Destination Weddings
Destination weddings have become one of the most exciting ways to say “I do.” Whether you picture a huge gathering of friends and family on a tropical beach or a tiny ceremony abroad followed by a big celebration back home, the appeal is undeniable: adventure, beauty, and an experience everyone will remember.
But along with the romance comes something far less glamorous: legal logistics. And while they’re not fun to think about, getting them right is crucial.
Let’s break down the two main styles of destination weddings and what you need to know before taking your vows abroad.
A big destination wedding is exactly what it sounds like: you bring the whole crew to a faraway location. It’s festive, immersive, and often feels like a days-long holiday with everyone you love. This is wonderful because guests spend real time together—meals, excursions, sunset drinks. It's a holiday with all your favourite people. Beaches, vineyards, mountain lodges, historic villages… the options are endless. Resorts and venues often offer full planning services, making logistics simpler. The obvious downside is cost—this can be expensive, and not all guests can afford to join you. So if you're okay with some friends and family not joining, a destination wedding could be perfect for you. Think outside the box—French, Tuscan villa, or ski lodge!!
You can invite everybody to join you in the run-up to the wedding, then stay for a few days on your own afterwards. Nobody wants to spend their honeymoon with great Aunty Joan.
There are amazing wedding planners that specialise in destination weddings, so check them out. Local florists, caterers, etc., are part of the fun, but you might want to consider asking a British photographer to join you for the big day. Many photographers will leap at the chance to capture a destination wedding. At least you're guaranteed to get beautiful photos of your special day.
Destination weddings can be expensive, but if you break it down, it can be done.a honeymoon. The wedding day will be much cheaper than in the UK. You can ask guests for no gift; their presence is definitely your present. If you tell people a year in advance, then they can make it part ofliday. You won't need their annual ho
This is where things get serious. Every country has its own marriage laws, and some are surprisingly strict.
Typical requirements abroad can include:
Minimum stay before the ceremony (often 1–7 days)
Certified birth certificates or passports
Divorce decrees or death certificates (if applicable)
Blood tests (still required in a few places)
Residency requirements
Local officiants or witnesses
In some destinations, couples must submit documents months in advance or have them translated and notarised, so many couples avoid legal headaches by completing the legal marriage at home and having a symbolic ceremony at the destination. Alternatively, they can do it the other way round... This trend is rapidly growing: the couple has an intimate ceremony abroad, just the two of them or a few guests, then hosts a larger celebration back home with a celebrant-led ceremony.
It offers the best of both worlds. It can be simple, romantic, and stress-free. The ceremony can be private and meaningful without host pressures. It allows you to spend on travel and photography, then plan a casual (or lavish!) party later. You can have your “at home” ceremony whenever and wherever you want. You don'ttraditional venue that will charge a fortune. You can have your ceremony and party at the local bar, your back garden, the beach, or a nightclub. There’s no need to worry about guest logistics; everyone celebrates eventually, even if they don’t travel. need to book a
Final Tips Before Planning Your Destination Wedding
Contact local authorities or the embassy early to confirm requirements.
Ask your venue or planner – they often handle this regularly.
Budget for document translations and notarisations if marrying abroad.
Be clear with guests whether the ceremony is legal or symbolic.
Keep multiple copies of all marriage documents for future use.
Tell people in advance, give them time to plan and save.
A destination wedding – large or small – can be magical. Just ensure legal surprises don’t overshadow the romance. With some planning, you can enjoy your dream setting, celebrate the way you want, and return home fully, officially married (or ready to be!).