5 International Destination Wedding Details You Can't Forget
Planning a destination wedding is doubly exciting because you and your fiancée are getting ready to share a place that is special to you both with all of your friends and family! However, destination weddings often require some extra planning to account for wedding details that typically don't exist for local weddings. So give yourself more time to plan and don't forget these five destination wedding details!
Visa requirements
Melita DeHazes, of cross-border payments provider OFX says, "Lots of countries have relaxed their visa permissions in order to cash in on revenue from destination weddings, but visas are a factor you'll want to check in every destination you're considering. Keep in mind that if you're planning on marrying someone of a different nationality and eventually living in the country where you're getting married, the requirements may be different than those that usually apply to destination weddings. It's always wise to contact the consulate, if you're unsure."
Marriage license requirements/regulations
You need a marriage license to make your union legal and different countries and US states have different requirements. For example, the cost, waiting period, valid period, and whether or not you need a blood test or documents translated can all vary by country. Just make sure to research the requirements of your destination well in advance and give yourself enough time to plan accordingly.
Adding currency exchange rates to your budget
DeHazes says, "a lot of couples make the mistake of failing to factor in currency exchange rates. Even though these exchange rates change constantly and will likely be different by the time you have to pay your venue and vendors, use an accurate exchange rate calculator to get an estimate of how your money will convert and whether or not the conversion will work in your favor."
Vetting the venue via real photos on Instagram or Trip Advisor if you can't see it in person
Sometimes traveling to your destination prior to booking key venues or vendors is impossible and you have to book them sight unseen. If that's the case, don't just rely on official pictures from the venue's or vendor's website, as those are obviously going to look perfect. Do a little more digging and see if you can find any "real photos" from social media on Instagram or travel sites like Trip Advisor.
Planning activities or giving destination suggestions to your guests
When you're asking your guests to travel for your wedding, you're responsible for ensuring they have a great experience the entire time they are there! So beyond just official wedding events, make sure to provide group activities or suggestions of experiences they can do so they have fun ways to spend their time. Giving them an itinerary with an area map in a welcome bag is a nice touch!
Style Me Pretty Contributor – Julia Hurwitz is a freelance writer and Marketing Manager based in New York City. Her interests include travel, global craft, healthy baking, entertaining and exploring the outdoors.