A destination wedding sounds like an exotic vacation and romantic nuptials all wrapped up in one, but this image isn’t rooted in reality. If you were considering planning this kind of wedding, you might want to rethink that. Here are seven reasons why.
1. Your Guests May Not Attend
Expect a sparse guest list. Not everyone will be excited to shell out additional money for your expensive party, and you may find more guests politely RSVP’ing “Not Attending.” Think about your older relatives who you want there, from your grandparents to elderly aunts and uncles. The distance might be too far and simply too tough to manage.
While you see this as an opportunity for an intimate wedding, the people you really want there may be unable to make the journey, due to distance, finances, and work. Asking guests to travel is a big request. Consider whether it’s truly doable for the important people in your life.
2. It’s Pricey
Destination weddings can add up very quickly, particularly if it’s an exotic location. Far-flung escapes and remote cities will cost more than your typical all-inclusive resort down south. How much does the average wedding cost in Canada? By the time the destination wedding is paid for, it may not be that much of a difference.
3. Forget about Wedding Gifts
Your wedding should never be about the gifts you’ll receive, but it is nice to get that brand-new Kitchen-Aid mixer. As guests are now paying significantly simply to be present at your wedding, you can expect that to be their only gift. If you’re getting hitched in a distant locale, expect fewer wedding gifts. There’s simply less cash to go around when guests are fronting other costs.
4. It’s Not Much of a Honeymoon
This kind of wedding might seem like a two-in-one deal, but when you’re constantly surrounded by family and friends who choose to stay a few days after the wedding, you’ll find your honeymoon cut short.
You might find yourself missing that special alone time you wanted, and you could quickly find yourself sharing the whole trip with your guests. You could schedule couples-only activities, such as massages and private dinners, but it isn’t the same.
5. You’re Not in Control
Planning a wedding long-distance makes it hard to get the full picture. You’re fully dependent on the resort, and if you like being in control, this isn’t your type of wedding.
Even with a coordinator, the big decisions, including food, flower, and décor, have to be made without seeing them in advance. A destination wedding doesn’t translate into stress-free wedding planning.
6. The Legalities Involved
Do your research beforehand. Many couples forget about the requirements to obtain a marriage license abroad. You want to ensure that you are legally married in the country you have your wedding. Countries often require proof of a birth certificate and a valid passport. You’ll find yourself juggling wedding details long-distance on many fronts, which can be stressful.
7. 24/7 Hosting Duties
Holding a wedding far away brings up a lot of bonding time. With your friends and family present, you want to ensure everyone is having a good time, and this duty alone can be stressful.
You’ll be greeted by guests at breakfast, by the pool, and everywhere else. Your guests are travelling far and will likely add a day or two before or after the wedding. You’ll find yourself ensuring they’re happy, comfortable, and entertained the entire trip, and that can be tiring.
