We all know that budgeting for a wedding can be a challenge, when you add the destination element, things can get even more confusing. We have a few things for you to keep in mind so you can avoid the potential of your first big disagreement as an engaged couple.
Consider all angles
The first thing to know about budgeting for a destination wedding is that there are two entirely different budgets to consider:
- Your wedding budget
- Your guest’s travel budget
Communicate and be realistic
Talk about the budget early and honestly. This is the first chance you and your partner may have to come to an honest and logical budget for your financial situation. Don’t forget, this also may include having honest, sometimes difficult, conversations with your parents if they plan to contribute. Decide on a budget, share that with your Concierge and stick to it.
Etiquette tip: Since your guests plan to commit to traveling for several days to celebrate your marriage, it is best to indicate on your invitation that gifts are not required.
Consider the timeframe
Before you start planning, recognize that timing is key. If you plan to have a destination wedding over a holiday, plan to pay top dollar for rooms and airfare. If you are on a tight budget, ask your Concierge when the least busy season is in your destination and make sure you book early to gain the best deals. As for your guests, the earlier the save-the-date goes out, the better. They may need time to save for this trip, so let them know it is coming well in advance.
Think about inclusions
In some instances, a destination wedding can actually save you money. An all-inclusive resort is a great way to ensure meals, drinks and activities outside the wedding festivities are included throughout the trip for you and your guests.
Etiquette tip: Gift bags are a nice way to welcome your guests. Your Concierge can work with the hotel to have gift bags place in your guests’ rooms before arrival to the resort.
Save money with packages
When considering a wedding package versus a la carte options, always start with a wedding package, which bundles together the basics for your wedding day. It is the best way to lock in the essentials at a base rate. From there, your Concierge can help you add on personalized elements like live or recorded music, a photographer and videographer, and additional décor and floral arrangements that will make your big day unique.
Etiquette tip: Your guests are taking a long trek to see your new life begin; a nice way to thank them is to pay for an excursion like a catamaran cruise or their transfers to and from the airport.
Rely on an expert
Weddings by Funjet Concierges are experts in all things weddings—including sticking to a budget. Your Concierge will have recommendations and ideas for bringing your dreams to life while not creating a nightmare out of the budget. And of course, our Concierges will take care of all your guests’ needs, as well.
To get started, you can use tools like the Budget Calculator from The Knot. By entering the total amount you want to spend, the tool will break down recommendations on what to spend on each component. Use this as a starting point and go from there.
If you want to know more tips about each component of your destination wedding check out our blog post on the elements of destination weddings.
