Traveling is a huge passion of mine. The fact that I get to incorporate this passion into my work makes it even better! Thankfully, over the years I have had the opportunity to document so many beautiful love stories. From all across the U.S. to even parts of Europe, I’ve gotten to witness that love is a universal language. Destination weddings are all the rage right now, however, it’s essential to weigh the pros and cons before making your final decision. First, you need to know what is a destination wedding before deciding whether or not you should have one. Luckily, as a Philadelphia wedding photographer, I’ve covered this for you.

What Is A Destination Wedding?

If I’m being frank, there are probably many different definitions of what is a destination wedding. However, in my eyes, a destination wedding is a wedding that takes place anywhere but where you currently live. So whether you want to fly off to Paris or drive to the next state over, technically both of those are destination weddings.

What Does A Destination Wedding Cost?

When it comes to cost, this again can be very different depending on two factors. One, how far you’re wanting to travel, and two, your wedding budget.

Wedding Budget

Firstly, you’re going to need to determine your wedding budget. Your budget will play a major role in how much you are willing to spend on your destination wedding. When deciding on your wedding budget, you will need to keep in mind how many guests you are planning to have attend your wedding. Will these guests have to drive far distances or fly to get to your wedding? You also need to make sure you are prioritizing which vendors you are wanting to have at your wedding. Your wedding vendors may charge travel fees which will also impact where you are allocating your wedding budget money.

Wedding Location

Secondly, you’re going to need to know where you are planning on having your wedding. This alone can determine heavily how much a destination wedding will cost. Things that you must consider are the cost of your wedding venue, lodging, food, and travel. Depending on where you choose to have your wedding, this may severely impact your decision on how much a destination wedding costs.

Pros Of Having A Destination Wedding

When it comes to whether or not you should have a destination wedding, it is entirely based on you. However, here are a few pros that many couples see when they choose to have a destination wedding.

You’re Going To Have Some Stunning Photos

If you value your wedding photography, which I hope you do, then you can almost guarantee some stunning photos at your destination wedding. Depending on where you choose to go, you are able to have some absolutely beautiful views and backdrops. Whether it be in a French chateau or in a valley with ocean views behind you, these gorgeous locations will definitely give you a wedding day you will never forget.

You’re Able To Be Selective With Your Guest List

Another reason many couples love having destination weddings is that you can be much more selective with your guest list. A hard truth about having a destination wedding is that not everyone will be able to make it. That is to be expected, especially if you’re planning somewhere very far away. What this means, is that you can invite guests who are of the utmost importance to you rather than “who you think you should invite”. You are able to avoid any awkward and weird conversations with distant relatives and celebrate with only your closest friends and family.

Can Be Cost Effective

Destination weddings can sometimes be more cost-effective than traditional weddings at times. Now, keep in mind that this is entirely dependent on where you choose to have your destination wedding and the cost in that area. Make sure to crunch these numbers ahead of time and that they are well within your wedding budget before making plans for your wedding.

Wedding + Vacation In One

Lastly, having a destination wedding basically means that you get to have a wedding and vacation in one. We love bundle deals here! Choosing a wedding location that doubles as a vacation spot can make for a very fun, exciting, and unique wedding experience. Whether you’re having your family and friends join in for a weekend celebration getaway or a solo vacay just for you and your partner, it works! You can even use your wedding venue as the perfect excuse to double it as your honeymoon spot. No more worrying about traveling right after the wedding day. Just kick back, relax, and soak up the fact that you just got married!

Cons of Having A Destination Wedding

Although destination weddings are my absolute fave, it’s only fair to talk about some of the cons of having a destination wedding.

Planning Can Be A Bit More Complicated

When deciding to have a destination wedding, planning can end up being a bit more complicated. Whether it’s the next town, state, or country over, you have to decide whether or not you’re willing to put in the work to plan your destination wedding. This can mean seeing the rules you have to follow at your specific venue and getting certified to get married in that town/country. There is a lot of planning that is needed in order to make everything come together nicely.

Some People May Not Be Able To Attend

In the same way that having a limited guest list is a pro, it can equally be a con. Some guests may not be able to swing a lot of travel in between their work/life schedules. In turn, this may mean that some of your favorite people might not be able to make it to your wedding day which can be a real bummer. Keep this in mind when you’re determining whether or not a destination wedding is right for you.

What Is A Destination Wedding And Should You Have One?

All in all, deciding whether or not to have a destination wedding will ultimately be up to you and your partner and nobody else. Destination weddings boast many benefits, but of course like anything else it comes with their cons. Most importantly remember that it is your day and you celebrate it how you want to.

If you’re in the need of a photographer for your dream destination wedding, I’m your girl! Click here to inquire and let’s chat about wedding plans!