Top Ten Tips For Planning Your Destination Wedding

I am often asked for my top tips for planning a destination wedding so I thought I'd put them in a list to share. If you have planned your own destination wedding or if you are a wedding planner with more tips to share, please comment below I'm sure we'd all love to hear them!

1. Decide as early as possible where and when you will marry since this will determine so many other elements of your wedding including finances, guests, theme etc
2. Once you've decided on where and when you'll marry, decide if you'll be having guests and if so, how many you will have taking into account space, guest availability and costs
3. Think about the climate and weather at the time of year your wedding will take place when making plans. This is particularly important if any part of your ceremony or reception will take place outside. You'd be surprised how many people neglect to do this! Click here for tips on preparing for an outdoor wedding.
4. If you're marrying abroad, particularly in a country where you don't speak the language, consider using the services of a wedding planner who will be able to bridge the language barrier, navigate local regulations & customs, and bring an insider's perspective to your planning
5. Ask your guests to either send gifts to your home rather than bringing them along to your wedding or put in place an alternative gift giving arrangement such as a gift registry or wishing well (cash donations). If you'd prefer not to receive gifts or for guests to donate to a charity instead, put these details in your wedding invitation or announcements. 
6. Make plans for the safe arrival of your wedding dress/gown. No matter the distance you will travel for your wedding, it will be necessary for you to transport it as safely as possible to avoid any damage and reduce wrinkling. Read my previous blog post on the topic on transporting your dress. 

Destination: Wedding - A guide to planning the destination wedding of your dreams is available in paperback and digital formats at Amazon (UK), Amazon (USA) and from www.destination-wedding-book.com.