After the initial excitement of the engagement wears off enough to start the actual planning process, many brides quickly begin to realize that their dream wedding might cost more than their budget allows. When you take into account the cost of a rehearsal dinner, wedding ceremony, reception with food and drinks, wedding dress, shoes, and so many other expenses, destination weddings are appealing for the money they can save. Let’s look at five ways that having a destination wedding can be quite cost-effective:
- Put it all in a package
Many resorts have really done a beautiful job of making destination weddings simple and hassle-free. Once you have settled on a destination and a property, you will have many options as far as wedding packages. For one price, you’ll receive complimentary services such as hair and make-up, rehearsal events and receptions. Shop around or, even better, use a travel professional, to find a package that fits your needs. An experienced travel professional can negotiate different services and events, depending on your wishes, all for one price and when you work with someone who’s not only knowledgeable, but connected in the Romance travel market, you’ll get a huge bang for your buck.
- Give yourself permission to have a smaller guest list
If you have your wedding in town, you can find yourself with a guest list much larger than you really want. By having your wedding out-of-town, you can invite only those who are closest to you. By shortening your guest list, you’ll save money on reception food and drinks, attendant flowers, and other costs that would come with a traditional in-town wedding.
- Choose a simple dress
If you are getting married on a beach or in a gazebo overlooking the water, you can get away with purchasing a simple sheath dress instead of a dress with a cathedral train. Instead of a veil, a single flower in your hair is a perfect adornment.
- Enjoy a free honeymoon
Many resorts will give the bride and groom free nights for their honeymoon when they book their wedding at their property. You might also receive free room upgrades and spa services, based on how many wedding guests accompany you for your celebration.
- Use a honeymoon registry
Many travel agents can host a website detailing your wedding and honeymoon online, using a gift-type registry. Friends and family can simply log on and help pay for the cost of the event or purchase special items to make your trip unforgettable. People can gift things such as romantic dinners on the beach or snorkel trips that will add so much to your overall experience.
When deciding between a local or a destination wedding, one thing that can’t be measured in dollars is the peace of mind in knowing that someone else is busy working on all of the details to make your big day special. Once you choose a package, you can essentially sit back and know that everything is taken care of, and you can focus on taking that next step in paradise.
