I am frequently asked, are destination weddings cheaper? or Are destination weddings less expensive?
The good news is YES!
Destination weddings can be less expensive and cheaper than a wedding in the US.
Here are tips for having a highly personalized and memorable destination wedding experience in a unique destination.
🌴 Choosing the right destination is important when trying to save with a destination wedding. Choosing a destination that has access to goods such as floral, rental equipment, and experienced professionals is vital. If you need to have items shipped in due to lack of access this will certainly drive the cost up. Weddings in Mexico are often less expensive as Mexico has access to products and services that couples want.
🌴Ease of travel – choosing a destination that does not require multiple connecting flights will save $$ on airfare leaving more money for guests to spend on their accommodations. Again Mexico wins this category! Most people can easily catch a flight to Mexico and often be on the beach the same day they travel!
🌴Self Editing guest list – destination weddings have a way of drilling down your guest list to a more manageable guest count. Having 60 guests for a destination wedding is more affordable than 200 guests if you had the same wedding at home. With only 60 guests you can have fun activities such as a sunset cruise, give customized wedding welcome bags, having luxury table decor…6 guest tables vs 20 is much more affordable to decorate!
Having a destination wedding doesn’t mean that you should negotiate with every service provider…this isn’t necessary and honestly in the end if you expect vendors to give you a DEAL you will only sacrifice the quality.
Sitting down with your family and discussing how much everyone is comfortable in contributing is crucial.
🌴Set a budget and write it down.
Create an estimated cost sheet for each service you will need.
In 20 years of planning weddings, I only have had one bride say she didn’t care about her photos…??? 🤔
Photography is often an area where couples will want to spend a little more to ensure that the moments are captured as in the end these will be your memories.
You can have a wedding that is filled with days of memories with a destination wedding.