Destination Wedding Planning Guide

Planning a destination wedding is exciting, romantic, and full of possibilities, but it can also feel overwhelming if you don’t know where to start.

Between choosing the right destination, understanding guest travel, navigating timelines, and figuring out logistics, planning a wedding away is very different from planning one at home. That’s exactly why having the right guidance early on makes such a difference.

At GLOW Travel, we specialize in destination weddings and honeymoons, and we help couples plan unforgettable celebrations while managing the travel details and guest coordination behind the scenes. This guide is designed to walk you through the early stages of destination wedding planning so you can move forward with clarity and confidence.

Thinking about a destination wedding?
You can book a complimentary consultation to talk through your ideas and get clear on next steps.

👉Book your free destination wedding consultation

Why Couples Choose Destination Weddings

Destination weddings are about more than a beautiful backdrop. They’re about creating a shared experience.

Couples love destination weddings because they offer:

• A more intimate celebration with their closest family and friends

• Built-in time together before and after the wedding day

• Often lower overall costs compared to traditional weddings at home

• A seamless transition from wedding to honeymoon

Instead of a single rushed day, destination weddings feel like a meaningful getaway centred on love, connection, and celebration.

Step One: Choosing the Right Destination

One of the first and most important decisions you’ll make is where to get married. Your destination choice affects guest attendance, budget, planning timelines, and overall experience.

Some of the most popular destination wedding regions include:

Mexico
Known for easy travel, excellent all-inclusive resorts, and flexible wedding packages. It’s a favourite for couples looking for value, convenience, and great guest turnout.

The Caribbean
Ideal for couples dreaming of stunning beaches, relaxed island vibes, and a wide variety of destination styles, from lively to laid-back.

Europe
Perfect for couples seeking romance, history, culture, and something truly unique. European destination weddings often feel intimate and elevated.

The right destination isn’t just about what looks beautiful online. It’s about what works best for you and your guests. That’s where expert guidance can save you time, stress, and costly mistakes.

Resort Weddings vs Off-Site Weddings

There are two main styles of destination weddings, and both can be incredible when planned properly.

Resort Weddings

Resort weddings take place at all-inclusive properties and typically include:

• Built-in wedding packages

• On-site wedding coordinators

• Convenient accommodations for guests

• Simplified logistics for larger groups

Resort weddings are ideal for couples who value convenience and want everything in one location.

Not sure which option is right for you?
During a complimentary consultation, we’ll help you compare destinations and wedding styles based on your vision and guest list.

👉 Schedule a complimentary consultation

Off-Site Weddings

Off-site weddings are held at private venues such as:

• Beach clubs

• Villas

• Rooftops

• Historic or cultural venues

These weddings allow for more personalization and flexibility but require additional coordination, transportation, and planning. They’re a great option for couples looking for a truly unique experience.

There’s no right or wrong choice, just the one that best fits your vision, guest list, and priorities.

Understanding Guest Travel and Logistics

Guest travel is one of the biggest differences between a traditional wedding and a destination wedding, and it’s often where couples feel the most overwhelmed.

When you work with GLOW Travel, we:

• Set up group room blocks

• Manage booking deadlines and payments

• Act as the main point of contact for guest travel questions

• Coordinate flights, transfers, and special requests

This means you’re not spending your engagement answering emails or chasing RSVPs. Your guests feel supported, and you get to enjoy the planning process.

Feeling overwhelmed by guest travel logistics?

That’s exactly what we handle for our destination wedding couples.

👉Let’s talk about your destination wedding

Timing Your Destination Wedding

Most destination weddings are planned 12 to 18 months in advance, especially for popular destinations or peak travel seasons.

Your timeline may be influenced by:

• Weather patterns and hurricane seasons

• Resort and venue availability

• Group travel planning requirements

• School schedules and holiday travel

Starting early gives you more flexibility in choosing dates and destinations, allows time to thoughtfully plan guest travel, and helps ensure a smoother, less rushed planning experience overall.

Legal vs Symbolic Ceremonies

Destination weddings can be either legal or symbolic.

A legal ceremony is officially recognized in the destination country and requires specific documentation and timelines.

A symbolic ceremony allows you to complete the legal paperwork at home and enjoy a meaningful celebration abroad without the added complexity.

Many couples choose symbolic ceremonies for simplicity, but both options are available. We’ll help you understand the requirements so you can choose what works best for you.

Common Destination Wedding Mistakes to Avoid

Some of the most common mistakes couples make include:

• Choosing a destination without considering guest travel ease

• Underestimating group booking deadlines

• Trying to manage guest travel themselves

• Booking online without fully understanding contracts and fine print

• Waiting too long to secure dates and room blocks

Working with a destination wedding specialist helps you avoid these challenges entirely.

How GLOW Travel Supports You

When you work with GLOW Travel, you’re not just booking a trip. You’re gaining a trusted planning partner.

We provide:

• Expert destination and venue guidance

• Full guest travel coordination

• Clear timelines and expectations

• Honest, personalized recommendations

• Support from planning through wedding travel and beyond

Our goal is to make your destination wedding feel exciting, organized, and stress-free.

Ready to Take the Next Step?

If you’re dreaming of a destination wedding and want expert guidance from the very beginning, we’d love to help.

We offer complimentary consultations where we:

• Talk through your vision

• Explore destination and venue options

• Answer your questions

• Help you feel confident about next steps

No pressure, just clarity and support.

👉Book your free destination wedding consultation with GLOW Travel