Image by Claire Morgan via Alex and Philippe’s Austrian Winter Wedding

Whether it is an Austrian winter wedding or a surf-side Hawiian wedding you dream of, one thing for certain is a destination wedding takes a lot of effort to pull off, but they’re well worth it! Escaping the hustle and bustle of your usual surroundings and heading somewhere different can really put you and your guests in the mood to relax, switch off and focus on celebrating your marriage.

If you’re not someone who works in event planning (and even if you are!), planning the most important celebration of your life to take place abroad will come with certain challenges, some that you haven’t even thought of yet. Today we speak with Nelly Grange of wedOTahiti (who plans destination weddings in Tahiti for a living) and she gives us her top tips for planning the destination wedding of your dreams. 

Photo by Solas Wedding Photography via Jacqueline and Ricky’s Irish Wedding

LOCATION
Make sure you find a local wedding planner or a travel specialist who has visited your destination for advice about practical locations before confirming your travel arrangements and accommodation. You want to make sure your preferred location is convenient for yourselves and your guests.

Photo by Katja Anton of AKA Weddings via Stine and Truls’ Stunning Tuscany Wedding

BUDGET

Having an idea of budget will help you and your destination-wedding planner determine what your different options will be. A budget will help you make confident and informed decisions for your arrangements.

Image by Richard Ford via Ali and Lee’s Colourful Teepee Wedding

STYLE

  • Looking for inspiration online is great but make sure you’re realistic with your expectations. Some images online may be from styled shoots rather than real-life weddings…amazing for ideas but don’t forget your budget!
  • Remember that you are unique as a couple. There will be wedding coordinators who suit your style and will be able to fulfill your wants and needs for your special day. Make sure you do your research and you’ll find a wedding planner that suits you perfectly.

Image by Matt Reed Photography via Charlie and Rich’s Blissful Bali Wedding

EXPERIENCE

Don’t forget to make the most of your special day, totally embrace the experience and don’t stress. There are a few things that you can’t control, like the weather. If you’re marrying in a tropical climate, chances are it will be beautiful and sunny but if it does rain, don’t let it ruin the mood. The secret is to be prepared, whatever the weather!

Ms Zigzag says: I love how destination weddings take everyone out of their usual environment into somewhere new and exciting. There are often welcome events and post-wedding parties, where all of the guests really get a chance to know each other. 

About Nelly Grange of Wed O Tahiti: I help international couples plan a tropical beach wedding in Tahiti that combines a personal experience with striking landscapes and untouched beauty… no cookie-cutter resort packages allowed! My mission? Connecting my couples to great vendors & creating unique heartfelt ceremonies. With style.