How to Plan a Destination Wedding

Weddings Abroad Can Be Magical—Here’s How to Make It Happen

Getting married is one of the most personal moments of your life. For many couples,  weddings abroad  offer the perfect blend of travel, romance, and unforgettable memories. But planning your big day away from home requires a little extra care. From choosing the right destination to sorting out legal paperwork, we’ll help you plan a celebration that’s as seamless as it is special.

This guide is designed to walk you through each stage of planning a destination wedding, with practical tips and expert advice to make it all feel less overwhelming.

Why Choose Weddings Abroad?

There’s something special about tying the knot in a place that means something to you.

Whether it’s a sun-soaked beach in Greece or a charming vineyard in Italy,  weddings abroad  allow couples to start their married life with a sense of adventure. You’re not just planning a ceremony; you’re creating a shared experience for your closest loved ones.

Some reasons couples choose to get married overseas include:

• A more intimate guest list
• Stunning backdrops for photos
• Often better weather than at home
• Cost savings depending on the destination
• Built-in honeymoon right after the wedding

And because your guests are travelling too, it feels more like a holiday than a traditional wedding.

Step One: Set Your Budget Early

Before you start looking at dream locations, decide how much you can afford.

This sets the tone for everything that follows. While  weddings abroad  can sometimes cost less than UK weddings, expenses can build up quickly. Flights, accommodation, meals, venue hire, and any travel for suppliers need to be accounted for.

Break your budget into categories:

• Flights and travel
• Venue and catering
• Accommodation for yourselves (and possibly guests)
• Legal costs and paperwork
• Extras like photographers or entertainment

Tip: Don’t forget to budget for exchange rates and travel insurance.

Choose the Right Destination

Your destination should match your vision and personality.

Are you dreaming of sandy beaches, historic cities, mountain views, or something off the beaten path? Make sure you think practically as well as romantically. Consider travel time, weather conditions, local laws, and how easy it is for guests to get there.

Here are some great ideas to get you started:

Santorini, Greece

Whitewashed buildings, golden sunsets, and deep blue waters. Santorini is perfect for couples who want charm and drama in equal measure.
Contact us to learn more about current wedding offers in Santorini.

Lake Garda, Italy

For elegance and romance, Lake Garda ticks all the boxes. Imagine getting married by the lake, surrounded by cypress trees and sparkling water.
Ask us about exclusive packages in Lake Garda for this year.

Riviera Maya, Mexico

A great choice for couples wanting a beach wedding with a tropical feel. Think barefoot vows, Mayan traditions, and sunset feasts.
We can tailor packages with hotel stays and inclusive ceremonies.

Not sure where to start? Jamie Wake Travel can help match your ideal vibe with the perfect location.

Understand the Legal Requirements for Weddings Abroad

Every country has its own rules around  weddings abroad . Some make it very easy, while others require more planning and paperwork.

You might need:

• Birth certificates
• Passports
• Certificates of no impediment
• Translations of documents
• Local registry fees

Some destinations may also require you to be in the country for a set number of days before the wedding. That’s why it’s essential to check this information early. We can guide you through this process to avoid any surprises.

Tip: If legal ceremonies are too complex, many couples marry legally in the UK first and then hold a symbolic ceremony abroad.

Think About Your Guests

A destination wedding is a commitment—for everyone.

Keep your guest list in mind when picking a date and destination. Try to choose a place that’s accessible and affordable for most of your loved ones.

Help them plan by:

• Giving plenty of notice (ideally 9-12 months)
• Suggesting group accommodation
• Offering help with flights and transfers
• Creating a simple itinerary so they know what to expect

Not all your guests will be able to come.

That’s okay. Keep them involved by sharing photos or livestreaming the event.

Plan the Timing Carefully

Season matters. Weather can make or break your dream day.

Research the best times to visit your chosen destination. Many popular wedding spots have a rainy season or high temperatures during certain months. It’s best to avoid school holidays unless you want large crowds or higher costs.

