Planning for what is supposed to be the happiest day of your life is definitely not easy. There are so many details to take into consideration and there are so many things that could potentially go wrong. Now, when it comes to destination weddings, things might get a little bit more out of hand as there are even more things to take note of. Keep calm and read on, as we give you some tips on how to make sure your best day goes smoothly and happiness is maintained.
Pick the Location
You might already have a destination in mind, but have you taken into consideration certain things? Your destination not only affects the setting (rustic, beachy, winter wonderland) of your wedding, but also the travel, time and budget required to bring it to realisation.
You could choose a location based on both of your personalities and passions. Are both of you into water sports? You could choose beautiful beachy locations like Bali, Langkawi or an in the Philippines like Boracay, Cebu or El Nido. These palces will not leave you disappointed with the views and the beach activities should you choose to engage in any.
Or are you both adventurous and want a different kind of experience for your guests? You could choose Thailand's Koh Samui, North Shore. You not only enjoy the most perfect view of the sky and beach, you could also bring your wedding party or guests on an adventure in the safari. If you prefer to be even more adventurous, consider Costa Rica, where your guests can zipline through the treetops.
If you would like to make it a romantic, intimate affair, consider picking Paris, which is rightly named the City of Love.
There is a Right Time for Everything
Most countries are not one season wonders like Singapore. Certain times in the year will have certain kinds of weather and unfortunately the best weather in popular vacation locations will coincide with tourist season. This means more crowd, fewer options for hotel and venues and higher rates for pretty much everything. If you choose a tourist season, you should reserve hotel blocks and venues at least a year or so in advance and send out invitations immediately after doing so. This will allow your guests to book their flights and accommodations before the prices go up. Also giving early notification allows them time to manage their finances or gracefully decline if finances are tight. You could expect some of your closest friends or relatives to not attend as costs for the trip to your wedding can really add up for them, so do not be disheartened.
Choosing a timing which is right after high season will ensure that you save yourself and your guests some money while still enjoying great weather.
As for off-season, there is the advantage of experiencing fewer crowds but also the disadvantage of possibly bad weather patterns and it might be just as hard finding vendors and venues as they might choose to close shop during that period.
Recce Trip
Take at least one planning trip. Taking a trip to scout and secure your venues is crucial, you would want to see it for yourself to ensure you are really getting what you envision. Secure your local suppliers as well, such as caterers, florists and photographers. It is also advisable to schedule food tasting with your caterer, find a suitable local salon for your hair and make-up as well as organise activities for your guests who would be travelling all the way there to be part of your happiest day. Make their trip worth it. You should also arrange group rates for flights and rooms and give them information on how to get to your wedding venues. Go the extra mile and plan for “goodie bags” of essentials for the trip for your guests.
Be Aware of Local Marriage Requirements
There is a legal side to this as well, as you are getting legally bound to your future spouse. Many countries actually have a “residency requirement” which means that you would have to have stayed in the country for a certain length of time before your ceremony. This can vary from a few days to more than a month, depending on the country.
Appropriate Attire
Choosing your wedding gown is another big part of your wedding. You have to take the climate into consideration when choosing your wedding dress. Also take it into consideration when you are telling your guests the dress code.
It is Alright to Ask for Help
Settling all the small details for a destination might overwhelm you, from researching and settling local vendors and dealing with the the logistics. These can be taken over by a wedding planner whom you can employ from Singapore. They can help you with all the behind-the-scenes headaches and small details you might miss out or not think of. They would take lots of weight off of your shoulders, allowing you to be relaxed and enjoy your wedding day.