How to Plan a Stress-Free Destination Wedding: A Step-by-Step Guide

Dream Big, Stress Less

Imagine this: you’re on a pristine beach, the golden sun dipping below the horizon as you exchange vows with the love of your life. Or perhaps you’re in a centuries-old castle, surrounded by rolling vineyards, saying 'I do' in a setting straight out of a fairytale. Sounds like a dream, doesn’t it? That’s the magic of a destination wedding.

Did you know that one in four couples now opt for a destination wedding? It’s no surprise—these weddings offer unforgettable experiences for both you and your guests. But let’s be honest: planning a wedding in a far-off location can feel overwhelming. Where would you even begin?

Relax, I’ve got this. Think of this step-by-step guide as your cheat sheet to going from ‘just engaged’ to ‘wedding of the year’—minus the stress. Let’s get started!

Step 1: Choose Your Dream Destination (and Keep It Real)

Picture your perfect wedding day. Are you standing barefoot on a sunlit beach in Mauritius, the gentle sound of waves as your soundtrack? Or maybe you’re exchanging vows in a romantic Italian villa, framed by rolling vineyards. Perhaps a clifftop chapel in Santorini, with sweeping views of the Aegean Sea, feels more like your fairytale. Whatever your vision, a destination wedding brings it to life.

Start by narrowing down your options, and ask yourselves:

• What’s the vibe we’re going for? Romantic and secluded? Bold and adventurous? Laid-back luxury?
• Who’s on our guest list? Will they be willing to travel, or are we planning an intimate elopement?
• What’s our budget? (Don’t worry—I’ll help you make the most of it!)
• Are we going to combine our wedding with the honeymoon, or fly off somewhere else after the wedding? 

Set a Realistic Budget

Destination weddings can be surprisingly affordable or wildly extravagant, depending on your choices. Here’s what to consider:

• Flights and accommodation for you and your guests
• Venue rental and catering
• Wedding packages vs. custom planning
• Hidden costs like permits, local taxes, and marriage license fees

Pro Tip: Look for all-inclusive resorts or curated wedding packages—they often save you time and money.

Pick the Perfect Date

Timing is everything. Here’s how to choose an ideal date:

• Avoid monsoon or hurricane seasons (unless you’re okay with a little rain!).
• Check peak tourist seasons to avoid higher prices and crowded venues.
• Consider guest availability, especially if you’re inviting families with school-age children.

Top Legal Wedding Destinations

Some destinations make it easier to legally marry abroad without the need for additional paperwork and processes here in the UK. Here are a few favourites:

• Mauritius: Simple paperwork and recognised worldwide
• Jamaica: No residency requirement and quick processing
• Portugal: Straightforward marriage laws and stunning venues

Step 2: Find the Perfect Venue

Once you’ve picked your destination, it’s time to find the perfect venue. This is where your vision comes to life!

Types of Destination Wedding Venues

• Beach Resorts: All-inclusive packages with planners, catering, and decor.
• Historic Castles & Villas: Ideal for elegant, intimate weddings.
• Vineyards & Countryside Estates: Perfect for a rustic, romantic vibe.

Key Questions to Ask Your Venue

• Does it include a wedding planner or coordinator?
• What’s the guest capacity, and is there a backup plan for bad weather?
• Are there noise or curfew restrictions?
• Does the venue offer wedding packages or customisation options?

Top Destination Wedding Venues

• Mauritius: Beachcomber Resorts with all-inclusive wedding packages.
• Spain: Villa Luisa, Seville, with stunning Spanish architecture.
• Italy: Castello di Vincigliata, Florence, for a fairytale Tuscan wedding.

If visiting in person isn’t an option, request a live video tour before booking.

Step 3: Build Your Destination Wedding Dream Team

Planning a wedding from another country requires a strong team of vendors. Here’s who you’ll need:

Key Vendors to Secure

• Wedding Coordinator: Essential for handling local logistics, legal requirements, and vendor coordination. Particularly if your venue doesn't include planning, or the vendors aren't built into a curated package. 
• Photographer & Videographer: Choose someone experienced with your chosen venue, and who has a portfolio that aligns with your vision. 
• Caterer: Decide between a local menu for authenticity or a more traditional menu for familiarity.
• Florist & Decor: Check that they understand the local climate with suitable flowers and material options.

Pro Tip: Ask for local recommendations from your chosen venue. They will often be more affordable, and they'll be familiar with the venue already - knowing the optimal spots for photos or the ideal spot to display the cake.

Step 4: Sort the Legalities & Guest Logistics

Prepare For The Local Marriage Requirements

Understanding the legal requirements and ensuring you can comply with them should be part of your destination vetting process in Step 1. It is a good idea to reconfirm your understanding of them, and find any documents you will require ahead of time to avoid last-minute stress. 

Manage Guest Travel & Accommodation

• Enquire about group rates for flights and hotels.
• Consider setting up a wedding website to share key information, including travel tips, itineraries, and dress codes.
• Plan pre-wedding events like welcome dinners, boat cruises, or casual gatherings.

Pro Tip: Send save-the-date invitations at least 9-12 months in advance to give guests time to plan.

Step 5: Pack Smart & Prepare for the Unexpected

Wedding Packing List

• Wedding attire (choose wrinkle-resistant fabrics where you can).
• Documents in hand luggage - ensure you have certified or original copies of important documents required for your ceremony (birth certificates, passports...etc).
  
• Emergency bridal kit (stain remover, safety pins, tissues, pain relievers).
• Wedding favours to show appreciation and provide memorabilia for any guests who made the journey to celebrate with you.

Prepare for the Unexpected

• Have a backup plan for weather conditions.
• Confirm alternative vendors in case of last-minute cancellations.
• Consider wedding insurance for added security.
• Check with the venue, or your hotel/resort if they offer steamers or dry cleaning - in cases where that gorgeous dress you just 'had to have' doesn't travel well.

Step 6: Relax & Enjoy the Moment

Once everything is in place, focus on being present. Here’s how:

• Arrive 3-5 days early to finalise details and adjust to the location.
• Delegate tasks to your wedding planner, friends, or family members.
• Trust your vendors and allow yourself to enjoy the day.

Final Tips for a Stress-Free Destination Wedding

• Dream big, but stay realistic. Focus on what truly matters - celebrating your love.
• Communicate clearly with your guests. Keep them informed and excited about the journey.
• Take time for yourselves. This is your special day, so savour every moment.

Need Expert Help?

At The Holiday Artist, we specialise in creating stress-free, luxurious destination weddings. From finding the perfect venue to handling all the details, we’re here to make your dream wedding a reality.

Ready to start planning? Contact us today for a free consultation and let’s turn your vision into an unforgettable celebration!

Why Choose Holiday Artist?

• Award-winning wedding planners with years of experience.
• Personalised service tailored to your unique vision.
• Global network of trusted vendors and venues.

Don’t just dream it - live it. Your dream destination wedding is just a click away.