Is a Destination Wedding the Right Fit for You? Let’s Find Out, Y’all.

There’s something dreamy about saying “I do” with your toes in the sand, a soft ocean breeze playing with your veil, or maybe in a charming villa tucked away in the Italian countryside. Destination weddings can be pure magic, but they’re not for everyone. So, how do you know if planning one is the perfect match for your love story?

Let’s take a stroll through the pros and cons together, and figure out if a destination “I do” is right for you.

blog cover for destination weddings

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✈️ The Pros of a Destination Wedding

1. Built-In Beauty
One of the best parts of a destination wedding is the setting itself. Whether it’s a coastal breeze in Bermuda or mountain views in Colorado, your backdrop is often so naturally beautiful you don’t need to bring in a lot of extra décor. Nature becomes your venue designer!

Wedding

2. Smaller Guest Count, Bigger Experience
Let’s be honest: destination weddings naturally trim the guest list. That means your celebration can be more intimate, and you get to spend quality time with the people who matter most…no endless rounds of handshakes and cheek kisses.

bride and groom kissing
Jeff Tisman Photography

3. A Wedding and Vacation in One
Your guests get a getaway, and you get to start your honeymoon early. Everyone wins. Plus, you’ll create unforgettable memories that stretch far beyond just one day.

4. Unique & Memorable
A destination wedding tends to stand out. Your guests will remember the experience, the travel, and the fun forever—plus, it gives you a chance to make your celebration truly you.

wedding gown
Michael Romeo Creations

🌧️ The Cons (Let’s Call Them Considerations)

1. Travel Costs & Logistics
Flights, hotels, passports—oh my! You’ll need to factor in travel costs not just for yourself, but also for your guests and vendors. And if your Granny doesn’t fly, that might be something to think about.

2. Legal Requirements
Each country has its own marriage laws, and some are trickier than others. You may need to do a courthouse ceremony at home just to make everything legal.

bride and groom recessing down the aisle
People Magazine

3. Less Control Over the Details
You might not be able to do a walk-through of your venue months in advance. And while planning from afar can be exciting, it also requires trust and flexibility (and a fabulous wedding planner—you know I had to say it).

4. Not Everyone Will Be Able to Attend
This one can be the toughest. You may have loved ones who simply can’t make the trip, whether for financial, scheduling, or health reasons. That’s a big consideration if you can’t imagine your day without them.

close up of bride and groom
Photo by Asher Gardner Photography

So, Is It Right for You?

Here’s a little gut check:

  • You love travel and adventure.

  • You’re okay with a more intimate guest list.

  • You’re comfortable letting go of a little control (and trusting your planner to run the show).

  • You value experiences over tradition.

  • You’re not afraid of logistics and love the idea of celebrating somewhere meaningful.

bride and groom with petal toss
Dyanna LaMora

If you found yourself nodding “yes” to most of those, then honey, a destination wedding might be just the perfect way to tie the knot.

And if you’re still not sure? That’s what we’re here for, helping couples make the right call and design the kind of wedding that fits like a glove. Whether it’s across the world or right down the road, your love story deserves a beautiful beginning.

bride in the mountains
Jessica Janae Photography

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