The Largo Resort Blog

Photo Credit: Mermaid and Me Photography | Event Planner: LMae, An Event Company

What is A Destination Wedding & Why Have One

January 9, 2024

So, What Are Destination Weddings?

Having a destination wedding involves couples exchanging vows in a location away from their hometown in a magical setting like tropical beaches or picturesque European towns, or even serene vineyards and mountainside retreats. It’s about crafting an occasion that merges the wedding festivities with a getaway vibe. These weddings usually have an intimate guest list to create a connected and personal atmosphere, with only your dearest friends and family members present. The wonderful aspect of it all? You have the chance to rejoice in your affection, in a location creating memories that will endure forever. 

Domestic or International

Destination weddings can be held in various locations, including domestic destinations such as Hawaii, Las Vegas, and Florida, or international destinations such as the Caribbean, Mexico, and Europe. The choice of location often depends on the couple’s preferences, budget, and the number of guests they plan to invite. Whether you dream of a tropical beach, a historic city, or a scenic countryside, there are endless possibilities for your wedding destination.

Often chosen for its beauty, romance, or special meaning to the couple

Couples often choose a destination wedding location for its beauty, romance, or special meaning to them. For example, a couple may choose a beach destination for its picturesque views, a mountain resort for its scenic landscapes, or a city destination for its cultural attractions. The location may also hold special meaning to the couple, such as where they first met, had their first date, or got engaged. This personal connection can make the wedding even more special and memorable.

Top 5 Reasons To Have A Destination Wedding

Are you in the wedding-planning process and looking for ways to add memories to your special day? If so, choosing a unique location can add excitement to the occasion that would not come with a local wedding.

A destination wedding provides guests with curated experiences around the chosen location, making the event more memorable and personalized.

With a specific destination for your wedding, you can organize the celebration in a way that helps make your dream wedding a reality. This strategy can also reduce stress in the processes of event planning and managing costs.

Staying at Largo Resort not only offers a memorable retreat, but also a wedding that goes above expectations. Here are our five reasons to have a destination wedding!

Wedding planner holding a clipboard, talking to a couple

1. Stress-Free Planning

Planning a wedding is no easy task, but when you have a destination already decided on, this process can be made much easier with destination wedding packages. With a resort decided on, you already have access to wedding packages that take care of all the details, making your life a LOT easier.

Destination weddings often eliminate the need to coordinate with multiple reception venues, as resorts provide on-site wedding teams that streamline the planning process. A destination wedding planner is usually provided by the resort and can handle the planning process for you, as well as help organize travel for your guests- Sight of relief. Destination weddings ensure you have professionals to handle the floral arrangements, food, reception, and other important aspects of the occasion so you can spend more time connecting with your family and friends.

2. Memorable Photos and Videos WITH A DESTINATION WEDDING PHOTOGRAPHER

Looking back on your wedding fondly will involve taking the right photos and videos in the moment. When it comes to a destination wedding at Largo Resort, you will have access to beautiful scenery for your wedding photos.

In advance, take time to learn about your destination to see if there are any breathtaking landscapes or unique architecture that you can include in your photos. Having the ceremony at the right time can add amazing sunsets to your photos, and videos with loved ones in unique locations can create fun memories.

Happy bride and groom hugging on a path surrounded by tropical lush greenery at Largo Resort
Photo Credit: Annie Cooper Photography | Event Planner: LMae, An Event Company
Wedding reception tables set up on the beach at Largo Resort
Photo Credit: Yes I Do Productions

3. Saving Wedding Costs

One of the many challenges of the wedding-planning process is figuring out how to save money and keep your wallet from becoming completely empty. However, choosing a special destination for your wedding will allow you to actually save on costs.

For example, at Largo Resort, you can stay for your wedding and honeymoon, which saves you money compared to using different locations for these occasions. An all-inclusive destination wedding helps you to be cost-effective on the ceremony, food and drinks, flowers, and entertainment all while giving you the opportunity to relax, enjoy the beach, and spend quality time with your guests and new partner.

4. Intimate Guest List

Achieving your dream wedding involves being able to share your special day with those that matter most to you. Destination weddings can focus on offering an intimate experience, which includes inviting fewer guests, since many invitees will likely not be able to make the trip (sometimes for financial reasons, and other times for family or work reasons- that’s life!). This smaller guest list fosters a more intimate atmosphere. Those attendees who do make it to your wedding will view the event as a chance for travel and celebration after being mostly confined during the pandemic!

Wedding ceremony on a pier overlooking the ocean
Photo Credit: Stacia Morgan Photography
Couple doing a first look for their traditional Chinese wedding tea ceremony
Photo Credit: Stacia Morgan Photography

5. Unique Ceremonies

A traditional wedding will of course be an exciting occasion, but a destination event in a unique location can add to your celebration in ways you wouldn’t experience otherwise. For instance at Largo Resort, you can host the ceremony outside under the sun on our beach- or in one of our secluded vignettes next to nature and water! With a special location for your wedding, you and your spouse can share amazing moments with each other and loved ones.

Planning a Destination Wedding

Planning a destination wedding can be a complex and time-consuming process, but with the right guidance, it can be a fun and exciting experience. Here are some tips to help you plan your dream destination wedding:

How to Plan a Destination Wedding

  1. Choose a destination: Select a location that fits your budget, guest list, and preferences. Consider factors such as travel time, accommodation options, and local wedding laws.
  2. Research and visit potential locations: Research potential locations and visit them in person to get a feel for the area, meet with vendors, and inspect potential venues.
  3. Set a budget: Determine your overall wedding budget and allocate funds for transportation, accommodation, food, and activities.
  4. Create a guest list: Decide who to invite and send out save-the-dates or invitations well in advance to give guests time to plan their travel.
  5. Choose a wedding date: Select a date that works for you and your partner, and ensure that it doesn’t conflict with other events or holidays.
  6. Research local wedding laws: Familiarize yourself with local wedding laws and regulations, including requirements for marriage licenses, witnesses, and ceremonies.
  7. Book vendors and services: Research and book vendors and services, such as photographers, videographers, florists, and caterers, who have experience with destination weddings.
  8. Plan activities and excursions: Plan activities and excursions for your guests, such as group outings, tours, or spa treatments.
  9. Coordinate logistics: Coordinate logistics, such as transportation, accommodation, and catering, for your guests.
  10. Review and finalize details: Review and finalize all details, including the wedding ceremony, reception, and activities, to ensure a smooth and enjoyable experience for you and your guests.

 

By following these steps, you can plan a successful and memorable destination wedding that you and your guests will cherish forever.

With a special location for your wedding, you and your spouse can share amazing moments with each other and loved ones. Book with Largo Resort today to make your dream wedding come true.

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