgettable

What’s the vibe? If Fijians are known for one thing, it’s their incredible warmth and friendliness. It’s just a feel-good island energy that resonates throughout the location, and makes everything glow a little brighter.

Fijian weddings lean in their tropical paradise, with an emphasis on the beach ceremonies and open-air parties. Local teams are incredibly warm and very flexible. If you’re after minimal or ultra-lush, they’ll be there to accommodate.

Styling tips:

• Use locally grown florals like hibiscus, orchids, and frangipanis.
• Opt for relaxed decor with woven textures, neutral tones, and ocean-inspired hues.
• Add a touch of Fijian tradition: a kava ceremony, warrior dancers, or tapa cloth accents.

Start planning your Fijian celebration.

Vietnam: Cultural charm and French-colonial chic

What’s the vibe? Untouched beaches, French-colonial charm, rice fields, ancient cities. Vietnam is all about depth, detail and incredible food.

Vietnam is perfect for couples looking for a blend of tradition and trend. A Hoi An wedding can feel like a fairytale, while Da Nang and Phu Quoc bring that luxe resort feel. Local stylists often infuse traditional materials like silk, lanterns, and bamboo into modern settings.

Styling tips:

• Add handcrafted lanterns, calligraphy signage, and silk accents to honour local artistry.
• Use the local environment — from riverside markets to beach sunsets — to inspire your palette.
• Work with a local planner who understands both Western expectations and Vietnamese traditions.

Vietnamese weddings will blow you away, plan yours!

Destination Styling 101

Whether you’re dreaming of orchids on the beach in Fiji or a candlelit dinner under Balinese palm trees, here are some tips to bring your vision to life — without the stress.

1. Hire a local planner or stylist

This is a game-changer. They know the best suppliers, speak the language, and understand what works in the climate. Many even specialise in working with Aussie couples!

2. Moodboards are your best friend

Pinterest is a great starting point, but turning your ideas into a visual brief is key. Think: colours, textures, florals, and must-have elements.

3. Communicate clearly and often

The time difference and language barrier can be tricky. Be as detailed as possible with your vision, and ask for photos and updates along the way.

Keep it fun and meaningful.

Planning a destination wedding is about celebrating your love in a place that inspires you. With the right team, a clear vision, and a bit of flexibility, your styling dreams can come to life — beautifully, effortlessly, and authentically.