Pros & Cons of A Destination Wedding

As appealing and tempting as it is to just fly off to that picturesque sandy beach or dreamy chateau to say your I Do’s, planning a destination wedding isn’t without its challenges. To better figure out whether this complex logistical affair is for you, I have listed the most common pros and cons of destination weddings that I have come across throughout my years of planning.

Let’s start with the –not so good- news first.

Cons of Destination Weddings 

Rules to Research 

As you may be used to the typical rules of marriage and travel in your home country, holding your wedding in another country can add plenty of other requirements into the mix. Some places require blood tests, while more remote and off the trail destinations require you to invite the elders of the town to your ceremony; every country is different, so you have to make sure to do your homework.

Making Sure It’s Legal 

The last thing you’d want is to go through the whole work to get married in another country, only to find out it’s not legally binding whether at home or at the place of the wedding. Destination weddings require a bit more thought put into how you can legally tie the knot and what kind of licenses are required and which venues are acceptable legally.

Fun fact: did you know that up until rules being relaxed due to COVID, outdoor wedding were not considered legal in England & Wales.

Potentially Cost-Prohibitive for Guests 

Although a destination wedding might be more cost-effective for a couple, the expense and logistics of traveling may not be feasible for some guests, making it more difficult to attend your wedding.

Planning for Language Barriers 

Jetting off to another country can always present a challenge when it comes to communicating, which is another thing to consider while planning a destination wedding. However, this is one of the easiest hurdles to overcome with technology and the help of a local or an interpreter.

Now for the happier news!

Pros of Destination Weddings 

Epic Views and Photos 

A destination wedding gives you the opportunity to say your I Do’s in front of an epic backdrop, be it a relaxed beachfront celebration or an elegant al fresco party at a historic chateau. You and your photographer will agree that it will only make your wedding photos that much more stunning.

Intimate and Immersive 

Destination weddings tend to be more intimate, which is one of the main pros that will give you an immersive experience that really transports your guests; although there is no rule dictating how big your guest list can actually be.

Potential Cost Savings 

Depending on your location, the size and intricacy of your wedding details, chances are your destination wedding will be rather cost efficient, especially if you look to local vendors and opt for in-season options.

Built-In Vacation 

Your choice of destination might come from the desire to tie the knot somewhere significant to you, or somewhere totally new that you’d like to explore. Both choices though will offer you the chance to double your celebrations with a built-in vacation experience with the people you care about the most, which is otherwise close to impossible to plan!

Unique Experiences 

A destination wedding offers exciting new experiences and the opportunity for quality time with loved ones, as well as it is a more unique option and can be a way to explore and incorporate new and different cultural elements to your celebration, inspired by the customs and traditions of the place you choose.