The Ultimate Guide to Planning a Destination Wedding Without the Stress
March 28, 2025
Planning a destination wedding is one of the most exciting adventures you can take on as a couple. Whether you’re dreaming of saying your vows on a beach in Hawaii, under a waterfall in Iceland, or on a vineyard in Italy, the idea of combining your love story with a beautiful location is pretty magical.
But as incredible as destination weddings can be, they also come with their own unique challenges—and I’ve seen firsthand how a little guidance and preparation can go a long way in making the entire experience smoother, less stressful, and way more fun.
Here are some real-world tips and tricks to help you plan the destination wedding of your dreams—with fewer surprises and a lot more confidence.
1. Choose a Location That Fits You (Not Just Instagram)
It’s easy to fall in love with stunning photos of mountaintop ceremonies or black sand beaches on social media—but your destination should be about more than just the aesthetic.
Ask yourselves:
- Is this a place that means something to us?
- Will it be comfortable for the kind of celebration we want?
- Will our guests realistically be able to get there (if we’re inviting guests)?
Whether it’s a sentimental spot, a bucket-list destination, or somewhere you’ve always dreamed of exploring together, make sure it feels like you.
2. Research the Best Time to Go (Beyond Weather)
Weather is a huge factor, but don’t stop there. Be sure to consider:
- Tourist seasons (busy crowds and inflated pricing)
- Local events or holidays that may affect availability or transportation
- Off-seasons, which might be cheaper but come with trade-offs like limited daylight or frequent rain
Also, look into marriage license rules—some countries have waiting periods or specific documentation requirements. You’ll want to build in time and flexibility if you’re planning to legally marry abroad.
3. Work With Local Experts (or Bring Your Own Dream Team)
Having vendors who know the location can be incredibly helpful—planners, coordinators, and florists who are familiar with the area can help you avoid common mistakes and make the most of what’s available.
But when it comes to photography (and sometimes video), consider bringing someone you already know and trust.
Here’s why:
- You’ve already built a connection and know what to expect
- You’ll get consistent communication, editing style, and quality
- I’ll arrive early to scout, adapt quickly, and bring backup gear—because I’ve done this before
Destination weddings often move fast and have unpredictable elements, so it helps to have someone in your corner who’s focused on you, not juggling back-to-back bookings.
4. Keep the Guest Experience in Mind
If you’re inviting friends and family, think about what it’ll be like for them to travel:
- Offer travel tips, hotel suggestions, and transportation info on your website
- Consider group activities or welcome dinners to help everyone feel included
- Be mindful of accessibility if you have guests with mobility concerns
If you’re eloping or planning an intimate wedding with just a few people, don’t be afraid to simplify. Some of the most beautiful destination weddings I’ve photographed were small, intentional, and totally stress-free.
5. Build a Flexible Timeline
Destination weddings usually involve travel, unpredictable weather, and unfamiliar environments—so flexibility is key. Build in buffer time for:
- Travel delays
- Outfit changes
- Photos at multiple locations
- Rest (seriously—don’t overbook your wedding day!)
If you’re traveling to a place known for weather mood swings (hello, Iceland), I always recommend planning an extra day or two for photos in case you need to adjust.
6. Pack Smart and Prepare for the Unexpected
Here are a few things to keep in mind:
- Carry your dress/suit on the plane—never check it.
- Bring travel-sized versions of your must-have beauty products (some brands are hard to find internationally).
- Pack a basic emergency kit: sewing needle, safety pins, wrinkle release spray, portable steamer, stain remover wipes, and backup shoes.
- Double check power adapters, chargers, and backup storage for your devices.
And pro tip: Have printed copies of your itinerary, vendor contacts, and important travel docs just in case your phone dies or you lose Wi-Fi.
7. Don’t Be Afraid to Break Tradition
Just because you’re having a destination wedding doesn’t mean it has to follow a script.
Want to wear hiking boots under your dress? Go for it.
Want to read your vows on a mountaintop at sunrise and have tacos by a fire that night? Do it.
Want to combine a cultural tradition with a new twist that fits your vibe? Absolutely.
This is your celebration. Let it reflect your story.
8. Consider a Post-Wedding Adventure Session
Not everything has to happen on the wedding day. One of my favorite things to shoot is a day-after session or adventure session—it gives you more time to explore your destination in a more relaxed way.
We can chase golden hour, explore waterfalls, climb dunes, or walk through an ancient village—all without the stress of a tight wedding timeline.
9. Hire a Photographer Who’s Built for the Journey
If you’re planning a wedding away from home, you need a photographer who’s:
- Flexible and prepared for anything
- Comfortable traveling with gear
- Quick to adapt to weather, light, and unexpected changes
- Invested in your story, not just the location
That’s where I come in.
I specialize in capturing real emotion in incredible places—and I’ve spent years dialing in a photography style that blends candid storytelling with cinematic, natural light imagery. I’ll help you plan ahead, make sure you feel confident and relaxed, and then deliver photos that take you right back to every moment.
Let’s Go Where Your Story Leads
Whether you’re dreaming of eloping in Iceland, tying the knot on the cliffs of Santorini, or dancing barefoot under the stars in Costa Rica—I’m here for it.
Let’s create something that reflects your adventure.
Let’s tell your story somewhere unforgettable.
📍 Based in California – Available worldwide
✈️ Passport ready. Adventure welcome.
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