Surely planning a wedding abroad is no different to planning one at home?
Oh, but it is! It’s as simple as this: if you can get stressed when your wedding is on your very doorstep, imagine what it will be like if it’s was 2000 miles away!
If you have decided to head to a destination where the sun shines high in the sky and the vibe is that of relaxation, there are a few things you should remember. Read on for our tips on planning a wedding abroad.
Hire a wedding planner
Whereas hiring a wedding planner at home can be thought of as an expensive luxury, when it comes to getting married abroad a wedding planner is a must! We had a quick chat with Algarve Weddings who explained the benefits of having a local planner to guide you through each step.
“There are so many benefits that come with hiring a wedding planner abroad as they will have extensive knowledge of the area, the vendors you will be using and the venues available to you. At Algarve Weddings we are able to guide each couple through the choice of venues available and offer them pros and cons of each possibility. No amount of online research can compete with someone who knows the area first hand. Obviously, if you choose a country where a different language is spoken, your planner will make communication much easier as they will speak the local dialect.”
Consider your guest list
As soon as you decide to get married abroad you are realistically cutting your number of wedding guests down to a smaller number. Don’t take it personally if someone you invite doesn’t go. Remember, we are living in very testing times – not everyone will be able to take the time away from work or be able to afford it. In this case a party at home on your return is a great idea!
Which destination?
Have you somewhere that means a lot to you? Just because you have decided to tie the knot abroad, doesn’t mean you have to choose a wedding on the beach. There are lots of different options out there. Your wedding planner will be able to guide you through the various locations before you make your choice.
Embrace the culture
Marrying in the Algarve? Why not toast your day with Espumante, the Portugese equivalent of champagne? There are many ways to can incorporate your destination into your wedding, whether you choose to use a local band, carry flowers native to the country or feast on their traditional wedding breakfast. You’ve gone there to do the most important thing you’ll ever do in your life, embrace your surroundings!
Don’t forget your honeymoon!
Yes, you’re technically already on honeymoon but why not head away into the mountains to a secret cabin for a couple of nights, or disappear in a camper van after your wedding? You’re already abroad, you may as well milk it!
All this marrying abroad talk has got us reaching for our passports! Are you tying the knot overseas, we’d love to hear how you’re tackling the planning. Let us know with a comment!
With thanks to Algarve Weddings for offering their advice to us and supplying the images above. For more information visit Algarve Weddings.
