Deciding on a destination wedding can feel like a dream come true – and with the right approach, planning it can be just as exciting as the big day itself. From stunning locations to quality time with your closest friends and family, it’s a chance to create a celebration that feels truly personal and unforgettable. While there are a few extra details to think about, a little expert guidance goes a long way. That’s where the specialists at Kenwood Travel come in. We spoke to Janet Percy, Head of Weddings and Honeymoon, who shares her tried-and-trusted advice to help you plan a seamless, relaxed celebration abroad.
Decide who you’d love to share it with
Before choosing your destination, take a moment to picture your ideal day. Is it an intimate escape for just the two of you, or a celebration surrounded by your favourite people? Having a clear idea of who you’d love to be there helps shape everything that follows. Start with your must-have guests – those who would make the day feel complete – and build from there. Destination weddings naturally lend themselves to smaller, more meaningful gatherings, which many couples find makes the experience even more special.
Plan with your guests in mind
One of the joys of a destination wedding is sharing the experience with the people closest to you. Keeping their budgets and availability in mind from the outset helps ensure as many of them as possible can be part of your celebration. With a bit of thoughtful planning, you can find the right balance between your dream setting and something that works comfortably for your guests, so everyone can relax and enjoy the occasion together.
Understand what’s included
Destination wedding packages often offer excellent value, bringing together many elements of your day in one place. As your plans take shape, it’s worth getting familiar with what’s included and how you can personalise things. This way, you can tailor your celebration to suit your style, whether that’s a simple ceremony or something more elaborate, while staying in control of your budget.
Choose the right time to travel
When you travel can have a big impact on both the atmosphere and the cost of your wedding. Months like June or September often offer a great combination of lovely weather, good availability and a more relaxed pace. Being a little flexible with your dates can open up more options and help you get the most out of your destination, both for your wedding and your wider stay.
Find a hotel that suits everyone
The right hotel helps bring everything together. Many resorts cater beautifully to mixed groups, offering options for families as well as quieter, adults-only spaces. You can also make your stay extra special with room upgrades or more private areas, giving you the perfect balance of social time with your guests and moments to yourselves during the celebrations.
Spread the cost and plan ahead
Booking early and spreading payments over time can make the whole experience feel much more manageable. Putting a little aside each month helps avoid any last-minute pressure and gives you flexibility to add special touches later on. It also means you can consider upgrades, like enhanced rooms or flights, to make your trip even more memorable.
Enjoy the ease of all-inclusive
All-inclusive resorts can make destination weddings wonderfully straightforward. With meals, drinks and activities taken care of, guests can fully relax and enjoy their time away.
Days can be spent by the pool, at the beach or exploring, before everyone comes together in the evening to celebrate – creating a laid-back, sociable atmosphere throughout your stay.
Keep things effortlessly simple
When it comes to your wedding package, a simple approach often works best. Start with the essentials and then add personal touches that really matter to you. Destination weddings are perfect for relaxed, authentic celebrations – think beachside ceremonies, local flowers and informal dining. Keeping things uncomplicated not only helps manage costs but also allows you to fully enjoy the moment.
Embrace the beauty of an intimate celebration
Smaller weddings can feel incredibly special, allowing you to focus on the people who matter most. Whether you’re celebrating with a small group or just the two of you, the experience often feels more personal and meaningful. Many destinations, including the Caribbean, also make the legal side straightforward, with clear guidance and support available to help everything run smoothly.
Make the most of expert support and honeymoon options
With expert support, planning a destination wedding becomes a smooth and enjoyable process. Your dedicated wedding coordinator will guide you through everything, from legal requirements to the finer details of the day itself. If you’re still deciding on your perfect setting, a twin-centre option can be a wonderful choice. You might celebrate in a lively, guest-friendly resort, then retreat somewhere quieter for your honeymoon – giving you the best of both worlds.
Bonus tip
Keep your wedding outfit close when you travel. For peace of mind, keep your wedding outfit with you in your hand luggage so it arrives safely by your side. Once you’re there, a little steaming will have everything looking its best.
Doing the same for accessories and suits means you can relax, knowing everything is ready for the big day – leaving you free to focus on enjoying every moment.
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