How to Make it Easier for Destination Wedding Guests to Say Yes
- Give LOTS of Notice! I recommend booking your destination wedding anywhere from 8-18 months in advance (the sooner the better really!). Send Save the Dates as soon as you Save the Date. Over 18 months tends to be a bit too long to keep the excitement going, but if you think your guests will need that much time to save, we can sometimes book even three years in advance!
- Make sure your Save the Dates give enough information on how to book and are designed to get your guests excited for their trip!
- Have a Wedding Website you can send your guests too. I create this for all the wedding couples that I work with as it really is a great way to share information and create excitement for the wedding! Of course wedding couples are always free to also create their own.
- Choose an All Inclusive Resort. Guests will appreciate knowing exactly how much to budget for well in advance. You may have some guests on your guest list who have never left the country before so this option gives them a stronger feeling of security. It usually makes it cheaper for the wedding couple too.
- Book a Destination That is a Direct Flight (or one stop at the most) Away. I know Bali Weddings are BEAUTIFUL but not everyone will be willing to take the 30 hour airplane trip.
- Choose a Kid-Friendly Destination (that’s not too kid-friendly). I know, I know. There are endless factors that come into play when choosing a destination for everyone. Some guests won’t leave their kids for a week though so to make it easier on them to say yes, choose somewhere there kids will be excited to go too! On the other hand, more and more resorts are offering an “adults only” section for those who prefer a vacation away from the kids.
- Use a Travel Agent that Will Let Your Guests pay monthly. Trust me, it makes a big difference.
- Thank your guests GENEROUSLY for considering making the trip for the happiest day of your life. Invest in welcome bags and thank you cards for everyone who attends. You might want to add an additional event or excursion as your way of thanking them for making the trip.
