Pros & Cons of a Destination Wedding

So are you thinking about having a destination wedding but wondering if it's the right decision for you? We have compiled a list of pros and cons for you to consider. Our hope is that when considering all things possible it will become clear if a destination wedding is right for you.

Pro- Could save you a lot of money. But, based on your expectations......

Con- Could be more money than you were hoping.

Some couples decide on a destination wedding because they heard from their 2nd cousin, twice removed, that their friend's sister had a destination wedding and it was less than $2000. Could you get a destination wedding for 2K? Yes, but keep in mind that you get what you pay for.

Con- Could rule out some important family members based on travel costs.

Pro- A little more control over your guest list. You can go big or you can go small. Guests lists don't tend to get out of control as easily as a local wedding can.

Con- Traveling can be hard for older family members or guests requiring special arrangements like wheelchair accessibility or showers with handrails, etc. Other countries don't have laws protecting those with disabilities so resorts aren't required to offer those options. With that said, resorts are getting better about making sure they have something to offer everyone but you need to make sure that whatever the special needs of your family members are that they can be met.

Pro- Can offer more date flexibility. Wanting to get married on a special date but it falls on a Tuesday or are you hoping for an outdoor wedding in February? Having a destination wedding could make more sense.

Pro- A lot of resorts/locations offer all-inclusive wedding packages. Makes planning easier and less stressful if you're not having to search for vendors.

Con- All-inclusive packages can feel a bit impersonal.

Con-Isn't the same as planning a local wedding. If visiting possible vendors and spending hours looking through or sampling their work is what you have in mind when it comes to planning your wedding then a DW just might not be for you.

Pro- Much easier planning for those looking for a simple, done-for-you process.

Pro- Can double as a honeymoon!

Con- Your honeymoon could become a family affair! Yikes!

Pro- A DW becomes an entire experience for you and your guests, not just a single day.

Pro- Could be a wonderful cultural experience!

Pro-AMAZING PHOTOS!!

Con-Navigating a language barrier can be tough when planning with a non-English speaking county.

Con- Other countries aren't nearly as quick at responding to clients as we are here in the US so waiting for responses can become frustrating.

Con- Dealing with vendors strictly over the phone and email.

Managing expectations and knowing what to expect could save you some time and frustration when planning a DW. We recently did a podcast about the pros and cons and we dig even deeper into the subject. Listen HERE.