Planning a destination wedding offers couples an opportunity to combine a beautiful ceremony with an unforgettable vacation.
While Mexico is the most popular choice, there are many stunning destinations outside of Mexico that can provide equally breathtaking settings.
Of course, you could likely host a destination wedding in seemingly endless destinations around the world.
But in talking to many of the couples we work with at Vacationeeze, we have found that couples looking for an alternative to Mexico are often looking at other tropical destinations.
When choosing your location for your destination wedding, consider several key factors.
Determine your budget. Costs can vary significantly by location. For example, a wedding in Hawaii will likely be more expensive than a Caribbean island.
Consider the ease of travel for your guests. Destinations like Saint Vincent might require longer flights and multiple transfers, whereas Jamaica may be easier.
We’ve found that it largely depends where most of your guests are traveling from and a quick scan on Google Flights can show you nonstop or 1-stop flight options.
Also consider the drive to the resort once you land in the destination. After a 4+ hour flight, it’s often less than ideal to have a 2+ hour drive to the resort.
Think about the climate. Most Caribbean and tropical destinations will have similar weather trends. We generally recommend avoiding hurricane season, especially for more remote islands where there may be fewer flights per day.
Review legal requirements for marriages in the chosen destination. Different countries have varying rules and paperwork which can affect your ceremony plans.
Generally we recommend a symbolic ceremony as that’s the simplest option and requires the least paperwork.
When choosing a destination wedding venue, it’s essential to consider the various types available.
Each venue type offers distinct features that can cater to different wedding styles and preferences.
Beach Venues
Beach venues are popular for their scenic views and relaxed atmosphere. Couples often choose beaches for their picturesque settings and the opportunity to host a ceremony with the sound of waves in the background.
We’ve actually seen beach weddings (particularly ceremonies) are less popular now than they were a few years ago as couple are opting for more terrace-type venues.
Terraces
While beach venues have become slightly less popular over time, resorts have become smarter and designed stunning, private terraces for your wedding celebration.
Some terraces overlook the beach or ocean, and others are near a pool or tucked away within the resort.
Gardens
Similar to terraces, garden venues have become more popular over time at resorts. Often the biggest difference between a terrace wedding venue and a garden wedding venue is that the garden venue will have grass whereas the terrace likely has a hard surface.
It’s worth considering which may be optimal based on the style of wedding you’re aiming for.
Chapels
If you’re planning a Catholic destination wedding, many resorts offer a chapel for your ceremony.
Sometimes the chapels are non-denominational, and other times, they are designed for Catholic ceremonies.
Ballrooms
Ballrooms are typically more popular for wedding in the hot summer months where you may plan your ceremony and cocktail hour outside but decide to host the reception indoors to avoid the heat.
Most ballrooms can accommodate weddings of all sizes, so this is also a great option for destination weddings over 100 guests and South Asian destination weddings.
When evaluating these options, consider the guest list, budget, desired atmosphere, and specific requirements. Each venue type has its own set of advantages that can enhance the wedding experience based on personal preferences.
Punta Cana sits at the easternmost point where the Caribbean Sea meets the Atlantic Ocean, offering an idyllic backdrop for destination weddings. With its clear turquoise waters and pristine white sand beaches, it stands as a prime wedding location.
Top resorts in Punta Cana:
Popular wedding packages:
Some packages offer complimentary ceremonies if you book a certain number of rooms or nights. This can offer significant savings while still providing a beautiful and memorable event.
Venues and costs:
For those looking for variety, Punta Cana’s venues range from beach and gardens to poolside and ballroom settings.
The cost for destination weddings here generally ranges from $5,000 to $15,000 depending on the number of guests and additional services.
By offering diverse options and breathtaking settings, Punta Cana ensures a memorable and beautiful wedding day.
Jamaica is a popular destination for weddings, offering stunning beaches, luxurious resorts, fantastic wedding packages, and reasonable costs. Couples can choose between various locations such as Montego Bay, Ocho Rios, and Negril, each providing beautiful settings and unique experiences.
Top resorts in Jamaica:
Belize stands out as a unique destination wedding location with its breathtaking Caribbean coastline and lush rainforests.
Couples looking for an intimate and exotic setting will find the country’s natural beauty unparalleled.
