Many couples dream about tying the knot away from their hometown. Destination weddings are becoming increasingly popular, and it is easy to imagine why. They are a unique, once-in-a-lifetime experience for the couple and everyone attending. What can be more romantic than saying the vows with your loved one in a place that has a special meaning for both of you? Getting married away from home is a fantastic way to turn the wedding day into something more than just a single-night event. The following tips will help you plan a wedding in another city, which will signify the beginning of a whole new life with your dearest love.
Have your vision set
Planning a wedding in another city requires you to be immaculately organized. First and foremost, you should allow yourself enough time to define your expectations. Once you have a clear outline of what those are, a wedding planner will help you streamline the entire process and enact your vision.
The following are vital elements you should decide upon at the earliest when planning to host an out-of-town wedding:
Ideal location. Just like any love story, each marriage ceremony is a unique event. The perfect spot for your destination wedding should say something about your shared passions and who you are as a couple. Besides the overall vibe and mood of the big day, the location you pick will determine the travel and budget requirements, too.
Right timing. To pull off the wedding of your dreams, you have to prepare timely. Hence, do thorough research and check the requirements of your preferred venues. Some of them require booking up to 16 months in advance. Work out your guest list as early as possible, and send out your save the dates at least eight months ahead. Allow ample time for your guests to adjust their schedules and sort out travel arrangements.
Legal requirements. If you plan to tie the knot in a different country, get to know the local marital laws and requirements. Many couples opt to make their marriage official before they travel to their wedding destination. That way, you may enjoy the big day with the legal complexities.
Getting married in a city that has special meaning for both of you is an amazing way to start your journey together.
Photo by Dimitri Kuliuk via Pexels
Planning a wedding in another city and your budget
It is not a secret that weddings are costly. They are once in a lifetime opportunity, and going big certainly creates precious, lifelong memories. However, jetting off to an exotic land or a popular city doesn’t necessarily mean spending more than you can afford. You can benefit from wedding packages tailored to your expectations and indulge in an exciting getaway while eliminating big chunks of stress coming along with your wedding planning.
Destination weddings typically involve fewer guests than at-home ceremonies. In turn, this enables couples to stick within a budget, despite transportation and accommodation costs. The guest count is a significant factor in your wedding budget. Thus, narrow down your list to the closest friends and relatives if your objective is to cut costs or host the event in a more intimate atmosphere.
Creating your guest list
When planning a wedding away from home, couples choose a location with a personal significance to them. It can be a place that you always wanted to visit or the city in which you’ve first met. It can also be a city that you’ve just moved to with the help of Best Long Distance Movers. Whatever the circumstances, you need a solid plan to ensure your loved ones join you on the big day, so you celebrate the special event together.
It is essential to consider that your guests will likely have varying budgets. Some of them might not be able to attend your out-of-town wedding unless you take covering the costs upon yourself. Hence, ensure you have plenty of time to talk to everyone you intend to invite and create your guest list based on their availability.
Plan your guest list well in advance, as weddings away from home have fewer attendees due to the travel factor.
Photo by Alvaro CvG via Unsplash
Destination wedding etiquette
Certainly, it is vital to be considerate of your guests and implement a few common courtesy rules. After all, you are asking them to take time off and organize a trip to attend your nuptials. Therefore, give them a heads up well in advance and plenty of time to coordinate their schedules. Besides, here are a few noteworthy points to ensure you are following proper etiquette when planning a wedding in another city:
Set up a wedding website. This is a practical way to give your guests a sneak peek at what exactly you are planning, so they can prepare accordingly. If you are getting married in a different country, include information about the weather, what to pack, and tidbits on the local culture. Also, your wedding website can be a great resource to help you set up a
Arrange transportation to the lodgings. No matter the distance that your guests have traveled to attend your wedding in another city, consider providing them with transportation to the wedding hotel room block. Although this is not mandatory, it surely adds a nice touch to the whole experience, and it’s pretty easy to arrange.
Organize a welcome party. Once everyone has arrived, wish them a warm welcome over some refreshing drinks. This is also a great chance to introduce guests than may not know each other.
Plan activities and excursions
Attending a wedding in another city is as exciting for the guests as it is for the couple hosting it. But, along with many other tasks you need to take care of, organizing side activities may feel like an overwhelming responsibility. Nevertheless, even small weddings need a wedding planner to ensure the desired experience. They can be an invaluable resource to help you out organize a fun program for your guests too. Hence, talk to your planner and see if they can set up a tour or an activity that your guest will love and fondly remember for the years to come.
Leave it in the skillful hands of your wedding planner to set up some fun activities for your guests.
Photo by Mitchell Orr via Unsplash
Final thoughts
Planning a wedding in another city is a magical experience in and on itself. It is a once-in-a-lifetime opportunity, so embrace it with enthusiasm and make precious long-lasting memories. Eliminate unnecessary stress with the help of a professional wedding planner, and make your dream wedding come true.
This is a guest blog post. Risa James Events has no financial relationship with any companies that may be linked within the post.