How to Have Your Destination Wedding Without Losing Your Friends

How to Have Your Destination Wedding Without Losing Your Friends

A destination wedding gives your guests the opportunity to combine your nuptial celebration with an unforgettable vacation, but that doesn’t always make the logistics easy. Destination events can put a lot of strain on your guests, and you want to make sure you’re not piling on so much stress that you lose some friends in the process. Use these tips to keep organizing your destination wedding easy for everyone involved.


Make Their Presence a Present

Make it clear to your guests that you don’t want any gifts for your wedding. Your guests are already forking over airfare, paying for their hotel room, and investing in many of the meals and activities that go with a tropical vacation. Even if you cover an excursion or two, attending your wedding will involve a major investment. Let your guests know that just being there is a gift, so they don’t have to add any more strain to their travel budget.


Assist with Travel Arrangements

Make it as easy as possible for your guests to get to the destination. Research airfare and point everyone in the right direction so they can book the cheapest flight possible. Arrange for an airport shuttle and transportation to and from the hotel and wedding destination if possible. Book a block of rooms at a nearby hotel or on a cruise ship, so it’s easy for guests to find a comfortable place to stay. Share essential information regarding passports, local customs and laws, and other important elements for your event.


Give Guests an Agenda

Your wedding invitation will include the essentials for your ceremony and reception, but a destination wedding typically involves additional activities. Send a newsletter or agenda to guests who RSVP about a month before the big day. Let them know about any additional activities like a welcome dinner, day-after brunch, or group excursions. Include this information on your wedding website as well, so it’s easy to find.

While the bride and groom are still the center of the festivities at a destination wedding, it’s important to give your guests a little extra care and attention when you’re planning this type of event. Since most destination weddings are easy packaged deals, you can invest a little extra time in attendees to make sure everyone has a smooth and memorable trip for your wedding.