All couples go through a similar experience when it comes to the end of their wedding day, there’s that feeling of wanting to do it all again. Couples just don’t want their special moment to end, and after putting so much effort into the planning – that’s understandable!
To avoid this feeling, we suggest a destination wedding. The unique experience of marrying abroad mean you can prolong all those unforgettable feeling. Initially, destination weddings was just a name for weddings in a paradisiacal destination abroad, but today we consider a every wedding that takes place outside a couple’s local town or city as a destination wedding.
Destination weddings may be a bit more complex in terms of the logistics and organisation but they are SO worth it. Plan an unforgettable experience for your friends and family, and above all, for you. We know it’s a big jump to take, so here’s the best planning advice and some top-notch recommendations.
1. Decide where to go
When it comes to deciding where to have a destination wedding, the world is literally your oyster , so you should think about which wedding style defines you, and from there, look for the perfect place (a beach, a mountain, a jungle, a big city …). This place should be somewhere for your guests to explore, with amazing views to make the flights all the more worth it – new cultural experiences are a bonus, too! Here comes a few amazing venue recommendations for destination weddings in Europe…
If you’re looking to get married in Spain, then we have some great ideas for you. Consider the beautifully authentic Southern city of Seville, where the atmosphere is relaxed and the views are gorgeous. Hotel Alfonso XIII is a particularly breathtaking venue with historical significance, so it makes the perfect place for a cultural, romantic and fairytale destination wedding. Standing since 1928 with stunning Iberian architecture, you won’t find anywhere better in the South of Spain to say your special vows!
Alternatively, head to the North of the country for a destination wedding in San Sebastian, a Basque city on the coast with fantastic cuisine, culture and rocky beaches. If so check out the impressive Hotel María Cristina, a venue that oozes elegance from every corner of its decadently decorated ballrooms and hotel rooms – say your ‘I Do’ in style!
If the Italian lifestyle and the city of Rome is more up your street, then look no further than Gran Melia, a luxury and urban resort that can accommodate for all of your guests and provide impeccable service on your big day, it’s also the perfect place to kickstart your honeymoon romance!
OR, there is the wonderful and diverse country of Portugal – how about it? There really is something for everyone. For a spectacular beach wedding consider Kailua – Fonte da Telha, which is a versatile restaurant venue for either casual or more lavish weddings in front of the glistening waves and incomparable sunset. If you would prefer an elegant city wedding in lovely Lisbon, check out LXFACTORY FÁBRICA XL and be amazed by their spacious venue. Lastly, for those couples who love expansive natural landscapes, Portugal also has a number of wine regions, such as Barranco Longo, where you will find the magical Quinta dos I’s vineyard venue!
2. Consider the number of guests
Another thing to consider when choosing your destination is how many guests you will want there. If you would love to have loads of your extended family and friends then try not to choose somewhere that’s difficult and expensive to get to, whereas, if it’s just you and a few close family members, then you can be more flexible.
3. Find a local wedding planner
A professional wedding planner who is local to the area will solve everything that you can’t fix from a distance, from the paperwork and legal requirements to the smallest details, through a network of the region’s best wedding suppliers. Since they know the location well, they will also be able to assist you in planning incredible holiday activities for your guests.
If it’s Europe you’re looking at, then we recommend beautiful Italy, possibly the most romantic country in the world for its art, culture and cuisine – not to mention the views!
4. Honeymoon destination
Imagine that you decide to get married in the Dominican Republic, on a paradisiacal beach in Punta Cana. You can turn your wedding venue into the destination for your honeymoon, which kills two birds with one stone. You’ll already be in one of the world’s most romantic spots for your first days as newlyweds. In addition, your guests can be part of the first days of your honeymoon and take advantage of the weekend to make their own travel memories.
5. Informal party
And if you’re thinking of all those people who wouldn’t be able to make it to your destination wedding, but you still want to celebrate them, then how about organising another, more informal, wedding party at home? A 2018 trend that we love is a hosting a wedding brunch – which will be great when the nerves have passed and you can enjoy more of your guests’ company.
As you can see, there are so many advantages and possibilities when it comes to destination weddings. So, if you want to host a spectacular wedding that everyone remembers, which you can combine with a honeymoon and a unique travel experience with your family and closest friends, then take our advice and plan your destination wedding today!
Don't want to miss out on the latest trends for your wedding?
Subscribe to our newsletter.
Leave a comment