Planning a Location Wedding – The Dos And Don’ts
Planning a location wedding is a wonderful and exciting experience. But with so many decisions to make and so many details to perfect, creating a destination wedding may seem like a fantasy. Whilst it may require some extra research and time, having your big day abroad may be more achievable than you first thought. Here are some helpful tips to help you realise your perfect location wedding!
Do hire a wedding planner when Planning a Location Wedding
A good wedding planner saves you money and stress! So be sure to find one that has experience with your chosen location. Wedding planners know how to make your ideas a reality, with a list of reliable suppliers and trusted contacts. They can help keep you on track with your budget and negotiate deals with your venue. To help you tick off as many items from your checklist as possible. Contact them frequently to make important decisions early in the planning process! The sooner you can send out ‘save the dates’, the more chance your guests will be able to make your location wedding day. If you want a pre-made package for your wedding, there are companies that provide this and take all of the guesswork out of the planning process.
Don’t forget to consider local laws and traditions
Depending on whether you want a religious, symbolic or civil ceremony, there will be different laws and regulations you’ll need to consider to ensure your marriage is legal and valid. For example, some countries may require you to get certain documents translated. Or be resident in the country for a specific time period before and after the ceremony. In the US, Mexico or Turkey, you even need to have blood tests beforehand.
It’s important to note that sadly not all countries allow LGBT marriages. So be mindful of this and do your research before setting your heart on a specific destination if this applies to you. You can find a helpful tool on the British Government’s website to find out what you’ll need for each country.
If you are Planning a Location Wedding, Do visit before the big day
It may seem obvious, but do visit your chosen destination before you book. Photos and information online can be deceiving! And you may get a nasty surprise if all isn’t as promised when you arrive. Keep in mind that smaller, less popular destinations can be just as beautiful as the better known areas. Maybe even with a lower price tag. If you can, meet your suppliers and have a trial make-up and hair session with enough time to change plans as well.
Don’t put your dress in your suitcase
It’s a small but critical detail to plan for the journey of your wedding attire appropriately. It’s an unfortunate truth that suitcases do sometimes get lost, so consider taking your dress as a carry on item. Many airlines will have a coat closet where you can ask to hang your dress or suit! So you don’t have to worry about it going missing or being creased when you arrive.
Do consider the temperature
On the subject of clothing, remember to account for the weather of your chosen location and dress accordingly. Opt for linen suits over typical polyester mixes and dresses with less layers! Especially if you plan to get married somewhere more tropical than you’re acclimatised too. Ceremonies that start later in the day, after the strength of the midday sun has faded, will be much more comfortable for you and your guests. And be sure to pack plenty of sun cream!
Whilst there may be more to research and consider when planning a location wedding, it is surely worth the extra effort! Especially if you’re getting married amidst glorious beaches and the stunning, holiday-esque scenery of exotic destinations. There are many tools and resources available online to aid your planning and help you to have the wedding of your dreams.
Article by Leo Clarke for Wed2b
