Is a Destination Wedding Right for You? Here’s How to decide!
Photography: Jana Dillon
If you are on the fence about planning a destination wedding in Hawai’i, you’ve come to the right place! Planning a wedding can be overwhelming, especially for busy professionals and although a destination wedding is not for everyone, there are a lot of perks that make it a great decision for our clients.
Pros of Having a Destination Wedding
Year Round
When planning their wedding, most couples have to take into consideration the best time of year for all their loved ones to be able to attend. This may mean celebrating between school semesters, during key off-seasons for work, or when travel costs are lower. With all these factors to consider, the best time of year to get married doesn’t always land in the spring or summer months. While that may play a big role in your venue options on the mainland, it Hawaii you can get married outdoors all year round. The seasons do vary slightly, but the chance of pleasant weather is very high.
Intimate Guestlist
When planning a wedding, it's common to feel pressure to invite certain guests out of obligation. However, with a destination wedding in Hawaii, you may find that distant relatives or your parents’ colleagues are less likely to attend, easing that pressure. Typically, destination weddings see a guest attrition rate of about 20-30%, but it really depends on your group’s dynamics. Traveling to Hawaii is a big commitment, so those who do attend will be the ones most excited to celebrate with you. Not only does this naturally streamline your guest list to your closest loved ones, but it also gives you more flexibility in your budget to splurge on the fun details like entertainment and décor!
Unique Experience
If you're at that stage where all your friends are getting married, you've probably seen most of the local wedding venues and vendors in action. It can be tough to feel excited or like your wedding is truly yours when everything starts to feel repetitive. Choosing to get married in Hawaii, however, guarantees a unique and unforgettable celebration. With breathtaking scenery and rich cultural traditions, your wedding will stand out, and your guests will be completely wowed!
Convenience of Location
Many of our clients tell us they choose Hawaii for their wedding because it’s a convenient and appealing destination for both sides of the family. With loved ones spread across different parts of the world, Hawaii often serves as an ideal meeting point. Even if it’s not exactly in the middle, it’s a neutral and exciting location that everyone can look forward to!
Extended Celebration
One of the top reasons our clients choose a destination wedding in Hawaii is because they want their celebration and quality time with loved ones to extend beyond just one day! Many couples plan additional events, like welcome drinks, a rehearsal dinner, fun activities, and a post-wedding brunch. Offering a room block keeps everyone close, giving guests a chance to bond throughout their stay. Plus, without the worry of long drives or work the next day, guests tend to be more relaxed and fully present, making the celebration even more special.
Photography: June Cochran
Key Considerations Before Choosing a Destination Wedding
While a destination wedding offers plenty of perks—like breathtaking views and an unforgettable experience—it also comes with important factors to consider before making the decision. Planning from afar can introduce unique challenges, particularly when it comes to managing logistics across time zones and ensuring smooth travel arrangements for both you and your guests. Coordinating everything remotely, from venue tours to vendor meetings, can require a bit more effort and organization than a local wedding.
Budgeting is another critical aspect to keep in mind. Destination weddings can sometimes lead to unexpected costs, whether it's for accommodations or shipping decor It’s important to plan carefully and leave some room for flexibility in your budget.
Additionally, your chosen destination could impact who’s able to attend. Some guests may find it difficult to commit due to travel costs or time constraints. This makes it essential to consider guest support, whether through helping with travel recommendations, offering a room block, or even live-streaming the ceremony for those who can’t make it. Ultimately, balancing the logistics, budget, and guest experience will ensure that your destination wedding is both enjoyable and stress-free for everyone involved.
Key Questions to Ask Yourself
If you’re wondering whether a destination wedding is the perfect fit, start by asking yourself a few important questions. First, consider your lifestyle and wedding vision: what kind of experience do you want to create for yourselves and your guests? Do you dream of a more intimate celebration in a stunning location, or are you set on a larger event closer to home?
Next, evaluate your financial readiness. Destination weddings can come with extra costs—think travel, accommodations, and even shipping decor—so it’s important to be realistic about your budget. Can you comfortably handle these additional expenses while still creating the wedding you’ve envisioned?
By reflecting on these questions, you’ll gain clarity on whether a destination wedding is the right choice for your special day. We hope that this has been helpful in highlighting a few way to know if a destination wedding is the right choice for you. If you’re interested in exploring this option further, reach out to Love Letter Weddings for a personalized consultation to discuss your vision!
