fbpx

It’s all in the details: Planning a destination wedding down to the tiniest elements

Your wedding is one of the most important days of your life, the one that you’ll always have special memories about, so it makes sense that you’ll want everything to be perfect. Irregularities and errors can cause a lot of trouble and put a damper on the festivities, so it’s important to have a comprehensive…

Published: January 22, 2025

Your wedding is one of the most important days of your life, the one that you’ll always have special memories about, so it makes sense that you’ll want everything to be perfect. Irregularities and errors can cause a lot of trouble and put a damper on the festivities, so it’s important to have a comprehensive plan from the very beginning in order to avoid this possibility. When you have your mind set on a destination wedding, things can seem even more daunting because you’re out of your comfort zone. 

However, if this is your plan, it would be a shame if you don’t get to stick to it due to worries. With that in mind, here are some of the things you should take into consideration when planning a destination wedding.

Photo by: Marc A. Sporys
What is a destination wedding? 

Destination weddings are wedding ceremonies that are hosted away from your hometown. As a result, the wedding party and the guests have to travel to a different location. Dealing with the logistics of that can seem like a nightmare, but there are many who choose this alternative in order to make the day even more memorable. Depending on the location and the type of ceremony you’d like, a destination wedding can be less expensive than one taking place in your city. The main reason for that is that you’re more likely than not to have a smaller reception and a decreased guest list since there are many people who won’t feel inclined to travel to a different country or even a different continent for a wedding. 

However, careful planning remains a necessity due to several variables, such as different weather conditions or the intricacies of global travel and the restrictions associated with it. Some of them are nothing more than minor hindrances, but some can actually affect your ability to go through with the ceremony. 

Bridesmaid dresses 

One of the universally accepted facts about weddings is that it is supposed to be the bride’s day. It is why bridal gowns are so elaborate and attention-grabbing, why guests are advised to avoid white and any other similar shades, and why brides can sometimes deal with stress and apprehension before the ceremony. The pressure of having everything be perfect can be quite challenging to deal with. The bridesmaids are an essential part of the proceedings, and their duties center around assisting the bride with anything she needs, as well as attending rehearsals, helping with errands, giving toasts, buying wedding presents, and either finding the perfect outfit or wearing the one the bride wants. 

Finding the perfect dress for a bridesmaid can be quite a tough job because you’ll need to get something that completes the wedding ensemble and fits the theme, looks good and elegant, and complements the bride’s dress but is not too much so that it can earn accusations of trying to overshadow the bride. And, of course, the dress should also be comfortable enough to allow the bridesmaid to go about her day and attend to her duties. Finding the perfect mix of all these qualities is no simple task. 

It’s important to search for the perfect gown carefully before settling on something. There are many different styles out there to choose from. The long dresses are the most standard design and the safest regardless of the theme of the wedding. Colors such as deep forest green, dusty rose, navy blue, vermillion, lilac, steel grey, or turquoise are all perfect for the occasion, but the cut of the dress will naturally matter as well. Cowl necklines paired with spaghetti straps have become quite popular over the last few years because they create such flattering silhouettes. 

Long-sleeved dresses will look more sophisticated, especially if they have a V-neck and a ruched bodice that can accentuate the waistline. Boat necklines also work well with long sleeves, but make sure that the dress you choose is flowy and made from a soft material such as chiffon, as stiffer fabrics can make you look too austere and stern. Pleated bodices and cinched waistbands are often chosen for dresses following A-line cuts as they make the overall look more graceful. 

Mother of the bride 

The mother of the bride will also have some important duties to attend to, such as assisting the bride with the preparations and supporting her throughout the day, managing the guest list and the pre-wedding events, welcoming the guests, scouting for venues, assisting with the seating, and being the vendor contact. Just as in the case of the bridesmaids, she must also find the perfect dress for the occasion. A V-neck collared dress with an asymmetrical cut is a perfect choice in this case, especially in colors such as dark navy or rosewood. 

If you’d like something that feels dainty and softer, look for something with lace detailing and accents on the bodice and sleeves. When applied to chiffon, lace can create the illusion of an additional neckline, making the gown a little more unique. Not all dresses need to be very long, though. You can find amazing gowns ending just below the knee if you prefer something a little more informal. Just make sure the dress has a beautiful bodice and is made from high-quality fabrics that will create a stunning silhouette. 

The advantages 

Having a destination wedding means you get the chance to tie the knot in a dream location and make an already special day even more memorable. If a certain place is particularly important to you and your future spouse, holding the ceremony there will make things even more special. Having a smaller guest list also means that you will prioritize the people you are closest to and have an amazing time. The risk of issues and disturbances occurring at the wedding is also significantly reduced. The potential to save money cannot be neglected either and can matter a lot given how expensive weddings can get. 

However, it’s essential to plan carefully, have a definitive guest list, a comprehensive wedding budget, and ensure the timing for everything is right. Take care of that, and you’re already halfway there. 

Written by: Bogdan