The Ultimate Guide to Planning a Destination Wedding without Losing Your Mind

Villa Cipressi, Lake Como Wedding

So, you’re thinking about a destination wedding? First of all—HELL YES. There’s something so special about saying “I do” in a place that feels like a dream, surrounded by the people who mean the most to you. But let’s be real for a second—planning a wedding from miles (or countries) away can feel like a logistical nightmare if you don’t know where to start.

That’s where I come in. I’ve seen it all (seriously, from private villas in Italy to beachside vows in Mexico), and I’m here to help you make this as stress-free and FUN as possible. So grab a coffee (or a margarita, because, let’s be honest, you’re probably already imagining yourself on the beach), and let’s break this down.

French Chateau Wedding

Step 1: Pick a Destination That Feels Like YOU

A destination wedding should reflect your personality and love story. Are you both beach lovers who feel most at home with sand between your toes? Do you dream of a historic château in France dripping in old-world romance? Or maybe you want an intimate mountain elopement with just the two of you and a killer view?\

Consider:

✔️ Weather: Tropical vibes sound great—until you realize it’s hurricane season. Always check the best time to visit.

✔️ Accessibility: Will your VIP guests be able to get there easily?

✔️ Local Marriage Laws: Some places require residency periods or extra paperwork before making it official. (Or, you can do the legal stuff at home first and have a symbolic ceremony abroad—no judgment here!)

Wedding at Grand Teton National Park

Step 2: Hire a Planner Who Knows the Destination

Unless you’re fluent in the local language, know the best vendors, and love researching legal requirements for fun (weirdo), hiring a wedding planner with local expertise is a game-changer. They’ll know the best venues, handle communication, and make sure your wedding runs smoothly.

Pro tip: If a full-service planner isn’t in the budget, many offer partial planning or coordination services to help with the most overwhelming parts.

Bridal Portraits in Paris, France

Step 3: Choose a Photographer Who Travels (Hint: Hi, That’s Me 👋)

Listen, you do not want to leave your wedding photos in the hands of a resort photographer you’ve never met. Your wedding photos are your forever memories, and a destination wedding deserves someone who:

✔️ Understands your vision and style

✔️ Is experienced in traveling for weddings (because logistics matter)

✔️ Knows how to work with different lighting, landscapes, and cultural elements

✔️ Feels like a friend so you can actually enjoy your day instead of feeling awkward in front of the camera

Many photographers (like me!) specialize in destination weddings and will handle the travel details themselves, making it one less thing for you to worry about.

Wedding in St. Thomas, U.S.V.I.

Step 4: Give Your Guests Plenty of Time

A destination wedding isn’t just a one-day event—it’s a whole experience. The earlier you send out details, the better.

✔️ Send Save-the-Dates ASAP (at least 9-12 months in advance)

✔️ Include clear travel information (flights, accommodations, local activities)

✔️ Consider reserving a block of hotel rooms for guests

✔️ Be mindful of budgets—not everyone can afford to travel, so be gracious if some can’t make it

Wedding at Dunluce Castle, Northern Ireland

Step 5: Plan Events Beyond the Wedding Day

Your guests are traveling all this way—it’s fun to make it an unforgettable trip for everyone! Consider planning:

✔️ A welcome dinner or casual beach bonfire

✔️ A group excursion (wine tasting, snorkeling, city tour, etc.)

✔️ A day-after brunch to soak in the final moments together

The best destination weddings feel more like a fun getaway with loved ones than a rigid, stressful event.

Engagement Session in Tuscany, Italy

Step 6: Have a Backup Plan (Because, Well, Life Happens)

Mother Nature doesn’t always RSVP to weddings the way we want her to. If you’re planning an outdoor ceremony, have a solid backup plan in case of bad weather. A tent, an indoor space, or even just an umbrella stash can save the day.

And if something does go wrong? Lean into it. Some of the best wedding moments happen when things don’t go exactly as planned.

Wedding at Villa Canton – Bergamo, Italy

Step 7: Pack Smart & Arrive Early

✔️ Arrive at least a few days before the wedding to get settled and handle any last-minute details.

✔️ Pack your wedding attire in a carry-on bag (trust me, you do NOT want to risk lost luggage).

✔️ Bring travel-sized emergency kits for beauty, first-aid, and any last-minute fixes.

Lake Como Wedding

Final Thoughts: Make It About What Matters Most

At the end of the day, your wedding isn’t about the perfect venue, the most Pinterest-worthy décor, or the fancy-schmancy cake. It’s about the two of you, celebrating your love in a way that feels true to who you are.

So if that means a barefoot ceremony on a secluded beach? Do it.

A castle in Ireland with a moody, romantic vibe? Go for it.

A spontaneous elopement on a cliffside with just the two of you? Absolutely.

Whatever you choose, make it YOURS. And if you need a photographer who will hype you up, make you laugh, and capture the magic of your destination wedding? You know where to find me. Inquire now by clicking here.

Now, tell me—where’s your dream destination wedding spot? Drop it in the comments! ⬇️