A long distance wedding or a destination wedding is ideal for a couple who loves travelling or who have always dreamed of getting married in their favourite vacation spot. It’s also perfect for couples who live in different towns and wish to pick a location where they can meet in the middle. There are many details to consider when planning a long distance wedding so we’ve put this simple guide together to help you out. Here are 10 important things to remember when planning a long distance wedding…
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1. Decide on the type of wedding you want
Formal or informal, do think about the time of year and whether it would be a small or big wedding. Think about your budget and then choose the destination accordingly. Don’t forget to research marriage registration requirements and, if time/budget permits, go for a short visit to meet with vendors.
Photo via They Are Gorgeous
2. Plan ahead – plan early
Whether the destination you pick is a popular vacation spot or not; it pays to book everything early. It is especially important to get your invitations out as soon as possible too. Remember, your guests need to book their tickets and some might even need passports or visas. Planning earlier will also help you get better rates for blocking hotel rooms. The closer it is to the date, the more expensive rooms and flights would be.
3. Your wedding location could double as your honeymoon spot
If you both love beaches, then you could think about a beach wedding and then choose to honeymoon at the same spot. Many resorts are even known to offer package deals for this and you could save quite a bit of money. Your guests could also stay on for a few days after the wedding to enjoy the place. While you might be looking forward to some intimate time as a couple, it might also give you some quality time to spend with family members.
4. Don’t forget to check local weather conditions
Photo from Ross & Cara’s real wedding by Women in Wedding
The Caribbean may seem like the perfect spot to say ‘I Do’ in but it does have few months when hurricanes are most likely. So do check out the local weather conditions before zeroing on the time and venue of your long distance wedding.
5. Research marriage laws
Many countries have set rules and laws for marriage registration including proof of immunizations, residency requirements and so on. So do your research and, if needed, seek help from a local wedding planner who can let you in on these details upfront.
6. Book reputed vendors
When it comes to planning a long distance wedding, booking your caterer, florist, wedding photographer etc. might seem very difficult. Make sure every vendor you book has reviews or testimonials from clients on their social media pages. You could also speak to your local wedding planner or the resort you are working with. Most usually have a list of vendors they regularly work with and that surely eases the process.
7. Think about your guests
Photo by KT Merry via Style Me Pretty
If possible, do arrange for transportation and other details such as welcome packs so your guests know exactly where to go and what’s happening.
8. Use a wedding planner
A wedding planner can help you get in touch with vendors and can also highlight the specific laws you need to follow in the region. Many resorts are tied up with planners and can help you plan the wedding you have always dreamed of. Browse UAE wedding planners in the weddingsonline supplier directory!
9. Find local flavours and trinkets for guests
It is a great idea to gift your guests little trinkets from the area. These make for wonderful keepsakes of the wedding and your guests will love your thoughtfulness.
10. Don’t sweat the small stuff
Things can and will go wrong – so don’t sweat the small stuff. If it is an exotic wedding location, some guests may not be keen on attending. Understand that the time, cost and money involved will play a role in how many people attend the wedding. Such little hiccups are nothing in the grand scheme of things so just take it in your stride.
Main photo from Yes! Exclusive Wedding & Events
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