Do
be thoughtful when choosing your destination. Try to avoid peak season if you think cost will be an issue, and stick to Europe rather than the Caribbean if guests will struggle to get much time off work.
Don’t
book anywhere without seeing it first, even if you know the area where it is located well. What looks like a light and spacious reception room on a website could actually be damp and dated.
Do
send “save the date” cards out at least six months in advance to give your guests enough notice to book time off work and get the best deals on flights and accommodation.
Don’t
be inflexible about where your guests stay, or what they do before and after your wedding. They may prefer to self-cater rather than stay in a resort, and sightsee on their own. Let them know where the ceremony is being held and give them details of several different accommodation options in the vicinity.
Do
give your guests as much information about the location as possible. It is a good idea to set up a wedding website (wedsite) with links and useful details they can use to plan their holiday, including tourist information, what the weather is like at that time of year, and links to local attractions.
Don’t
put pressure on your guests to attend, and don’t be offended if they can’t make it.
Do
let guests know you appreciate the added expense flying abroad will cost them rather than attending your wedding locally, by letting them know their presence is present enough.
Don’t
do it on your own. The benefits of hiring a destination wedding planner who knows the area, has links with reliable suppliers, and who speaks the language will be more than worth their fee.
Do
arrange a welcome pack to be waiting for your guests in their room when they arrive. Include some local information like a map or guidebook, snacks and drinks, and an itinerary of your wedding day and any other events you have organised.
Don’t
go to town with your wedding registry, but include a variety of items. While your guests will want to buy you a gift they may already be stretched paying for their flight and accommodation. On the other hand, those who can’t attend may still want to send a gift and have a larger budget to spend.
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