Why More Couples Are Choosing Destination Weddings (And Why You Might Too)

Valrie
14 hours ago
3 min read

You’ve said yes to forever. Now comes the exciting (and sometimes overwhelming) question: where?

Pic of a woman showing off her engagement ring

If you’ve been dreaming of a wedding that feels more like an experience than a one-night event, a destination “I do” might be exactly what you’re looking for. More couples are stepping away from traditional hometown venues and choosing celebrations that feel personal, immersive, and memorable for everyone involved.

And no, destination weddings aren’t limited to beachfront vows in Cancún (though that’s never a bad choice). From Tuscan vineyards and Parisian courtyards to mountain lodges and desert resorts, couples are taking their celebrations global.

A wedding abroad often comes with built-in perks, professional coordination, and a setting that transforms your big day into a shared experience rather than a single evening that flies by.

Here’s why so many couples are choosing to say “I do” somewhere else.

The Appeal of Swapping Vows Abroad

Comparable (or Even Lower) Costs

Despite common myths, destination weddings can match or even undercut the cost of a traditional hometown wedding. Many resorts and venues offer packages that bundle the ceremony space, décor, food, and coordination into one streamlined option.

Instead of juggling dozens of vendor contracts, couples often enjoy a simpler planning process with clearer pricing and fewer surprise expenses.

A More Manageable Guest Count

Inviting everyone is optional. Smaller guest lists tend to happen naturally with destination weddings, which helps keep the celebration relaxed, intimate, and meaningful.

Fewer guests also means reduced catering and entertainment costs, allowing couples to focus their budget on the experience rather than the headcount.

Wedding and Honeymoon, Seamlessly Combined

One of the biggest perks? You can go straight from wedding mode into honeymoon mode.

Staying put saves time, eliminates extra flights, and removes the stress of planning two separate trips. And for couples who want a little extra adventure, extending the celebration with a second destination after the wedding is always an option.

Built-In Perks and Extras

Many resorts reward destination wedding bookings with valuable extras. Depending on the property and guest count, these can include complimentary nights, spa credits, room upgrades, or even free ceremonies.

These perks can add real value and elevate the overall experience without increasing your budget.

An Extended Celebration (Not Just One Night)

Why limit your wedding to a single evening?

Destination weddings often unfold over several days and naturally include welcome dinners, pool parties, excursions, farewell brunches, and plenty of relaxed time with your favorite people. The result feels less rushed and far more intentional.

And if all of that still isn’t convincing, there’s also the appeal of stress-free planning. Many properties offer on-site wedding planners and vetted vendor lists, while your travel advisor handles guest travel logistics. That means fewer spreadsheets and more time focusing on what actually matters.

A Thoughtful Way to Begin Your Marriage

Every love story is unique, and your wedding location should reflect that. Choosing a destination wedding allows you to skip “cookie cutter” expectations and start your marriage somewhere that genuinely feels like you.

Most couples begin planning destination weddings 12 to 18 months in advance, especially when coordinating travel, securing preferred dates, and giving guests time to plan. If 2027 feels far away, it’s actually ideal timing to start the conversation now.

Already married or not planning a wedding yourself? This is the perfect post to pass along to someone who’s knee-deep in venue spreadsheets and could use a little inspiration - and maybe a travel advisor in their corner.