10 Things to Know When Planning a Wedding Abroad
- thalliiak
- Sep 14, 2025
- 4 min read
There is something magical about saying I do somewhere far from home. Whether it is a barefoot ceremony on a Thai beach, a villa in Tuscany surrounded by vineyards, or a romantic French château, a wedding abroad blends travel, adventure and celebration in one. But while the dream is enchanting, the logistics can feel daunting if you are planning from afar.
Here are 10 things to know before you start planning your wedding abroad.
1. Understand the Legalities
Each country has its own marriage requirements, from documentation and translations to residency periods. Some locations require couples to arrive days or even weeks before the wedding to complete paperwork. Others may require documents to be notarised or translated into the local language. Because of this, many couples choose to do the legal paperwork at home first and then hold a symbolic ceremony abroad. It keeps the day stress-free and allows you to focus on the celebration itself.
2. Choose the Destination That Fits You
The destination sets the tone for everything, so think carefully about what feels true to your story. Do you want a tropical beach, a historic city, or a countryside retreat? Consider more than just how the place looks in photos. Accessibility for guests, local culture, seasonal climate, and the type of experience you want to create should all play a role in your decision. A location that feels aligned with you both will create a wedding day that feels natural and effortless.
3. Timing Matters
Seasons affect destination weddings in big ways. High season often brings great weather and lively energy but also comes with higher costs and more tourists. Shoulder or off-seasons can be just as beautiful, with quieter surroundings, more venue availability, and often softer, more romantic light. Research the best time of year for your chosen destination and be prepared to work with the elements. A wedding planner who knows the local rhythm of the seasons can help you choose the perfect date.
4. Visit if Possible
If you are able, a trip to your chosen destination before the wedding can make all the difference. Meeting your planner, walking the venue, and tasting the food brings peace of mind and helps bring your vision into focus. If a visit is not possible, rely on the expertise of a local planner who can provide detailed updates, photos, and recommendations. They can be your eyes and ears on the ground, making sure nothing is overlooked.
5. Budget Beyond the Wedding
Destination weddings often come with hidden or unexpected costs. In addition to the venue, catering, and décor, consider flights, accommodation, transfers, insurance, and any pre- or post-wedding gatherings. Many couples host welcome dinners or farewell brunches, which can be a lovely addition but should be accounted for early in the budget. Planning with a clear financial picture helps avoid last-minute stress.
6. Work With Local Experts
One of the best decisions you can make is to work closely with local professionals. Florists, caterers, and entertainers know the area, the produce, and the traditions. Their expertise helps you avoid pitfalls and ensures your wedding feels authentic to the destination. Most importantly, a local wedding planner can bring everything together. They know the most reliable vendors, can negotiate in the local language, and have contingency plans ready should anything change. With a trusted planner, you gain not just logistical support but also insider knowledge that turns a good wedding into an extraordinary one.
7. Give Guests Plenty of Notice
Traveling abroad requires time to plan, so give your guests as much notice as possible. Save-the-dates sent well in advance allow friends and family to book flights, accommodation, and time off work. Consider setting up a wedding website with all the practical details, from maps to hotel recommendations. Making it easy for your guests will help them feel excited and prepared for the adventure.
8. Let the Destination Shine
Part of the beauty of getting married abroad is immersing yourselves in the place itself. Incorporating local elements, whether it is food, music, flowers, or cultural rituals, makes your day unique and memorable. Think tropical fruits and seafood in Thailand, live jazz in Paris, or local wines in Italy. These details not only make your wedding more personal but also honour the setting in which you are celebrating.
9. Prepare for the Elements
Nature often plays a leading role in destination weddings. Tropical beaches can bring sudden showers, mountain retreats might get chilly in the evenings, and Mediterranean summers can be hot under the midday sun. Always have a plan B. Whether it is a covered terrace, a shaded pergola, or an indoor backup space, preparing for all possibilities ensures nothing interrupts the joy of the day.
10. Trust Your Team
Planning a wedding abroad can feel overwhelming, but the right team transforms it into an enjoyable journey. A local planner will coordinate the logistics, troubleshoot any issues, and allow you to stay present and excited rather than stressed. Trusting the professionals you choose means you can relax, knowing every detail is in safe hands.
A Celebration Beyond Borders
A destination wedding is more than just a single day. It is a journey shared with loved ones, a chance to embrace a new setting, and an experience to treasure for a lifetime. With thoughtful planning and the right support, your wedding abroad will be as stress-free as it is unforgettable.
✨ If Thailand is on your list, Weddings on Samui would love to help bring your dream destination wedding to life.
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