As much as you want your destination wedding to light up Instagram or TikTok, it’s a slippery slope. One moment, you’re planning to use local flowers in the centerpieces, the next, you’re shipping in two hundred exotic orchids after seeing the floral beauties on your favorite reality TV show. Use these tips to edit your vision into an affordable (and realistic) action plan. Luckily, there are impactful ways to save in some areas that will allow you to splurge in others, like adding more days onto your honeymoon or upgrading your suite.
SPEND LESS ON FLORALS
Chances are you picked your wedding destination because of its spectacular beauty, so forgo expensive over-the-top floral arrangements and let the natural surroundings shine. If fresh flowers are a must, save money with simple, local arrangements or add a splash of color with garlands or centerpieces made only from greenery. These vibrant, ontrend arrangements can be made with anything from ferns to rosemary and add major bang for the buck. You can also re-use your bridesmaids’ bouquets as centerpieces at the reception. Some resorts also offer some silk floral options for various pieces of decor to help reduce costs.
BUY AN AFFORDABLE DRESS
Wedding dresses by famous designers can really cut into your budget. Instead, opt for a gown you love. You should also avoid heavy and expensive fabrics like silk shantung. Fabrics such as chiffon are usually more affordable, and their breathability is perfect for tropical climates. It will also be easier to travel with your gown if it has less fabric. If you still crave a designer gown, consider finding it at a bridal consignment shop. Since they’ve only been worn once, the gowns are typically in excellent condition and sold at a fraction of the original price. You can also find many new selections as well that are last years style for example.
RECONSIDER FAVORS
While thoughtful, customized favors are a fast way to empty your pockets, think about what’s unique to your location and how you can incorporate that into your favors. If your destination wedding is in Hawaii, give out Kona coffee beans. Do you and your significant other have a charity that’s near and dear to your heart? Make a donation in your guests’ name in lieu of a tangible gift. Thinking local and personal will not only save you money, it will also fit right in with your wedding theme. If you plan to take items with you to destination, theres also the added luggage costs & declaring those items to consider.
TAKE ADVANTAGE OF WEDDING PACKAGES
Many all-inclusive resorts provide wedding packages that are not only affordable, but also they make hosting your wedding a tropical breeze. Some resorts even include free wedding packages if you stay a certain amount of nights or book a specific room category. By allowing the resort to take care of the flowers, reception venue, ceremony set up and more, you save both cash and stress. The destination itself is a dramatic backdrop so simple options can be just as beautiful too.
GET A TRAVEL ADVISOR
If your dream wedding includes a big smiling group of family and friends, you need a travel advisor. They can handle everything from coordinating airline reservations to arranging preferred room types. Not only will they ensure your guests arrive in a celebratory mood, but also they’ll take a load of stress off your shoulders. And thanks to group discounts, they can save you a lot of money in the process or help you earn some great benefits. What’s more, travel advisors can help you understand all safety precautions and cancellation policies, giving you and your family the peace of mind you need.