Planning a destination wedding is an exciting time. Imagine your dream day coming together in a location close to your heart. Not to mention bringing your closest family and friends together to celebrate with you and your partner. Before your wedding day arrives, there are some things you can do to help prepare for an effortless, stress-free and unforgettable experience.
1. Engage with a Wedding Planner
Photographer: Under the Veil
Working with a wedding planner, particularly for a destination wedding, is essential for a seamless, stress-free wedding celebration. We work closely with you to ensure every detail is covered. We’re on the ground and have direct access to your venue and vendors.
As your wedding day approaches, we will connect to confirm final numbers, timelines, and itineraries for you and your guests, as well as any updates and confirmations with your suppliers. Leave the logistics to us so your only focus is enjoying the day you always dreamed of!
Photographer: Under the Veil
Photographer: Peter Carvill
2. Create a Wedding Website
Photographer: Claire Studio Brown & Wonder & Magic
A helpful way to inform your guests of your wedding details is to set up a website. You can use any wedding website builder to fill in templates and pre-built pages with all your details.
Include information about accommodation, transport options, things to do in the area and any frequently asked questions so your guests have all the information they need in one place. Most wedding websites will also include an RSVP function so you can collect all responses and dietary requirements.
This means you can manage everything easily and your guests will have access to everything they need.
Photographer: Under the Veil Weddings
3. Plan a Welcome Event
Photographer: Peter Carvill
Planning a destination wedding means many guests may travel from overseas to your chosen location. A welcome dinner or an Irish pub night is a fun way to bring everyone together and start the celebrations.
Your guests will have a chance to meet each other, settle in, and learn more about your chosen destination. Your pre-wedding celebration will set the tone for your big day and give everyone a taste of the magic yet to come.
Photographer: Dermot Culhane
Photographer: Gareth McGaughey
4. Confirm RSVPs
Photographer: Ryan Devereux
It’s important to include a date for RSVPs to respond by, as you will need to confirm the numbers for your reception. If you reach the deadline and find some outstanding responses, you can follow up personally. Reach out by email or phone to send a gentle reminder and ask for confirmation.
Having a finalised guest list allows you to work closely with your planner to ensure that every detail, from seating arrangements to dietary requirements, is accounted for.
Photographer: Elaine Barker
Photographer: Under the Veil Weddings
5. Pack Ahead of Schedule
Photographer: Elaine Barker
While some items may be best left to pack on the day of travel, you can get ahead of what’s going to be a busy day by starting to pack early. Consider creating a checklist at least two weeks before you leave to avoid any last-minute overwhelm.
Include items such as passports, legal documents if required, wedding shoes, perfume, or garment bags for travelling. Packing ahead of schedule allows you to double-check what you need and make any necessary changes.
Photographer: Anna G
Photographer: Christina Brosnan
At Dream Irish Wedding, we have over 20 years of experience planning destination weddings in Ireland. Contacting us from the start means we can help you choose your dream location, advise on legal requirements, navigate your budget and provide you with an expert on-the-ground partnership to bring your dream wedding day together.