Our Guide to... Destination Weddings
With one in four couples now opting to hit the road and hold their nuptials away from home, the destination wedding trend shows no signs of slowing down! We can definitely understand the appeal – not only do you have the opportunity to see a beautiful new part of the world, it also lets you spend some real quality time with your guests. Here’s our guide to ensure you get the most out of the experience…
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Do your research
Planning a destination wedding can be quite different to planning a more traditional ceremony, so it’s very important that couples to do their research. You may have dreamed of a sunlight drenched beach ceremony, but consider the season you’re travelling during to be sure that you don’t encounter tropical storms or inclement weather. You should also research any political issues, from economic worries to health and safety, such as whether any religious or LGBT guests might feel uncomfortable in your chosen destination.
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Send your invitations early
While it’s usually considered best to follow up your save-the-dates with invites around 6-8 weeks before the wedding, this simply isn’t enough time when planning a destination wedding. It’s crucial that you allow your guests enough time to confirm holidays from work, save money for the trip and apply for any necessary documentation. We’d recommend sending your save-the-dates as soon as you’ve set your location, and posting your official invitations with a minimum of three months to go.
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Getting there
It can be challenging enough to arrange a wedding suitable for all of your guests to attend at home, so going away can seem like a logistical nightmare. Your priorities will include coordinating travel arrangements and securing appropriate accommodation at a price that’s suitable for all. One way to manage to this effectively is to pick a travel agent, who can help make group arrangements and help your guests with reminders. If the agent is paid by the resort or airline, there’s no additional cost for you, and it can reduce the stress you’re under significantly.
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Be clear about costs
It’s customary for guests to cover their own accommodation and transport costs when attending a destination wedding – though it’s essential that you make this clear in your communications to avoid any confusion or later awkwardness. One way to do this is to supply advice on getting the best rates on travel costs and accommodation recommendations – this is one of the more subtle options, but still makes it clear that the onus is on the guest to pay. If there are costs you are covering for your guests, such as transfers between the airport and their hotel, it’s good to include this information too. Just make sure that you provide a range of price points, so that guests can plan according to their needs and not feel priced out of celebrating your big day.
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What about gifts?
If you’re holding a destination wedding, bear in mind that your guests will often spend a lot in order to be with you on your big day. There are also logistical issues involved with getting your gifts home if presented with them at your destination! Many couples holding destination weddings often forgo the wedding registry, opting to let their guests know that their presence is gift enough, or opt only for smaller, travel-friendly items, gift vouchers or a contribution to an experience at the destination itself.
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Is Scotland for you?
Now, we may be biased but if you’re looking for a beautiful backdrop for your own wedding, we think that Scotland is the perfect choice. Not only is there beautiful scenery and romantic venues like ours, the marriage laws here are much more liberal than in other countries, giving you the freedom to celebrate in a way that suits you as a couple! You can read more about getting married in Scotland in our blog here.
If you'd like to find out more about getting married at The National Piping Centre, contact us on 0141 353 5551 or email This email address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it.