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When you picture your destination wedding, you’re probably imagining a lot more than just the ceremony. It’s your favorite people, all in one – very beautiful – place. It’s sunset toasts by the ocean, spontaneous dance parties under the stars, and lazy beach days leading up to the big moment. It’s a celebration and a getaway rolled into one, and when done right, it’s something they’ll talk about for years. But creating that kind of unforgettable destination wedding guest experience takes planning.
Unlike a traditional wedding, where guests show up for a single day, a destination wedding means they’re investing time, effort, and money to celebrate with you. The best way to show appreciation is by making sure they feel relaxed, included, and taken care of. From picking a guest-friendly location to striking the right balance between events and downtime, these essential dos and don’ts will help you create a wedding that’s as incredible for your guests as it is for you.
DO: Choose a Guest-Friendly Location
Not all destinations are created equal when it comes to travel logistics. Choosing a guest-friendly location means considering factors like accessibility, travel time, and ease of entry requirements. It also means more of your guests are likely to be able to attend, especially if they find long-haul travel challenging. It’s one of the (many!) reasons the Caribbean is always a great destination wedding choice!
DON’T: Leave Guests in the Dark
Your guests shouldn’t have to piece together travel plans on their own. Keep them informed with a wedding website that includes important details like the itinerary, hotel information, travel tips, visa requirements, and local attractions. Providing this information early allows guests to plan with confidence and reduce stress before the big day. It’s also important to keep that information flowing once you arrive at the resort, so consider setting up a group chat or app that keeps everyone updated.
DO: Set the Tone with Your Invitations
Your wedding invitation is a first glimpse into the destination wedding guest experience you’re creating. Whether you go for tropical elegance, beachside chic, or vibrant island colors, your invitations should reflect the destination.
With travel involved, save-the-dates should go out at least 9-12 months in advance of a destination wedding, to give guests lots of time to plan. If you send them too late, some guests may struggle to secure flights, accommodations, or time off work. The earlier you provide details, the better.
DO: Book a Resort with All-Inclusive Perks
Choosing an all-inclusive resort is one of the easiest ways to elevate your guests’ experience while being mindful of their budget. With accommodation, food, drinks, and entertainment all included, they won’t have to worry about unexpected expenses or logistical hassles. Sandals Resorts offers a no-worries, all-inclusive experience, where your guests can enjoy fine restaurants, top-shelf liquors, and a wide variety of activities on-site, without having to reach for their wallets. Just sit back and enjoy the good vibes!
DON’T: Forget to Include a Dress Code
Tropical settings often call for light, breathable fabrics, but it’s always a good idea to be clear about the dress code. Specify whether the wedding (and any other events) will be formal, semi-formal, or beach-chic so they pack accordingly. Also, remind them to bring essentials like sunscreen, sunglasses, and comfortable footwear.
DO: Make Guests Feel Welcome with Special Touches
The moment guests arrive, they should feel appreciated and excited for the celebration ahead. One thoughtful way to do this is to arrange airport transportation to simplify their arrival. (Roundtrip airport transfers are included with every Sandals Resorts vacation!) You could also consider greeting them with a welcome bag filled with local treats, itinerary details, and wedding weekend essentials. Small touches like these mean a lot and set the right tone for the time ahead.
DON’T: Treat Every Guest the Same
Your guest list may include different personalities, ages, and requirements, so a one-size-fits-all approach won’t work. Make sure you take the time to gather information about your guests’ needs. Personalizing their experience – whether through hand-written welcome notes, accessible room preferences, or meal options – ensures everyone feels seen and valued.
DO: Plan Group Activities to Elevate the Experience
A destination wedding is a great opportunity for two families and sets of friends to bond and create lasting memories together. Plan a mix of activities, like a catamaran cruise or snorkeling trip, that bring everyone together while showcasing the beauty of the location.
DON’T: Overbook Guests with Too Many Events
While group activities are fun, your guests also need downtime. Avoid cramming the itinerary with back-to-back events. Make some activities optional, so guests can explore on their own or relax on their balcony or by one of the pools. Balance is key! Let your guests enjoy the destination wedding guest experience at their own pace.
DO: Have a Backup Plan for Rain
The Caribbean offers breathtaking outdoor wedding settings, but the weather can be unpredictable. A smart couple plans for the unexpected, which means choosing a resort with covered venues, tent options, or an indoor backup space. Your Sandals Resorts wedding planner will work with you to arrange a Plan B, ensuring your big day runs smoothly, rain or shine.
DON’T: Skimp on Food and Drink
Your guests have traveled far to celebrate with you, so the dining and drinks should be a highlight. Whether it’s a beachfront buffet, formal plated dinner, or island-inspired cocktail hour, invest in a menu that incorporates the destination’s flavors. The best part? At Sandals Resorts, meals and drinks are included, making the dining experience a hassle-free highlight of the event.
DO: Put Guest Comfort First
Destination weddings often mean outdoor ceremonies and receptions in warm temperatures. Consider guest comfort by providing handheld fans, hydration stations, shaded areas, or cooling wipes to ensure everyone stays comfortable. Provide comfortable sandals for tired dancing feet. Have bug spray and other essentials on hand. A little thoughtfulness goes a long way in making the experience enjoyable.
DON’T: Forget to Say Thank You
Your guests have committed time, travel, and expenses to be there for your special day. Don’t let that go unnoticed! Make sure you spend time with each of them and let them know how much you appreciate their presence. A personalized favor or a small token of appreciation is a simple yet meaningful way to express gratitude. Make sure they leave feeling valued and cherished.
Turn Heads (for All the Right Reasons) with Your Wedding Guest Experience
When planned thoughtfully, a destination wedding is a once-in-a-lifetime getaway where loved ones can relax, celebrate, and create lasting memories together. From selecting the right location to ensuring guest comfort and appreciation, these dos and don’ts will help create a stress-free, unforgettable experience for everyone.
Ready to start planning your dream destination wedding? Let Sandals' expert wedding team take care of every detail, so you and your guests can relax and enjoy the magic of the Caribbean. Visit our wedding inquiry page to start planning today!
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