If you just got engaged, congratulations! I’m sure you are on a cloud of happiness and eager to start organizing the wedding, but there is always a dilemma: how to organize the wedding budget, especially if they are the expenses of a destination wedding!
In addition to the costs that we already know that exist, such as the wedding dress, invitations, photographers and so on, organizing a destination wedding is not an easy task, since there are many more things to keep in mind than a normal wedding.
Therefore, in this article we show you what are all those destination wedding expenses to keep in mind and that you may have overlooked.
Let’s get started!
Destination Wedding Expenses: Venue
Choosing a venue is one of the most exciting and crucial aspects of planning a destination wedding. The possibilities are endless and varied, opening up a range of opportunities to create the perfect event.
Imagine an intimate wedding in Spain, an elopement full of charm and romance in a picturesque corner. This type of celebration is ideal for couples looking for a private and personal experience. On the other hand, if you prefer something grander, how about a wedding on the golden beaches of the Algarve? Surrounded by the beauty of the ocean and with a sea breeze that makes everything more magical.
The cost of the venue will vary depending on your choices and the number of guests. If you opt for an intimate wedding, a small and cozy space will suffice. On the other hand, if you dream of a big party with all your friends and family, you will need a larger venue that can accommodate everyone.
In short, the cost of the venue is the first thing to keep in mind as it will be the one that will mark many other aspects. For example, the accommodation.
Destination Wedding Expenses: Accommodations
One of the key aspects to consider when planning a destination wedding is guest accommodations. Depending on where the ceremony is being held, it is essential to think about where the attendees will stay throughout the celebration.
Imagine a beach wedding, with the sound of the waves in the background. In this case, an ideal option would be for guests to stay at a large hotel near the shore. Not only will they have the comfort of resting before the ceremony, but after the celebration they will be able to relax and recharge their batteries without worrying about long journeys.
Another lovely possibility is to host your guests in a villa. Villas are usually spacious, with multiple rooms, and offer a more intimate and familiar atmosphere. This allows everyone to share special moments together before and after the big day.
Lodging is another destination wedding expense to consider, as it is an important factor that can influence the comfort and experience of your guests. Whether it’s a luxurious beachfront hotel or a cozy villa, choosing the right place for everyone to feel at ease will make your destination wedding even more memorable.
Destination Wedding Expenses: Transportation
Once you’ve chosen the venue and secured accommodations for your guests, it’s time to think about how everyone will get around. Arranging transportation is essential to ensure that everyone arrives comfortably and on time.
For guests who are unable to arrive in their own vehicle, renting a bus can be an excellent option. This way, everyone can enjoy the trip together, with no parking worries. In addition, this adds a touch of organization and care towards your loved ones, ensuring that they arrive at the event without mishaps.
And, of course, we can’t forget about the transportation of the bride and groom. Can you imagine making a classic entrance in an elegant car? Or, if you prefer something more original and romantic, arriving in a carriage is a spectacular option! This detail will not only add a touch of magic to your arrival, but will also be engraved in the memory of everyone present.
Also, if your destination wedding is out of the country, one of the destination wedding expenses to keep in mind is transportation via plane or boat.
Destination wedding expenses: VAT and taxes
Among the expenses of a destination wedding it is crucial to take into account the VAT and taxes that may apply depending on where and how you decide to celebrate.
If you are foreigners and want to get married in Spain, there are a series of legal requirements that you must comply with in order to make your wedding official, whether it is a civil or religious ceremony. This includes the necessary documentation and the corresponding fees, as well as the VAT that may apply to the different services you hire.
The same applies if you are Spanish and decide to get married in another country. Each destination has its own laws and requirements for getting married, and it is essential to know them in advance. From the legalization of documents to the payment of specific taxes, each country has its own particularities that must be managed to ensure that your wedding goes smoothly.
Destination Wedding Expenses: Gifts for Guests
It’s always a lovely gesture to have a special detail for the people who accompany you on a moment as significant as your wedding. Making sure your guests feel appreciated and remembered can be simple and not necessarily costly.
A personalized gift is always welcome, how about a handmade keychain with the initials of each guest? It is a small but meaningful detail that they can carry with them and remember that special day.
