No passport, no problem: fun ways to include guests who can’t travel

Planning a destination wedding? It’s a dream come true. But it does make it harder for all your loved ones to come. We look at ways to incorporate guests who can’t travel.

Whether they’ve got work commitments, young children, or other personal reasons that restrict travel arrangements, destination weddings can mean the guest list gets a little smaller. But even if they can’t be there in person, there are plenty of fun and meaningful ways to ensure your loved ones feel included, even from afar.

Here’s how to include guests who can’t travel without missing a beat!

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Go live!

One of the only good takeaways from our time in lockdown is that we all became incredibly efficient at livestreaming. From attending comedy shows to Christenings, we learned to watch on through a screen. And, your wedding is no different!

For those guests who can’t travel, set up a live stream so that they can still watch you say “I do.” Unsure where to start? Platforms like Zoom, YouTube Live, or private Facebook groups make it easy to share the moment. Assign a friend to manage the tech so you can focus on the vows!

Give them a little taste

If your guests can’t make it, give them a little taste of the celebration. Think bubbly, confetti, or a slice of a wedding cake – this way, your absent loved ones can raise a glass right along with you.

Virtual guestbook

Some of your most important people might not be able to jump on a plane, but that doesn’t mean that they need to be cut-off. Ask guests who can’t travel to record a video message or send a heartfelt note, this way they can be included in the speeches.

You can even consider displaying them on a screen or setting up a “wish wall” at the reception.

Include them on your decor

From photos of them on the table, to drawings they’ve made, or a sweet memory corner or photo board, these little touches add up. The visual reminders are incredible and tasteful ways to show your loved ones that een though they don’t have a seat at the table they’re still there in spirit.

Host a post-wedding viewing party

A lot of couples loved their wedding day so much that they want to live the whole day all over again. Well, with this idea, you’ll get to do it with those who missed out! When the dust has settled and you’ve unpacked your bags back on home soil, invite the guests who couldn’t travel to a relaxed get-together and show wedding photos, play highlight reels, and let them share in the joy.

Acknowledgements

Perhaps the easiest and most sentimental way to acknowledge loved ones who aren’t there is by mentioning them in your speeches. A heartfelt shoutout goes a long way.

Involve them before you go

If they can’t make it on the plane, involve them in something beforehand to make them feel included. From helping choose songs to contributing a reading, involving guests who can’t travel in your planning adds a personal touch and helps them feel connected.

Just make sure it’s fun tasks – don’t go giving guests who can’t travel the boring tasks like picking up printed stationery or other menial tasks!

The bottom line? Just because some guests can’t travel doesn’t mean they can’t celebrate with you. With a little creativity (and good WiFi), you can include everyone – near and far – in your wedding adventure.

If you’re tackling a destination wedding without help, you might need a little. We’ve got expert wedding planners specialising in destination weddings to help you. Reach out today.