For couples working with a budget, a destination wedding doesn’t have to be out of reach.
If you’re set on tying the knot in a dreamy location, but don’t have unlimited funds to make it happen, being savvy with your wedding planning and spending can ultimately save you money. Dr. Terika L. Haynes, the CEO and founder of Dynamite Travel, is an award-winning travel advisor who shared planning tips exclusively with Travel Noire. Via her business, she’s helped others plan luxury vacations and destination weddings for over 15 years.
Regarding where to start planning an affordable destination wedding, Haynes said a couple should clearly identify their “top priorities.” What that looks like is firstly deciding when and where they’ll say “I do.” After that, the lovebirds should settle on their overall budget, estimated guest count, and desired location.
“These factors influence every other decision, from venue selection to travel logistics,” said Haynes. “Establishing priorities early allows couples to make intentional trade-offs, thoughtful modifications, and avoid overspending. [Then they can] focus their budget on the elements that matter most to them, whether that’s the theme, guest experience, or photography.”
Are There Certain Locations And Property Types That Tend To Be More Affordable For Destination Weddings?
According to Haynes, yes, there are.
If affordability is what you’re after, the expert says Mexico, the Dominican Republic, or Jamaica “consistently offer more affordable options compared to many other international wedding locations.”
As she explained, another benefit of the destinations above is that they all already have a “strong destination wedding infrastructure.” With that established, couples may be able to take advantage of destination wedding packages, designated offers, or discounts on an accommodation block for their wedding party. Additionally, Mexico, the Dominican Republic, and Jamaica offer wide selections of all-inclusive resorts for various budgets.
“All-inclusive properties are especially budget-friendly for destination weddings because they often include wedding packages, on-site coordinators, and bundled services that reduce both costs and planning complexities for couples and their guests,” Haynes emphasized.
Are There Any Sneaky Or Hidden Costs Couples Should Watch For? And How Can They Be Reduced?
Haynes says, “Common hidden costs include floral arrangements, audiovisual equipment, sound systems, DJs, and photography services.” Needing artificial lighting, like at your reception venue, could also run up your overall wedding price tag.
“These expenses can add up quickly if couples are not careful,” Haynes explained. “To manage costs, couples should consider using seasonal, locally sourced flowers, having their ceremonies during times with optimal natural light, and carefully reviewing what their resort or venue package includes.”
“Bringing in outside vendors such as a DJ or photographer can sometimes be cost-effective. However, couples should factor in potential vendor or permit fees charged by the resort,” she added.
Are There Ways To Secure Local Vendors Affordably?
Haynes says working with a knowledgeable and experienced travel advisor “can simplify the process.”
Couples with a short timeframe until the wedding or who can afford to outsource their planning will benefit from working with an advisor. As Haynes highlighted, advisors “often have established relationships and trusted referrals.” That said, for couples planning their nuptials independently, the Dynamite Travel founder noted that there are still ways they can find affordable local vendors.
“Thorough online research, reading recent reviews, and asking resorts for vetted vendor recommendations can also be effective. To avoid surprises later, couples should always request detailed quotes and confirm exactly what products and/or services are included,” said Haynes.
What Top Tip Should Couples Consider When Planning A Destination Wedding On A Budget?
The travel expert says the best thing a couple can do is to “start planning as early as possible.”
“Early planning helps couples secure preferred dates and have access to better pricing. It also gives guests adequate notice for budgeting their travels,” Haynes stated.
“Couples should remain flexible with non-essential elements and be clear with guests about expected costs and timelines. By focusing their budget on the aspects of the wedding that are most meaningful, and scaling back elsewhere, couples can create a beautiful and memorable destination wedding without overspending.”
