Despite representing a recent world trend, wedding tourism felt a growth of 75% the past few years, which shows this market, specifically, the destination weddings niche, is proving to have an optimistic development (Pereira et al., 2022).
I’m Melissa Wilpotte, a destination wedding planner passionate about travelling and world cultures who has helped dozens of couples create elegant celebrations across France, Europe and beyond. My experience coordinating logistics, negotiating with local vendors and designing bespoke experiences gives me a unique insider’s view of how destination weddings really work.
In this article, I’ll share everything I’ve learned about destination weddings : from what they truly mean and how to choose the right location, to the benefits, average costs and guest tips. Whether you dream of a castle in France, a sunlit beach in Greece or a vineyard in Italy, this guide will help you plan a celebration that reflects your style and your story.
If you’re considering a destination wedding, keep reading and you'll find practical insights, proven tips and creative ideas to turn your vision into reality.
What does destination wedding mean
A definition of what a destination wedding is
Having a destination wedding involves couples exchanging vows in a location away from their hometown in a magical setting like tropical beaches, picturesque European towns, serene vineyards or wedding venues like castles. It’s about crafting an occasion that merges the wedding festivities with a getaway vibe. These weddings usually have an intimate guest list to create a connected and personal atmosphere, with only your dearest friends and family members present. The wonderful aspect of it all? Having the chance to rejoice in your affection, in a location creating memories that will endure forever.
Domestic or International destination wedding
Destination weddings can be held in various locations, including domestic destinations or international destinations such as the Caribbean, Mexico, and Europe if you are from the United States for example. The choice of location often depends on the couple’s preferences, budget, and the number of guests they plan to invite. Whether you dream of a tropical beach, a historic city, or a scenic countryside, there are endless possibilities for your wedding destination. les possibilités sont infinies.
How to choose your destination wedding ?
Couples often choose a destination wedding location for its beauty, romance, its space for the guests or if it has a special meaning to them. For example, a couple may choose a beach destination for its picturesque views, a mountain resort for its scenic landscapes, or a city destination for its cultural attractions.
Exemple de mariage à destination
Throwback to that wedding at chateau haut smith lafitte
And there are many other wedding venues in France you might like ! Check this article to get inspired.
What are the benefits of a destination wedding?
A wedding lasting several days
A destination wedding can allow you to design a longer event, since guests are all traveling far from home and will have no choice but to plan several days there anyway. This gives you the opportunity to design a multi-day event and allow guests to spend more time together, which will obviously give your wedding a special feel.
A wedding with your dearest loved ones
This type of wedding creates a unique, more immersive atmosphere because it often brings together a smaller group of guests than a traditional wedding (although there's no unwritten rule preventing you from inviting 200 people to a destination wedding). It is also an opportunity to break away from the traditional wedding format, which typically invites childhood friends, extended family, parents' friends, etc. Fewer guests allow the bride and groom to enjoy more of those who are there, and creates a more enjoyable experience for the loved ones present, who can get to know each other much more easily than at an event with more than 200 people. When getting married close to home, it's sometimes difficult to escape the pressure of family and/or friends and dare to design an event that's a little out of the ordinary. Planning your wedding abroad can give the couple some flexibility and allow them to create an event that's more outside of the box. (Ritter et al., 2020)
The atmosphere of your wedding photography
All of the above points contribute to creating a different look for your images if you choose a destination wedding. A smaller group of guests, together for a longer period of time, to experience a break from their daily routine, will inevitably give a special touch to your wedding report. More intimate, without a doubt. Getting married abroad also means that you may have more freedom to choose your wedding venue than if you stayed close to home, since guests will have to travel and take several days off work to attend your nuptials. You therefore have the opportunity to choose a venue that is symbolic to you, or one that appeals to you because of its aesthetic, lighting, atmosphere, etc. So, as I see it, a destination wedding can be an opportunity to get married in a place that inspires your dreams, whose atmosphere will permeate your images. The atmosphere of a wedding shoot is shaped by the location where it takes place, and when that location is bathed in a particular ambiance and light, it reflects in the images. This is especially true if you choose to work with an experienced wedding photographer who has a natural appetite for detail such as Cesare, a photographer with whom I collaborated on weddings.
What is the average cost of a destination wedding?
Destination weddings aren't a one-size-fits-all expense; the price tag for your big day can vary wildly based on a variety of factors, including:
- Travel expenses associated with your destination
- Number of guests
- Type of wedding venue
- Whether you hire a destination wedding planner ;
- Your vendors including the wedding photographer
- Whether you cover costs for your wedding guests
But don’t worry, even with so many variable costs, there's a lot of room to bring down those expenses if you start in advance.
What are some tips for guests attending a destination wedding?
What to wear as a guest to a destination wedding
Guests should be aware of any particular dress code the couple has promoted on either their wedding website or invitation. This will help knowing what to pack and wear to each event while away. Some couples may opt for a casual seaside affair, where sandals and sundresses are appropriate if the wedding takes place in summer. Other destination wedding dress codes may be more formal and require long linen pants for men and floor length dresses for women. If you're unsure, consider the location and climate. A mid-day beach wedding will call for more casual (and breathable) outfit choices, while an evening event in a ballroom or church may require dressier attire.
Being a Bridesmaid or Groomsman in a Destination Wedding
Being asked to be a bridesmaid or groomsman in a destination wedding is an honor and something to get really excited about! It can, however, come with some challenges and bring about certain etiquette questions you may not be sure how to navigate. While your overall responsibilities will mostly be similar to that of a traditional wedding, you may want to consult the bride or groom to get an idea of what they need and expect from you both throughout the planning process and while celebrating in your destination.
Bringing a Gift to a Destination Wedding ?
Bringing a gift to a destination wedding is usually optional. It is a thoughtful gesture that shows your love and support of the couple, however the decision ultimately depends on your personal circumstances and the couple's preferences. Some couples may even explicitly request no gifts at all and simply specify that your presence is a present!
Bringing Kids to a Destination Wedding ?
Before you bring your kids to a destination wedding, you should make sure that they are welcome/invited by the couple. Then you can start to weigh the pros and cons of bringing them with you. Think about the overall experience you want to have and whether or not children fit into that vision.
To you who are reading me: thank you for reading this destination wedding guide that I had the chance to share with you here, I hope it helped you !
Now that you know everything, are you ready to start planning your destination wedding in France or Europe ?
Don’t hesitate to contact me to discuss your vision or ask questions.