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Dear Readers:

This week, I’m in France at one of our exquisite destination wedding locations and I wanted to share some helpful tips to take into consideration when planning a destination wedding. As planners, we should ask the questions that will allow us to provide our clients with the most accurate information about the region and what it has to offer. It’s our responsibility to match their desired vision with destination locations that will allow them to host a magnificent wedding in the most convenient and logical location.

Location

Choose a location that is not only aligned with their vision but is easily accessible by their guests. Understanding flight patterns and availability to and from the area is a must. You should always take into consideration the amount of time and money that your guests will need to invest to get to the wedding destination before making your final decision.

Laws and Culture

Understand what the marriage laws are in the area; what is acceptable and what is not. It’s also important to understand the cultural differences and to provide the information that will allow your clients and their guests to honor them during their stay.

Be Respectful of Guests

Make sure to plan ahead with ample time. It’s important that you educate your clients of the proper timing for disseminating information to their guests. You want to be able to provide them with a timeline that will allow them to plan accordingly and to make the proper arrangements without feeling pressed for time or forced to purchase flight reservations that do not provide costs savings. Guests need to be able to plan on what their best options are for attending the wedding.

Activities

If possible, choose a location that has plenty of activities to offer within very close proximity. Avoid locations that are not close to main attractions and important cities. Be mindful of your guests and remember the further away they are from these attractions, the more difficult it will be for them to visit. You want happy guests who won’t resent you later.

Creative Partners

Choose creative partners carefully and do not rush this process. Take the time to find the vendors that will be able to execute their vision properly. It’s crucial that you select reputable creative partners that care deeply about providing high quality products and services for your clients. Perhaps one of the most important things to remember during your selection process is communication. Always keep in mind the language barriers and plan accordingly.

With happy thoughts,

Kathy

Kathy Romero is the Director of Wedding Planning For Preston Bailey Designs. She shares her thoughts and advice on Preston’s Blog every Thursday.

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