Here’s a quick guide:

• Europe: May to September
• Caribbean: December to April
• Asia: November to March
• Indian Ocean: January to April

We’ll help you choose the best dates based on your ideal location.

Hire a Wedding Planner or Use a Trusted Travel Agency

This step is key. Especially if you’re planning from a different country.

You’ll need someone on the ground who understands local vendors, rules, and timelines. That’s where we come in. At Jamie Wake Travel, we work closely with wedding coordinators and venues around the world. We tailor everything to your needs, from start to finish.

Why trust us?

• We’re part of Protected Trust Services, so your money is secure
• We have strong relationships with international suppliers
• We tailor each holiday to fit your story
• We’ll guide you every step of the way

Jamie Says:

“Every couple’s love story is different. That’s why we don’t believe in one-size-fits-all packages. Whether it’s a quiet ceremony on a cliff or a full family celebration in the Caribbean, we make sure your wedding feels like you.”

Choose the Right Venue and Accommodation

Once you’ve picked your destination, it’s time to secure your venue and place to stay.

These often go hand in hand with  weddings abroad , especially at hotels or resorts offering wedding packages. Think about your priorities. Do you want privacy? Sea views? All-inclusive meals? Family-friendly amenities?

Here are a few hotel ideas to spark inspiration:

Ikos Olivia, Halkidiki – Greece

This stylish, all-inclusive resort offers a gorgeous beachfront and elegant ceremony locations.
Ask us about current wedding offers with Ikos Resorts.

Excellence Playa Mujeres – Mexico

Adults-only, with luxury suites, private beaches, and dedicated wedding planners.
Speak to us about exclusive romantic extras available.

Hotel Villa del Sogno, Lake Garda – Italy

This historic villa offers a beautiful lake view and an intimate atmosphere.
Let us know if you’d like details on this hidden gem.

We’ll help you find the perfect match based on your group size, style, and budget.

Weddings Abroad: Make It Personal

A destination doesn’t mean giving up your personality. You can still add meaningful touches.

Ideas to personalise your day:

• Write your own vows
• Choose music that matters to you
• Add local flowers or regional dishes
• Bring personal decorations from home
• Offer guests custom welcome bags

Small details go a long way.

These moments make the experience yours, even thousands of miles from home.

Plan the Extras: Hair, Makeup, Photos & More

If you want professional hair, makeup, or photography, research early. Many venues offer recommended suppliers, but you can also bring your own (just factor in travel and accommodation costs).

Be sure to:

• Book suppliers early
• Ask for portfolios or sample work
• Communicate your vision clearly
• Schedule a trial where possible

We can recommend reliable professionals at most of our wedding destinations.

Don’t Forget the Honeymoon

The best part? You’re already there.

Many couples extend their stay and move to a more private resort after the wedding. Whether you want to unwind in a spa, go on safari, or island-hop in the Indian Ocean, we’ll tailor a honeymoon to follow your wedding abroad perfectly.

Honeymoon suggestions to consider:

• Maldives water villas
• A private game reserve in South Africa
• A luxury train journey through Europe
• Overwater bungalows in Bora Bora
• Island hopping in the Greek Cyclades

Weddings Abroad: Top Tips from Jamie Wake Travel

• Be flexible—some things won’t go exactly to plan
• Always check legal requirements early
• Make time to enjoy the process
• Trust your travel agent
• Choose a destination that reflects you

Let Jamie Wake Travel Help Plan Your Perfect Day

Planning  weddings abroad  should feel joyful, not stressful. Whether you’re dreaming of a sunset ceremony or a castle in Tuscany, we bring your vision to life with our personal, UK-based service.

At Jamie Wake Travel, we don’t just sell holidays—we create experiences. From booking your venue to arranging guest travel, we’re with you every step of the way.

We’re proud members of Protected Trust Services and work with a wide range of suppliers and wedding specialists. With access to top tour operators and hidden gems alike, we tailor every detail so your day feels like you.

Ready to start planning? Call us today on 01495 400005
or
Use our holiday enquiry form on our website

Let’s create something unforgettable—together.