On planning a destination wedding

First off, my apologies for not posting stuff for some time. I gave birth towards the end of June and had to take care of the baby while enjoying the maternity leave.

Many thanks for those who continue to stop by. Will be writing more, promise. :D

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My cousin just celebrated her big day here in the Philippines. She and her now hubby are based in the US but decided to hold the wedding in Bohol, the province where both their parents were born, as a salute to their heritage. Theirs was a church wedding followed by a sand ceremony and dinner reception by the beach.

During their planning, I noticed some things that I thought I'd share when you're opting for a destination wedding. I hope these tips may be of help, however few.

1. Get a wedding planner/coordinator. For couples planning a beach or destination wedding, I think this is a must especially when the place you'd want to get married is far away from where you are presently staying. It also helps if the wedding planner you're targeting is based where you want to hold your big day or knows it very well. At least he or she could give you the pros and cons of holding your wedding there, and know rules and conditions of the venue where the wedding will take place.

2. Hire suppliers which are based on the place you'll get married. My cousin hired a photographer, an event stylist, and hair and make-up artist, aside from the wedding coordinator, which are based here in the Philippines. Of course you can also choose suppliers from your place, but be ready for additional costs for their transportation.

3. If you have a friend or relative living or visiting your desired venue, ask them if they could do an ocular inspection for you. You can also do it yourself, but if you feel like you wouldn't have the time because you're in the middle of the preps, do so. It will help you save time and money, plus you'll get valuable inputs from people you really trust.

4. Have a contingency plan. Most destination weddings are held outdoors, but what if the weather turns bad? It will be helpful if the venue provides an alternative, and if your planner coordinates with them for a Plan B. Just in case.

5. Provide accommodation for your important guests. Most of them may be coming from your place, too, so better look for somewhere to stay for a night or two. You don't need to give every guest accommodation, maybe just family and friends included in the entourage. For your other guests, you can give them options, but make it clear to them who's going to shoulder the cost.

These are just a few helpful tips for those planning a destination wedding. And as I'd always say, research is very crucial in every wedding. Just keep these things in mind so you can create your own beautiful wedding.

Photo credit: Altar caribe by cop1t4 from sxc.hu.