The Newest Destination Wedding Etiquette
Destination weddings have become a staple over the last decade or so. As popular as they are, they do have some special unique considerations that all couples should keep in mind. This is the newest etiquette for destination weddings.
When you imagine your destination wedding, the first thing that likely springs to mind is the romance of walking down a sandy aisle, all decked out in a tropical style bridal gown and beach wedding jewelry. You and your beloved will exchange your vows while the surf gently crashes in the background, and dance the night away to the sound of steel drums as the sun sets over the ocean. Okay, now let me share with you what most guests think when they are invited to a destination wedding: “Oh my gosh, this is going to cost me a bloody fortune!”. Followed by, “I am going to have to use up most of my vacation time on this wedding!”. What is the wedding of your dreams is also likely a major hassle for many of your guests.
The main thing to keep in mind when planning a destination wedding is how what you do and say will affect others. For instance, how many times have you heard a bride delightedly remark upon how much money she is saving by having a small destination wedding rather than a big blow-out at home? That is all well and good, except that while she may be saving money, her guests are likely to spend thousands of their own dollars flying to a remote destination and staying at a resort. You would do well to tell your guests that you chose a far-flung location for your wedding because it is so meaningful to you, not because it is cheaper, because it isn’t for them.
A very sticky subject with destination weddings is the guest list. Couples frequently decide to have a tropical wedding because they see it as a way to keep the guest list small, which can end up causing hurt feelings. One possible solution is to invite a very small core of family to join you for the destination wedding and then follow it with a larger reception at home. That way, no one feels left out, nor will they feel obligated to spend more than they can afford on your wedding. This can be a great solution: you get the small romantic beach wedding of your dreams, and those that care about you will still feel like they are a part of the celebration.
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