3 Common Objections to Destination Weddings. And How to Handle Them.
“Destination weddings are selfish.” As a destination bride or groom-to-be, you have probably heard this and other objections to your idea of having a destination wedding. The logistics are too complex. The costs are too high. The destination is too far. Not everyone can attend.
While good planning can solve many of these issues, the claim that destination weddings are selfish is the hardest to hear. After all, it goes against the grain of everything you want your wedding to be. Quality time with your loved ones. An unforgettable experience for everyone. A day with filled love, laughter, and happiness.
Let’s take a look at three common objections to the idea of a destination wedding and how to handle them.
Objection 1: A Destination Wedding Is Too Expensive
Let’s debunk the cost myth first: a destination wedding is not more expensive than a local wedding.
The reality is that many couples choose to have a destination wedding to save costs or stretch their budget further.
The US is known to be the priciest country in the world for weddings. Popular domestic wedding venues in metropolitan areas, such as New York, and San Francisco, or Seattle charge tens of thousands of dollars in rental fees.
Europe, on the other hand, offers great value for money. Its wedding venues, such as French chateaus or Italian villas, can often be privatized for a fraction of the cost you would spend on a venue in the US.
“With how weddings are in the New York area, the wedding venues were just way past the price point we can afford. Once we looked in Europe, it was just a better option for us from a price point standpoint.” Unveiled Podcast
In addition, a destination wedding gives you the opportunity to combine wedding and honeymoon into one.
“If I did the wedding at home (with my budget) I wouldn’t be able to afford the honeymoon . The money I am saving with the destination wedding AND already being there gives me a honeymoon to enjoy. PLUS I get to spend a few days with each of my closest friends and family instead of talking to them for a few minutes then leaving to go on the honeymoon.” Reddit
A similar objection to destination weddings is that they are too difficult to plan. The logistics are too complex. But let’s be honest. Planning a wedding, any wedding is complex! Logistical challenges can be managed effectively with thorough planning and organization. Other strategies to ensure a seamless wedding are:
1. Hiring a Local Wedding Planner
For large-scale weddings, having a wedding planner is a must. Having a professional contact person with local expertise and network ensures everything runs smoothly on your big day.
Expert Tip: Shortlist wedding venues first and then identify wedding planners who specifically work with these venues. Wedding planners can often negotiate additional discounts for wedding venues, but only if they have an existing relationship with the venue.
2. Providing Detailed Information Early
Help your guests as much as you can through FAQs and frequent communication. For example, create a wedding website with all the necessary information, including travel tips, accommodation options, and a schedule of events. Encourage your family and friends to book flights early to make their trip more affordable.
In addition, speak to other destination wedding brides who celebrated their wedding in your country or venue of choice. You can easily find them on Instagram or on Facebook groups. The destination wedding community is incredibly supportive and a great resource to tap into for your wedding.
3. Offering Travel Assistance
Last, consider helping with travel arrangements or organizing group transportation to make logistics seamless for your guests. Shortlist hotels near the venue and try to negotiate group rates with hotels and airlines. Hire a company to provide transportation between hotels and the venue or encourage guests to rent a car.
These are just some of the strategies you can take to make your destination wedding a stress-free experience for you, and an enjoyable experience for your guests.
Objection 2: Your Guests Will Feel Pressured to Attend
Not every one of your guests will like the idea of a destination wedding. Some might think a wedding in an exotic destination is just vanity. Others will feel pressured to attend and look at their invitation as if it was a summons, rather than just an invitation.
“A destination wedding may mean people feel pressured to attend and spend their money and holiday time/annual leave to go somewhere they might not choose to go.” – Reddit
Admittedly, it is a big ask of your family and friends to travel internationally for your wedding. Here are some strategies to deal with this objection.
1. Hosting a Local Celebration For Those Who Can’t Attend
Plan an engagement party or post-wedding reception at home for those who couldn’t make it to the destination. This way those who are important to you still get an opportunity to congratulate you.
2. Live Stream the Ceremony
Give those who can’t attend the chance to “be there”. Use technology to include those who can’t travel. Live streaming the ceremony on YouTube, for example, allows everyone to share in the moment.
3. Send Personalized Invites and Speak to Your Guests
Most importantly, explain your reasons for choosing a destination wedding in personal notes to those who might be unable to attend. Express your understanding and hopes for celebrating with them in other ways. Tell them that there are by no means expected to attend.
“I had a friend with a destination wedding recently and they privately reached out invitees saying that there was no pressure and they completely understood if it wasn’t feasible. I actually really appreciated that communication.” – Reddit
Making your guests understand that the choice to attend is entirely theirs removes the social obligation of having to attend.
The flipside of this is that as the bride or groom-to-be, you have accept that some of those you want to attend might not make it due to distance, time or financial constraints. Destination weddings typically have a smaller guest list and fewer attendees than traditional weddings.
Objection 3: A Destination Wedding Is Selfish
Let’s come back to the “destination weddings are selfish” objection. Is it really selfish to have a destination wedding?
By all means, no. Destination weddings are not selfish. On the contrary, they offer a unique opportunity to spend more quality time with your loved ones.
One of the best things about a destination wedding is spending several days with family and friends. A destination wedding is like a short vacation together.
One of the best things about a destination wedding is spending 3-4-5 days with family and friends, instead of 3-4 rushed hours. It is quality time that your group will share and appreciate.– Reddit
Additionally, destination weddings often create a more intimate and relaxed atmosphere. The extended time together allows for deeper connections, shared experiences, and the creation of lasting memories.
Whether it’s exploring the local area, enjoying group activities, or simply relaxing together, the focus shifts from a single day to a meaningful, extended celebration.
Moreover, having a destination wedding can be a thoughtful decision for your guests. Many couples choose beautiful, desirable locations that double as vacation spots, giving their loved ones an excuse to take a break and enjoy a holiday.
It can be a welcome escape from daily routines and an opportunity to experience new places and cultures.
In addition, this is your wedding. You are free to decide how to spend one of the most significant days of your life.
As long as you and your partner are in this together, you have the right to choose, plan, and organize the wedding of your dreams. Your wedding should reflect your personalities, preferences, and the unique story of your relationship.
Lastly, most destination wedding couples do not have a registry. Instead of gifts, they often prefer the presence of their guests, valuing the shared experiences and memories over material items.
This can alleviate the financial burden on guests, as they are not expected to contribute beyond their travel expenses. By focusing on the experience rather than material gifts, you emphasize the importance of togetherness and celebration.
Conclusion
Destination weddings offer unforgettable experiences and beautiful memories.
By addressing logistical concerns, managing costs, and finding ways to include everyone, you can make your destination wedding a joyous occasion for all involved. Communication with your guests is key to making a destination wedding a success.
Explain your reasons why you want to have a destination wedding to those who have doubts. State there is no expectation to attend and that a (smaller) local event will be celebrated with those who miss out on the destination wedding.
Remember, your wedding is a celebration of love, and with thoughtful planning, it can be an event that everyone cherishes, no matter where it takes place.