Whether you're doing a destination wedding for the first time or it's something that you've been planning for years, there are some things to consider when preparing for your big day. You want to make sure that everything goes smoothly from start to finish, but also that you have fun doing it! Here are some tips for making sure your destination wedding is one that will be remembered by all involved:


Destination weddings are a fantastic option, but they can be stressful. To make you and your guests' lives a little easier, remember to give yourself and your guests enough notice to prepare, pick a photographer that can capture the whole experience, and embrace the change of scenery when you get to your destination!

Destination weddings are a fantastic option, but they can be stressful. To make you and your guests' lives a little easier, remember to give yourself and your guests enough notice to prepare, pick a photographer that can capture the whole experience, and embrace the change of scenery when you get to your destination! You want everything about this day to be special; however, if people aren't given enough time to plan ahead then their excitement may drop off quickly. That's why it's important that you give yourself plenty of time before the big day comes around so that everyone can enjoy themselves without having any last minute stresses or worries weighing them down!


Pick A Photographer That You Love.

Once you've settled on your destination, the next step is to find a photographer that you love. There are certain things to look for here. If you like candid shots, make sure that's what they do. The last thing you want is for your photos to be stiff and posed! More importantly, make sure they can capture the whole experience—from the getting ready process through the actual wedding day itself. Some people may be more comfortable with posing for pictures than others. A good photographer will get those candid shots while still staying true to their style and personality as well as yours! Lastly, make sure they're professional but fun at the same time—you don't want someone who takes themselves too seriously when there's so much laughter going around!


Focus On Your Guests.

It's important to remember that your guests are the reason you're celebrating in the first place. You should take care of them as best as you can, but don't forget to thank them for coming! Make sure they know that they're appreciated and that their presence means a lot to you.

  • Thank Your Photographer. A photographer is another person who will help make your day special, so make sure that he or she feels welcome and appreciated by giving a small gift at the end of his or her work with you.
  • Thank Your DJ/Band Guru for Playing The Perfect Song List. Having someone play music at one of the most memorable moments of your life is an honor—and it's only fair if he/she has some kind of compensation for this service! If there isn't a fee specified in his contract, maybe offer him some cake? That seems like an appropriate way for someone with such talent (and taste) deservedly enjoy themselves on your big day as well!


Give Your Guests Plenty Of Time To Save Up.

One of the best ways to do this is to give your guests plenty of time to save up, plan their trip and figure out what they're going to wear. It's important that you don't rush them into making a decision and find yourself convincing them more than you'd like.

If you're planning a destination wedding in Hawaii, for example, it may be wise to get married in February or March when prices are low but weather isn't too hot. This way your guests can enjoy their vacations without worrying about how much money they'll need later on down the road (or if they'll even have enough).


Think About The Light.

You'll want to consider the time of day and year, as well as your location. For instance, if you're getting married on a balcony overlooking the ocean during sunset, it's probably going to look amazing. But if you're scheduling your ceremony for 2 p.m., in winter at an indoor venue with no windows...not so much.

Also think about other things that can add drama or ambience: candles, string lights, lanterns and anything else that illuminates without emitting harsh light (like overhead fluorescent bulbs)! A couple of my favorite things are MoonBasket™ solar-powered lanterns (they come in different colors) and this gorgeous gold rope light from Amazon. If you have any tips for creating beautiful lighting I'd love them!


Embrace It!

When you step onto your destination wedding's turf, it's time to embrace the experience. You're going to be in a new place, surrounded by unfamiliar faces and things you've never done before. This is not a bad thing! The best part about having a destination wedding is that every moment can be an adventure—you're not just celebrating with family and friends but also exploring this new world together. Plus, if you get bored of any one aspect of your destination celebration (like sightseeing), there are so many more things to do that could keep everyone entertained for days on end.


This is your day, and you should be able to enjoy it as much as possible. So take these tips and make them your own, because the destination wedding experience should be a fun one!

If you're interested in learning more about budget-friendly options for your wedding photography, please contact us today! We'd be happy to chat with you about our packages and discounts.


Thank you for reading!


Affordable Wedding photography by Fungirlwithacamera Photography.


Hope from Fungirlwithacamera Photography specializes in affordable wedding photography as well as backyard wedding photography and small intimate weddings. Currently accepting weddings in East Brunswick, Highland Park and surrounding areas in New Jersey.