20 May 6 Best LGBTA Destination Wedding Planning Tips
Planning an LGBTA destination wedding may seem simple. You just go to the beach and get married, right? But planning a destination wedding with 50 or so of your closest family and friends can go from super-easy to “what the heck did I get myself into?” really quickly! So how do you manage such a big event? No worries, 6 of our best LGBTA destination wedding planning tips are below.
1. Wedding guest etiquette
First, keep in mind that a destination wedding guest is deserving of the same courtesies extended to traditional wedding guests. If you’re going to ask them to travel halfway around the world to attend your wedding, then try to make it as stress-free for your guests as possible. Please don’t suggest that your guests just jump online and book their own travel. I’ve seen wedding guests who were left to fend for themselves not only wind up at the wrong hotel but in the wrong country because the bride didn’t think it was necessary to hire someone to handle the travel for her guests. If you think your guests couldn’t possibly mix up San Jose, Puerto Rico with the San Jose Del Cabo airport, for example, think again!
2. Friends and money don’t mix
As the saying goes, friends and money are two things that never mix! This rule applies to destination weddings as well. Having a destination wedding expert handle the arrangements will allow you to skip that awkward conversation with a family member or friend about paying for their flights or hotel rooms.
3. Plan some fun
Next, plan something fun for your guests to do together. Ask your coordinator to put together a private beach bbq or pool party just for your guests. This will create quality time together, and allow you an opportunity to let your guests know how much you appreciate their efforts!
4. Schedule relaxation
Schedule some time for your guests to have some private time. Chances are they haven’t had a vacation in some time, and this will allow them to not only enjoy your wedding, but away their time away from home as well.
5. Resort buyouts – the ultimate experience
There are a lot of great boutique hotels with just a handful of rooms that offer buyouts, where you basically have the entire resort to yourself for your event. Consider a resort buyout or a resort that offers something like The Private Enclave at Karisma. Villa rentals are also a great option, and there are some surprisingly affordable private islands that would love to host your event as well.
6. Know where to go…and where NOT to go
Mexico, Aruba, Costa Rica, and Greece are awesome, gay-friendly, destination wedding options. Unfortunately, many islands in the Caribbean are still not LGBTA friendly. We can help you determine the best destinations for your event.
A destination wedding can be a great way for your guests to have a fantastic get-away, and a wonderful time at your wedding. With a little planning and a little help, your destination wedding can be the romantic, relaxing escape you envisioned.
Ready to find your perfect beach resort wedding package? Plan your perfect honeymoon, destination wedding, vow renewal, or other romantic adventure? Let our romance travel pros help! Contact us today for your free consultation.
“Laura and Bliss Travel opened doors for us that we didn’t even know existed as options for our honeymoon. Laura is incredibly detail oriented and a great listener. With just a one hour initial interview, Laura provided us with travel options around the world that fit our budget.” Blissfully Happy Travelers
