How to Choose the Right Location for a Destination Wedding Venue

Picture this: you’re standing barefoot in the sand as waves lap the shore behind you, or maybe you’re exchanging vows in a centuries-old castle with rolling green hills stretching to the horizon. Choosing where to get married sets everything else in motion. It’s the backdrop for one of the most meaningful days of your life, your wedding day, and the reason your favorite people will pack their bags and join you somewhere special.

At Journeys Inc., we’ve helped couples find their perfect wedding destinations for years. Some want pristine beaches, others crave vineyard views or mountain peaks. Here’s what we’ve learned about finding a place that feels just right for your dream destination wedding.

Before you fall down the Pinterest rabbit hole, think about the vibe you want. Casual and breezy? Elegant and refined? Rustic and intimate? Your wedding’s personality should guide your choice of destination.

A Caribbean beach wedding feels completely different from saying “I do” in a Tuscan villa or at a boutique hotel in downtown Barcelona. Neither is better than the other, but one will feel more like you.

Ask yourselves:

• • Are we formal dress-up people or more laid-back?
  • Do we dream of an outdoor ceremony or prefer being indoors?
  • Are we drawn to natural settings or do we love city energy?

When you pick a destination wedding that matches your style, everything else—from the décor to the dress—tends to fall into place more easily.

Your wedding guest list matters more than you might think when choosing a location. If Grandma Rose is 85 and has never flown internationally, maybe the castle in Scotland isn’t the most practical choice (though it would be magical).

Consider how far people will need to travel, what flights cost from your area, and whether there are enough hotels nearby. Some destinations work beautifully for big groups. Others are perfect for small, intimate gatherings or just the two of you. Choosing a wedding location that fits your guest list and travel needs makes the experience more enjoyable for everyone involved.

A good travel advisor can help you find that sweet spot between your dream location and what actually works for the people you want there.

Skip hurricane season in the Caribbean and Mexico (late summer through early fall). Europe’s shoulder seasons in spring and fall often give you better weather, smaller crowds, and lower prices. If you’re set on an outdoor ceremony, choose somewhere with predictable weather patterns.

Key weather tips to remember:

• • Avoid hurricane season in tropical areas (typically August through October)
  • Consider shoulder seasons in Europe (spring and fall) for better prices and fewer crowds
  • Research rainy seasons for your chosen destination
  • Have backup plans for outdoor ceremonies

Getting legally married abroad can occasionally be complicated. Some countries require blood tests, waiting periods, or specific documents that need to be translated and notarized. Others make it refreshingly simple.

Many couples we work with handle the legal paperwork at home with a small courthouse ceremony, then have their wedding day celebration abroad. It gives you more flexibility and removes a lot of stress from your planning process.

Destination weddings come with unique costs. You’re not just paying for a venue and catering anymore. Factor in travel for yourselves, accommodations, and potentially bringing in trusted vendors.

All-inclusive resorts can simplify budgeting by bundling everything together in a comprehensive wedding package. More remote or unique venues might cost extra to reach but offer one-of-a-kind experiences.

Set your budget early and stick to it. We can help you find destinations that deliver the atmosphere you want without breaking the bank.

Some destinations have thriving wedding industries with talented local photographers, florists, and planners. Others offer stunning views but limited vendor options.

Decide what matters most to you. Maybe you want to bring your photographer because they know your style perfectly. Or perhaps working with local vendors feels more authentic to your destination choice.

At Journeys Inc., we’ve built relationships with trusted professionals worldwide. We can connect you with people who understand both great weddings and their local area.

One of the best parts about destination weddings? Your celebration can stretch over several days. Welcome drinks the night before, a group excursion, and a farewell brunch. It becomes a mini-vacation with your favorite people rather than just a few hours of celebration.

We love helping couples plan these extended experiences. It’s often the casual moments between events where the best memories happen.

• • Riviera Maya, Mexico – Beautiful beaches and great value for your money. Plus, it’s relatively close for most North American guests.
  • Dominican Republic – White-sand beaches, turquoise waters, and a wide range of all-inclusive resorts make this Caribbean gem a favorite for stress-free, sun-soaked celebrations.
  • Maui, Hawaii – All the tropical beauty without needing passports. Stunning beaches and that laid-back island vibe.

Each of these destinations offers a variety of venue styles, from beachfront resorts to historic estates, giving you plenty of options to match your wedding vision.

Planning your destination wedding shouldn’t feel overwhelming. At Journeys Inc., our certified destination wedding specialists have helped plan some of the best destination weddings by focusing on what matters most to each couple. We handle everything from choosing your location to coordinating travel for your wedding party and guests. We want this process to be as exciting and stress-free as possible.

Ready to start exploring your wedding venue options? Contact us to schedule a consultation. Let’s find the perfect place for your special day!

What is the best month for a destination wedding?

The best month depends on your chosen location, but generally, late spring and early fall offer the most favorable weather and more affordable travel rates. For beach destinations, consider April, May, or early November.

How far in advance should I plan a destination wedding?

Most couples start planning 12 to 18 months in advance. This gives you time to secure your preferred venue, coordinate travel arrangements for guests, and allow for any legal or documentation requirements in your destination country.

Can I legally get married in another country?

Yes, but the legal requirements vary by country. Some require a residency period, others need specific documents translated and authenticated. Many couples choose to have a legal ceremony at home and a symbolic ceremony abroad to simplify the process.

Do I need a wedding planner for a destination wedding?

All-inclusive resorts include the services of an on-site wedding coordinator as part of their wedding packages. These experienced professionals help take care of the details, from ceremony setup to vendor coordination, making planning much easier, even from afar. So while you may not need to hire a separate wedding planner, you’ll still have expert support every step of the way!