Another practical and appreciated idea is a flip-flop kit. After a long day of celebrations, everyone will love being able to change into something more comfortable to continue enjoying the party without worrying about tired feet.
And we can’t forget the little ones. If you have children as guests, consider giving them a small game or activity kit. This will not only keep them entertained, but will also make them feel included in the celebrations.
In short, gifts for guests don’t have to be exuberant to be memorable. The important thing is that each gift is given with love and appreciation, reflecting the importance they have for you on that special day. Small gestures can create big memories!
Destination Wedding Expenses: Clothing for the chosen destination
As we have already mentioned, choosing the venue is fundamental, but it is equally important to think about the right clothes for that destination. If you are coming from a northern country and your ceremony will be in the south of Spain, the most important thing is to wear light and fresh clothes. In this autonomous community, regardless of the province, temperatures are usually very high.
On the other hand, if you decide to celebrate your wedding in the north, surrounded by nature and beautiful landscapes, be prepared for a different climate. In this area, the weather is usually cloudy and rainy, so don’t forget to bring an umbrella. An outfit that protects you from the cold and rain will be essential to enjoy your special day without mishaps.
Expenses of a destination wedding: Pre-wedding and Post-wedding
When planning a destination wedding, you have the wonderful opportunity to extend the celebration over several days. What does this mean? That you can organize additional events before or after the big day to make the most of the venue and share special moments with your loved ones, which entails having these destination wedding expenses.
Pre-wedding: Getting to know the Destination
If you want to do something before the wedding, consider a pre-wedding. Depending on where you are, you can take the opportunity to explore a bit more of the city or country you’re in. Organize an excursion to visit emblematic places, enjoy the local gastronomy or simply stroll around and discover charming corners. Another option is a mini-celebration with the people closest to you. An intimate dinner or an informal party are excellent ways to start celebrating with your loved ones.
Post wedding: Relaxation and Adventure
If you prefer to add events after the wedding, a post-wedding is an excellent option. It doesn’t have to be another big celebration; it can be a relaxing day at the spa to recover from the stress of the wedding. Imagine soaking in a tranquil pool, enjoying a revitalizing massage and simply relaxing.
On the other hand, if you are an adventure lover, take advantage of local activities. If you find yourself at the beach, consider water sports like snorkeling, paddle surfing or even a boat ride. These activities are not only fun, but also create unforgettable memories with your loved ones.
Being a destination wedding, you have the advantage of turning the celebration into a multi-day experience filled with special moments and memorable activities. Whether exploring the destination before the big day or relaxing afterwards, each added moment will make your wedding even more unforgettable.
Destination Wedding Expenses: Expenses associated with the Honeymoon
Whether you decide to begin your honeymoon in the same destination where you got married, or if you choose a new location for this adventure, there are several expenses to consider to ensure a smooth experience.
Depending on the destination you choose, you may need visas. These documents allow legal entry and stay in the country, and their cost can vary. Be sure to research specific requirements and arrange visas in advance to avoid last-minute surprises.
Make sure your passports are current and do not expire during your trip. Some countries require passports to be valid for at least six months from the date of entry. Also, if you plan to rent a car and explore on your own, you will need an international driver’s license. This document is essential in many destinations and facilitates mobility and adventure during your honeymoon.
In short, planning the administrative and legal aspects of your honeymoon is essential to fully enjoy this unique experience. Whether you decide to extend the magic of your wedding destination or venture to a new place, having all the documents and permits in order will allow you to focus on the most important thing: enjoying your time together and creating unforgettable memories.
Don’t miss these articles where we tell you which are the best destinations for a honeymoon in Spain, for a honeymoon in France, for a honeymoon in Portugal, or for a honeymoon in Italy.
The best wedding planner helps you with your destination wedding expenses
We know that celebrating a destination wedding can make it difficult for your friends or family to attend, and that it involves a lot of stress, because you have to take into account many things, for that reason it is necessary to have a good wedding planner to help you organize that destination wedding that you want so much and that is so complicated to organize.
Weddings and Events by Natalia Ortiz is the best of them, expert in organizing destination weddings and with whom all your doubts will be solved in a moment, don’t hesitate!
Contact us and we will help you organize your destination wedding in the easiest way possible.