From Mayan ruins to spectacular coral reefs, Belize offers a diverse backdrop for any wedding ceremony.
Key Highlights of Belize Weddings:
The blend of natural beauty and rich cultural experiences makes Belize a distinctive choice for destination weddings.
Barbados offers a romantic and picturesque setting for destination weddings.
Known for its crystal-clear waters and white sandy beaches, the island is a tropical paradise that brings an exotic flair to wedding ceremonies. Couples can enjoy a blend of stunning natural beauty and rich cultural experiences.
In addition to its scenic beauty, Barbados presents a variety of affordable wedding packages. Couples can find options that include ceremony and reception needs, decor, catering, and more, often spending less than $10,000 for a three-day stay.
Sandals Barbados stands out for its all-inclusive packages for wedding festivities.
This resort offers various wedding venues, including beachfront locations, tropical gardens, and elegant ballrooms. Sandals provides comprehensive services, including an on-site wedding coordinator to ensure every detail is perfect.
The island is not all about luxury; it also offers authentic Caribbean experiences. Visitors can explore local cuisine, music, and traditions, making their stay memorable and unique.
Many hotels and resorts provide tailored wedding packages, allowing couples to personalize their big day according to their preferences. These packages often include essentials like bouquets, wedding arches, and wedding cakes.
Barbados is a compelling choice for destination weddings, combining affordable luxury with an unforgettable setting.
Turks and Caicos is a tropical destination known for its stunning natural beauty and world-class resorts.
The islands offer a variety of beautiful venues, luxury accommodations, and exquisite beaches perfect for destination weddings.
There are multiple stunning resorts in Turks and Caicos, but we keep coming back to Beaches Turks and Caicos Resort.
The beach, the restaurants, the activities for all ages, and the countless improvements over the years make Beaches a top resort for your destination wedding.
Saint Lucia stands out as a beautiful choice for couples seeking an exotic destination wedding. Known for its golden beaches and luxurious resorts, the island offers diverse wedding experiences.
The average cost of a destination wedding in Saint Lucia varies as there are some high-end boutique resorts where your wedding can easily exceed $20,000.
Popular Venues:
Wedding Package Options:
Legal requirements include navigating local vendors and potentially securing legal documents, which can be efficiently managed by most resort wedding teams. The island’s all-inclusive resorts contribute to St. Lucia’s reputation as one of the top Caribbean wedding destinations.
Antigua offers a stunning backdrop for destination weddings with its bright blue skies and white sandy beaches. This captivating Caribbean island is renowned for its natural beauty and naval history. English Harbour, an iconic spot, highlights Antigua’s rich past.
The average cost of a destination wedding in Antigua is approximately $7,200. This can vary based on the guest list, venue choice, and additional services. Many resorts offer customizable wedding packages which include essentials.
Traveling to Antigua is relatively straightforward, with the VC Bird International Airport serving as the main gateway. Its accommodations cater to diverse preferences, ensuring there’s something for every couple.
For LGBTQ couples, Antigua is friendly and welcoming. This inclusive attitude makes it an excellent choice for all love stories. Considering these factors can help couples plan their dream wedding in this picturesque location.
Saint Vincent offers a unique blend of natural beauty and extraordinary venues perfect for a destination wedding. The island’s serene landscapes and tranquil waters provide an ideal backdrop for an unforgettable wedding experience.
Sandals Saint Vincent is a brand new choice for couples seeking an all-inclusive, luxury wedding experience.
This resort is renowned for its stunning beaches, offering couples the opportunity to exchange vows with a backdrop of turquoise waters and pristine sand.
The resort features multiple wedding packages that include everything from floral arrangements to gourmet reception dinners.
Guests can enjoy various activities, including scuba diving and sailing, ensuring an entertaining and fulfilling experience for everyone. Sandals resorts have a reputation for excellence, making them a reliable option for those desiring a seamless, high-quality wedding.
Curacao offers a stunning Caribbean backdrop for destination weddings. The island boasts a mix of vibrant culture, historical landmarks, and luxurious resorts.
Dreams Curacao is an excellent wedding venue. Located on the sandy shores of Piscadera Bay, this resort features multiple venues and is family-friendly. At Dreams Curacao you can take advantage of the Beyond Memorable wedding package, which is one of the most popular wedding packages for couples we work with.
