How Much Should a Destination Wedding Cost?
Planning a destination wedding can feel exciting but a bit confusing at times, especially when you’re trying to figure out the costs. If you’re dreaming of getting married in a beautiful place in another country, this guide will help you understand how much a destination wedding might cost and what to think about when planning one.
What is a Destination Wedding?
A destination wedding is when you, your partner, and guests travel to a different country or special place to get married.
It could be a beach, a mountain, you name it.
It’s different from a regular wedding because it’s held in a location that’s not your hometown.
What Makes Up the Destination Wedding Cost?
Here’s a simple list of the biggest costs:
Travel and Accommodation
You and your guests will need to get to the wedding location.
This usually means paying for flights, trains, or cars, plus hotels or other places to stay.
Venue
Where will the wedding take place?
Some couples like to get married on a beach, in a garden, or in a fancy hotel.
The price depends on how fancy the place is and where it’s located.
Food and Drink
Your guests will need something to eat and drink at the wedding.
You might have a fancy dinner or something simple, but food is always a big part of the destination wedding cost.
Wedding Planner
Since planning a wedding far away can be har, some couples hire a wedding planner.
They can help organise everything and make sure it all runs smoothly.
Photographer
Having photos to remember your special day is important.
A professional wedding photographer is part of the destination wedding cost, and they can capture the important moments.
Extra Activities
Many couples plan extra events like welcome dinners or sightseeing tours for their guests.
These fun activities can add to the destination wedding cost.
How Much Should You Expect to Spend?
The cost of a destination wedding can vary a lot.
It depends on where you’re going, how many people are coming, and what kind of wedding you want.
On average, couples spend between £5,000 to £30,000.
Some smaller weddings might cost less and luxury weddings can cost much more.
Here’s a breakdown of what to expect:
Flights and Hotels: £1,500 - £10,000
Venue and Decorations: £1,000 - £10,000
Food and Drink: £500 - £5,000
Photographer: £1,000 - £5,000
Wedding Planner: £500 - £3,000
These are just estimates, and depending on your choices, your destination wedding cost could be higher or lower.
How Can You Save Money?
Weddings can be expensive, but there are ways to save on the cost:
Choose Off-Season
If you get married when fewer people are traveling, things like flight and hotels might be cheaper. And we actually offer discounted prices on our wedding photography packages between 1st Nov - 28th Feb.
Keep it Small
Fewer guests mean fewer flights, meals, and a smaller venue.
DIY Decorations
If you enjoy a bit of DIY, you can save money by making your own wedding decorations.
Local Photographer
Some couples fly their photographer with them, but hiring a photographer who lives near the wedding location can save money on their travel costs.
Is a Destination Wedding Worth It?
A destination wedding can cost more than a wedding at home (90% of the time), but it’s also a once-in-a-lifetime experience.
You get to combine your wedding with a vacation, and your guests will have an unforgettable time too.
The destination wedding cost might be higher, but many couples feel the memories are priceless.
FAQs
What is the average cost of a destination wedding?
The average cost of a destination wedding varies widely but typically ranges from £5,000 to £30,000, depending on the location, guest count, and vendor choices.
How much does a destination wedding photographer cost?
Destination wedding photographers can charge between £1,000 and £5,000, depending on their experience, travel costs, and package details.
What factors affect destination wedding costs?
Destination wedding cost factors include the location, travel expenses, accommodation, guest count, vendor fees, and whether the wedding is in a peak tourist season.
How can I reduce the cost of a destination wedding?
You can reduce costs by choosing a less popular destination, travelling during the off-season, booking in advance, and limiting the guest list.
What is included in a destination wedding package?
Most destination wedding packages include the venue, catering, accommodations, decor, and sometimes photography, but it’s important to clarify with the venue what is covered.
