The newly engaged couple’s guide to destination wedding planning

Sixteen to twelve months out

The buzz from the engagement is starting to wear off and now it’s time to get to business! Step one is to set a budget - determining how much you’re willing to spend on your big day will help determine what destinations and resorts would be most suitable. You should also start drafting your guest list, just note you’ll go through a couple variations before you finalize.

Next, connect with a wedding planner that specializes in destination weddings – enter our Wedding Consultants! They can break down important details like requirements for marriages in certain destinations, legal versus symbolic ceremonies, and can help narrow down the all inclusive resorts that match your wedding vision!

Eleven to nine months to go

At this point, you and your boo should have your respective bridesmaids and groomsmen established, along with the rest of the wedding guestlist so you can send out your Save the Dates! It’s also helpful to set up a wedding website and include the link in your Save the Dates, so that your guests have key information about travel, booking, and of course, your registry right at their fingertips.

Speaking of booking, you should be making the final call on your resort. The earlier you book, the better the rate – especially if you’re booking a block of rooms. Finally, say yes to that dress or tux – keep in mid the climate of your destination and how you will pack it to fly to your chosen paradise – we recommend packing in a garment bag and bringing it on board your flight.

Eight to six months before the big day

We’re almost there! With the resort selected, you can set your sights on the venue – whether that’s the white-sand beach at the resort, an elegant terrace, a lush garden gazebo, it’s your big day, so have it your way! Of course, our Wedding Consultants are available to help you consider your options and pick the perfect spot for your nuptials in paradise.

You should also finalize the menu with the on-site caterer as well as finalize vendors like a DJ, florist, photographer and videographer with our Wedding Consultants and the on-site coordinators. This is also a good point to establish rehearsal dinners, dress fittings, and the ever important bachelorette and bachelor parties! Lastly, get those wedding invites out the door and give your guests plenty of time to RSVP and review your wedding website for key details.

Five to three months left

The last few pieces are almost in place. Now is the time to hunt down anyone who hasn’t RSVP’d as you should be close to finalizing your guest list. This is also the period where rings should be purchased and kept in a safe place before you head to your destination. Speaking of, while your wedding day is a very important one it is one day of your wedding week in paradise, so you can start scheduling fun activities with your boo and your crew to enjoy both before and after your wedding to make the week one you’ll all remember for a lifetime. After some final fittings, start making a packing list so you know exactly what you need and won’t be running around looking for that swimsuit the night before your flight!

Two weeks to “I do”

It’s time to confirm, confirm, confirm – flight numbers, arrival times, seating arrangements, whatever it is, get those final numbers in now!

Five days before – AKA the final stretch

Double check your luggage to ensure you have everything you need secured, like your wedding bands and attire and Get. On. That. Plane! Once you arrive to your destination, meet with the coordinators and take a walkthrough of your ceremony and reception venue, have a tasting of your menu, book a last-minute mani-pedi or facial if you didn’t have one at home and don’t forget to enjoy every moment.

Day of: Cue wedding march!

The day has finally arrived! Make sure you give yourself plenty of time to get ready before you make your walk down the aisle. Once you’re in the thick of it, also take some time to do your rounds – greet all of your loved ones and thank them for making the journey with you. Lastly, take a step back and soak in the moment, so you can enjoy the start of the rest of your life with your soul mate.