How to Have an Affordable Destination Wedding
More couples today are swapping traditional weddings for smaller, more intimate celebrations in breathtaking locations. Also, they are doing it on a budget. You can have a perfect destination wedding without spending a fortune with some planning, creativity, and flexibility. In fact, a destination wedding can sometimes be more affordable than a hometown event, especially when you take advantage of Destination Weddings Packages.
These packages are often offered by resorts, hotels, and local wedding planners in popular wedding locations. They combine many of the major elements you will need such as the venue, officiant, flowers, and music into one flat price. This reduces the number of moving parts to manage and the cost. Below are ways to plan an affordable destination wedding:
Pick the Right Destination
Some places are more budget-friendly than others. You should look beyond the usual big-ticket spots such as Paris or Hawaii. Many amazing destinations are just as picturesque but easier on your wallet. You can find beautiful beaches, charming towns, and great prices on things in Mexico, Portugal, and Costa Rica. Look for destinations with good exchange rates, lower travel costs, and affordable accommodations.
Travel During the Off-Season
Venues and vendors often offer discounts when business is slower. Also, flights and hotels are cheaper. For example, a Caribbean wedding in May or October will be less expensive than one in December or January. Plus, you will enjoy fewer crowds and more availability.
Keep the Guest List Small
Keeping the guest list small makes the experience more intimate and relaxed. Also, it cuts down on food, drink, and accommodation costs. Many couples choose to invite only close friends and immediate family. You should not feel pressured to include coworkers, extended relatives, or acquaintances. The people who want to be there will make the trip.
Choose an All-Inclusive Resort
All-inclusive resorts can be a lifesaver for destination weddings. Many offer wedding packages that include everything from the ceremony setup and officiant to food, drinks, and photography. You pay one price and get almost everything you need in one place. You will not be juggling vendors or trying to coordinate deliveries from miles away. Some resorts also throw in a free wedding if you book a certain number of nights or guests. Make sure to read the fine print and compare package details.
Go Digital with Invites and RSVPs
Skip the fancy paper invitations and go digital. Wedding websites, email invites, and RSVP tools are affordable and easy to manage. Guests can access all your wedding details from their phones or computers. Plus, no one has to worry about losing a physical invite in their luggage. You can also explore free or low-cost wedding website builders with beautiful templates to choose from if you want a touch of style.
Book Group Rates and Airline Deals
Many hotels and airlines offer group rates if you book for several people. Ask your resort or venue if they can help set up a room block for your guests. This makes it easier for everyone to stay in the same place and usually comes with a nice price cut. Some airlines also offer group travel services where you lock in discounted rates for 10 or more travelers.
Hire a Local Wedding Planner
A wedding planner might seem like an extra cost, but hiring someone who knows the local area can save you money. Local planners know the best vendors, the hidden-gem venues, and which companies offer fair prices. They also speak the language and can negotiate deals on your behalf. Some planners offer basic packages or day-of coordination only, which is perfect if you do most of the planning yourself and need someone to help pull things together on the big day.