For those seeking all-inclusive packages, the Sandals Resort Curacao offers exceptional services. These packages typically include everything from the ceremony to photography. More details can be found in the Sandals destination wedding guide.
Popular activities for wedding guests include exploring the lively capital, Willemstad. The city is divided by the charming St. Anna Bay, with districts like Punda offering narrow streets filled with shops and museums.
Curacao is a versatile destination suitable for intimate gatherings or grand celebrations. Whether you’re dreaming of a beachfront wedding or a more elegant indoor ceremony, the island provides numerous options to fit various preferences and budgets.
For a successful destination wedding, it’s important to consider travel arrangements, legal requirements, guest accommodations, and wedding vendors. Addressing these aspects will ensure a smooth and memorable experience for everyone involved.
Properly coordinating travel is crucial. Couples should first select a location accessible by major airlines to simplify travel for guests. It is vital to book flights and accommodations well in advance to secure the best rates and availability.
Consider arranging group travel packages through an experienced travel team like ours to provide guests with organized options.
Additionally, inform guests about passport and visa requirements early on to avoid last-minute issues. Providing a travel itinerary with contact information for any necessary transportation services can further streamline the process.
Legal requirements vary by country, and it is important to understand and fulfill them for the wedding to be legally recognized. Start by determining if the chosen destination requires any residency period before the ceremony.
Some countries may require documents such as birth certificates, single-status affidavits, and passports translated into the local language. Ensure these documents are prepared and authenticated ahead of time. Couples may also need to engage local legal assistance to navigate local laws and ensure all paperwork is correctly processed.
Choosing reliable wedding vendors in a foreign location can be challenging.
Most resorts will offer in-house vendors to take of your needs from DJ to florals and everything in between.
If you want to hire local vendors, start by researching local companies known for high-quality services. Online reviews and recommendations from other couples are valuable resources.
Contact potential vendors well in advance to discuss availability, pricing, and specific details of your wedding day.
It may be beneficial to hire a local wedding planner who understands the local market and can recommend trusted vendors for photography, catering, floral arrangements, and more.
Clear contracts and detailed communication with all vendors are essential for avoiding misunderstandings and ensuring all expectations are met.
For couples looking beyond Mexico for their destination wedding, here are answers to some common questions. Affordable options, value-packed countries, and popular venues are explored.
Jamaica and the Dominican Republic are often cited as cost-effective alternatives to Mexico due to their competitive pricing and beautiful settings. These destinations offer excellent venues that cater to diverse wedding styles and budgets.
The Caribbean islands, such as the Bahamas and Turks and Caicos, provide great value. They combine stunning locations with comprehensive wedding packages.
Many all-inclusive resorts in the Caribbean and Central America offer wedding packages under $10,000. These packages typically include accommodations, meals, drinks, and the wedding ceremony.
These locations are renowned for their picturesque venues and suitability for destination weddings.
Mexico, Jamaica, the Dominican Republic, and many other Caribbean Islands stand out for their wide range of all-inclusive resorts.
These resorts often include comprehensive wedding packages, which make planning seamless and stress-free.
Jamaica, Turks and Caicos, and the Dominican Republic are excellent alternatives to Mexico for couples seeking affordability.
Offering similar tropical beauty, these destinations offer a range of venue choices and wedding packages that cater to various budgets.
Our experienced wedding planners at Destination Weddings by Vacationeeze are with you every step of the way.
With decades of experience planning hundreds of weddings, our team understands what couples are looking for and how to navigate working with the resorts.
Our dedicated team will work with all your friends and family so you can focus on planning your dream wedding.
Ready to start planning your big day?
Call us at 215-454-2070 or get in touch with us here.
Jared is a certified destination wedding travel advisor and has been recognized as a top agent by Palace Resorts, Karisma Resorts, Lomas Hospitality, and Hyatt Inclusive Collection.
He caught the travel bug early in his life as his parents (the founders of Vacationeeze!) instilled a passion for travel and adventure in him and his siblings.
Our team has 30+ years planning dream destination weddings. For a limited time we're offering up to $4,000 cash for your wedding.
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