Destination wedding tips from past Real Wedding couples

Over the years, we’ve helped plan many memorable weddings and enjoyed meeting incredible couples along the way who have a lot of insights to share about planning your big day in destination. The best advice often comes from experience, so we asked some of our past Real Wedding couples to share their top tips for tying the knot in paradise!

From insider scoop that will elevate your big day to tips and tricks they wish they had known, read on for tried and true advice from real couples who said “I do” in destination.

Bride and groom walking down an aisle on the beach Photo: John Lyons Photography

Plan ahead

“Plan as much as you can ahead of time so that when you get to the resort, it’s time to relax and unwind in paradise!” – Jessica & Edray, Volume 8 Issue 2

Jessica and Edray celebrated their island-inspired Real Wedding on a sparkling white-sand beach at Riu Palace Aruba.

Incorporate your style

“It’s absolutely possible to have a destination wedding yet still get the same customization and personalization as you expect at a wedding back home. Give some thought about how you want your day to look and start preparing early. Also, bring items from home to incorporate in your reception and ceremony – be creative!” – Karen & Ben, Volume 8 Issue 2

Karen and Ben won their dream destination wedding at Royalton Negril Resort and Spa after entering a contest in our magazine in partnership with Kleinfeld Hudson’s Bay and Maison Birks.

Groom carrying a bride along the beach at sunset Photo: Laura Kelly Photography

Trust the professionals

“Trust the wedding consultants! They know what they’re doing and will do everything they can to make your big day exactly as you envisioned it. Also, spend the extra money on a great photographer – even if that means flying them down. These pictures are with you for life – you won’t regret it!” – Krissy & Shayne, Volume 8 Issue 1

Past Real Weddings Photo Contest winners Krissy and Shayne started their forever with a picture-perfect seaside ceremony at Riu Palace Cabo San Lucas

Capture every moment

“Hire a videographer! They’ll be able to capture special moments that you may miss during the celebration – this way you can relive your special day for years to come” – Teresa & Germaine, Volume 9 Issue 1

Teresa and Germaine hosted their glamorous Real Wedding in Jamaica at Royalton White Sands Montego Bay.

Bride and groom posing on the beach Photo: Adventure Photos and Luna Gainza Photography

Cherish time with your loved ones

“Enjoy every single moment! It’s very rare for family and friends to get to spend a whole week with each other, so cherish the time you get to spend with all of them. Remember to take a deep breath now and then and remember that everything will turn out even more beautiful than you could have ever imagined!” – Natasha & Ben, Volume 8 Issue 2

Real Wedding couple Natasha and Ben exchanged their vows on a golden-sand beach at Secrets Huatulco Resort and Spa.

Enjoy stress-free celebrations

“Don’t get hung up on the small details – it’ll all work out! Having a destination wedding is pretty much the easiest way to get married since your knowledgeable wedding planner takes care of everything.” – Ashley & Chris, Volume 8 Issue 2

Ashley and Chris had their tropical Real Wedding in Playa del Carmen at Riu Yucatan.

Groom kissing a bride on the forehead Photo: Fostered Photo

See it for yourself

“We made sure to visit the resort prior to getting married there. This allowed us to get a lay of the land and made it easier to envision our ceremony and reception spaces.” – Lauren & Rob, Volume 9 Issue 1

Previous Real Wedding Photo Contest winners Lauren and Rob tied the knot in style at Riu Palace Cabo San Lucas.

Savour every moment

“Enjoy every moment – the day goes by so fast it’s hard to even process it when it’s happening! Ask your guests to take lots of pictures and videos so you can re-watch all your favourite candid moments in addition to shots from your professional photographer.” – Kristy & Christopher, Volume 8 Issue 2

During their Real Wedding at Riu Palace Cabo San Lucas, Kristy and Christopher shared their first married kiss overlooking Los Cabos’ legendary rock formations

Bride and groom kissing on the beach Photo: Sara Lynn Paige Photography

Most importantly, have fun!

“Don’t stress, just have fun – that’s why you chose a destination wedding in the first place!” ­– Brianna & Morgan, Volume 8 Issue 1

Real Wedding couple Brianna and Morgan’s said ‘I do’ in Panama at Riu Playa Blanca

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