The answer to this question isn’t as straightforward as one might hope. It can vary widely depending on several factors, including the complexity of your wedding vision, the location of your destination, and your level of preparedness.
Can you plan a destination wedding in 12-18 months?
Of course! It’s advisable to start planning about 12-18 months before your desired wedding date to provide ample time to secure the venue, accommodations, and vendors. Allowing up to 18 months also allows you to plan your special day without feeling rushed and gives you time to deal with any unexpected challenges that may arise.
**It’s important to note that you should be cautious of planning everything too soon. If you plan everything too far in advance, things might end up changing and you’ll find yourself re-planning, which can often negatively impact your wedding day.
Can you plan a destination wedding in 6-12 months?
Planning a destination wedding 6-12 months in advance can still be sufficient, especially if your destination wedding location is less popular. A 6–12 month timeframe may require some flexibility regarding vendor availability but will still allow you to fine-tune all the details without getting too overwhelmed.
Can you plan a destination wedding in 3-6 months?
For a smaller, less elaborate wedding, you can plan a destination wedding in as little as 3-6 months. However, you’ll have to be flexible with your choices as your options may be limited, especially for in-demand venues and vendors.
Can you plan a destination wedding in less than 3 months?
While planning a destination wedding on short notice is possible, it can be challenging. Prioritize what truly matters to you and be prepared to make quick decisions, as many venues and vendors may already be booked.
Ideally, you should allow 12–18 months to plan your dream destination wedding. To help with your planning timeline, use our handy Destination Wedding Planning checklist below and consider the following key steps:
1. Choose Your Destination (12-18 months in advance) Research and select a destination that suits your vision and budget. Not all sunny destinations are the same, and weather patterns, flight times, and currency exchange rates are just a few things to consider.
2. Budgeting (12-18 months in advance)
Determine your budget and set aside funds for various aspects of the wedding, including travel expenses, accommodations, venue, and vendors. Be realistic about your costs and consider a contingency fund for any unexpected costs. Prioritize your wedding funds to get the most personal use and experience out of your budget. For instance, if you and your future spouse are foodies, adding more budget to meals and cutting back on some decor may make sense to you.
3. Venue Selection (12-18 months in advance)
Secure a venue for the ceremony and reception. Booking your venue is often one of the first steps in planning as it influences nearly every aspect of your wedding day. This is one of the most crucial details, as it can take time to ensure the venue can accommodate all your wants, needs, and wishes and work within your budget.
4. Accommodations (12 months in advance, or as soon as venue is secured)
Research and arrange accommodations for yourselves and your guests. Consider room blocks at hotels or rental properties. There are some rules to follow here. In most all-inclusive resorts, for instance, you are contractually obligated to ensure that a minimum number of guests attending the wedding are staying at the resort. Guests staying at an off-wedding venue location may be required to purchase a day pass to enter the resort on the wedding day. Set up room blocks and accommodations as soon as you secure the wedding date with your venue. It is important to give your guests ample time to know where they’re going, when, and how much it will cost.
5. Guest List (12 months in advance for save-the-dates, 6 months for invitations)
Create a guest list and send out save-the-date cards and invitations well in advance to allow guests to plan their attendance. Be mindful of your venue’s capacity and travel requirements. Typically save-the-dates go out 12 months before the wedding and the invitations go out 6 months prior, with a 90-day R.S.V.P.
NOTE: Do not send out save-the-dates, and invitations prior to finding your venue and securing it with a deposit and contract. Avoid confusion for your guests by not having to make changes to the venue and wedding/travel dates.
6. Travel Arrangements (6-9 months in advance)
Plan transportation to and from the destination for yourselves and your guests. Consider group rates or shuttle services. It is highly recommended that you use a Travel Agent. There are many moving parts for the supplier, hotel, airline, transfers, etc. to manage with 40, 50, or 100 people traveling together from different cities. This should be arranged immediately upon picking your destination and venue.
7. Vendor Selection (3-9 months in advance)
Choose and book reliable vendors, such as a photographer, caterer, florist, and entertainment. Ensure they are familiar with destination weddings. Make sure to read reviews and book a consultation with them if you really want to understand their offers and set expectations. Typically, vendors need a minimum of 90 days’ advance notice for bookings. Some highly sought-after vendors may require a longer timeframe to ensure they have availability.
8. Legal Requirements (90 days in advance)
Understand the legal requirements for getting married in your chosen destination, including any necessary paperwork and waiting periods. For most caribbean countries, legal documents will have a shelf life of 90 days. Contacting a local authority or working with an experienced wedding planner will ensure all legalities are covered 90 days before your wedding.
9. Local Details (90 days in advance)
Research and plan for local details, such as marriage licenses, permits, and any specific cultural or logistical considerations of the destination. This should be done no more than 90 days before the wedding.
10. Weather and Season (consider when choosing a date, then check 1-2 weeks in advance for weather forecast)
Consider the weather and seasons at your chosen destination, as this will impact your planning and wardrobe choices. Make sure to check the forecast a week or two before the date so you are fully prepared for all weather conditions.
Backup Plan
Always have a backup plan in case of unexpected weather or other issues. Ensure your vendors are prepared to adapt to any situation that may arise.
Remember that destination weddings can be more complex to plan than local weddings due to the distance, potential language barriers, and different legal requirements. It’s important to work with experienced wedding planners and vendors who are familiar with destination weddings to make the process as smooth as possible.
Download our handy wedding planning checklist to stay organized!
