Caribbean Destination Wedding Planning Tips
Have you decided that you want a Caribbean destination wedding, as opposed to a wedding at home? If so, you will need to make many plans. To get started, please continue reading on for a few helpful destination wedding planning tips.
Research your options. Before deciding on a destination wedding in the Caribbean, it is important to research. Of course, find affordable airline reservations and overnight accommodations, but look beyond that. For example, some all-inclusive resorts in Jamaica give you a free standard wedding ceremony. In most cases, very few restrictions are involved, such as a 5 or 7 day stay.
Make wedding plans. As previously stated, some all-inclusive Jamaica resorts give you a free wedding. If you opt for these resorts, be sure to make your plans in advance and ensure you get a picture perfect wedding, even if it is free. If you opt for a separate wedding venue, make these plans well in advance and keep up-to-date on progress and changes.
Reexamine your decision. Make sure you are making the right choice. If you change your mind, you can still use your Caribbean reservations for your honeymoon. You may, however, run into problems with guests. For that reason, reaffirm your decision to get married in the Caribbean before telling friends and family.
Tell your family. As soon as you decide on a destination wedding, tell your family. Do you have a mother who is excited about your engagement and wants to help you plan? If so, she may get started right away. Don’t give her the opportunity to be disappointed. When telling your family, know ahead of time if you want to invite guests.
Decide on a date. When deciding on a wedding date, give time. Most of your guests will want to attend, but some may need to save money first. If you want someone special to attend, such as a best friend, give them word of your plans before the official invite arrives in the mail. Also, make sure you and all guests have time to order and receive passports.
Make your travel plans. Once you decide on a date, it is important to check availability. With a large selection of Caribbean resorts to choose from, you should not have a problem getting a reservation. With that said, if you opt for a resort with a free wedding included, double check availability before providing guests with a specific date.
Decide who to invite. When planning a Caribbean wedding, you will face a tough decision in terms of guests. Who do you want to invite? Most want to keep their destination weddings small. Also, consider finances, but fairness. Not sending an invite to one aunt, but the rest because you assume she cannot afford is tricky. Send the invite and let her decide.
Inform guests. You will want to tell immediate family members in person first, but everyone else can receive a destination wedding invitation. As previously stated, destination wedding invitations should be sent at least two months in advance.
Order invitations. For the invitations themselves, you can use a standard wedding invitation or opt for a theme. Most online and local retailers have a large selection of destination wedding invitations available for sale. Announce your wedding plans with a beautiful beach scenery in the background.
Include travel information. In addition to a destination wedding invite, you should include other information. Although optional, consider giving guests information on travel. If you already booked your travel arrangements or researched options, you may know what airline reservations and Caribbean resorts have the best deals. Share this with your guests, as they will appreciate the tips.
Consider your plans. When extending Caribbean all-inclusive resort recommendations, keep your travel plans in mind. Most guests will not just travel for your wedding and leave; they will stay and have a vacation themselves. If you intend to honeymoon too, opt for a nearby hotel or resort. You want to enjoy your honeymoon, not turn around and see a family member every step you take.
Discuss at-home plans with family. Whether you have a number of guests that cannot attend your Caribbean wedding or if you don’t want to invite guests, discuss arrangements at home with your family. With Caribbean weddings, some couples do not get a big reception, but that is something that can be done later at home.
