With weddings planned and coordinated in Sydney, Toronto, London, and Cancun, Intrigue has no shortage of experience throwing a great party across the globe (not to mention countless destination weddings in Charleston!) To help you create a remarkable & unforgettable celebration, we have prepared a list of ten planning tips to make your visions come true.
1. Organize a detailed timeline
This includes for the day of as well as the days leading up to your wedding. If working with a wedding planner, collaborate with one another to create a timeline that makes the event move seamlessly and naturally. For meetings, calls, and appointments, be sure to use an intricate calendar to mark all your deadlines.
2. Send your invites out early!
By doing so, your guests will have enough time to RSVP and make travel arrangements. Additionally, getting a precise headcount will allow you to receive a precise quote from your vendors.
3. Contact vendors well in advance
With plenty of time to research vendors in the area, you will be able to compare their services and find those that are applicable for your wedding style.
4. Book accommodations for your guests
Be sure to block out hotel rooms and offer a few choices to ensure you meet the needs and budgets for all your guests.
5. Visit the location in person if possible
You want to ensure that everything appears as it does online. If you cannot, we recommend having your planner do a video walk through with you.
6. Bring your dress on board the plane with you!
If it will be bunched up in a tight space, make arrangements for someone to professionally steam it upon your arrival at your destination.
7. Take into consideration the exchange rate if your wedding is international
Your budget at home can go a lot farther, or shorter, in another country. The customs in different locations will also be reflected in your budget (see #8).
8. If marrying overseas, learn the culture of the other country
You may want to add some of their traditions into your ceremony or reception. For example, Italy offers more orthodox wedding ceremonies while in Colombia the celebration lasts for an entire 24 hours! Adopting these rituals can alter your budget.
9. Consider all weather options
If you are getting married in an outdoor venue, be sure to have a backup plan in case of bad weather. Look at the potential indoor space and learn the layout to strategically plan for the set up of stations and seating to ensure your wedding runs smoothly.
10. Be relaxed and enjoy
This is the most wonderful experience of your life! By planning ahead, everything will fall perfectly into place that you and your guests will want to do it all over again!
