Ultimate Guide to Planning a Destination Wedding in 2022

Planning a destination wedding in 2022? Then you’ve come to the right place! There are many wonderful reasons to opt for a wedding in a faraway destination, but they do have some challenges at the best of times. Throw in two years of COVID cancellations and shutdowns and that’s an understatement! And yet, as travel restrictions have started to ease, hope is on the horizon. Even taking into account a few unexpected obstacles and false starts in 2021, we fully expect to see destination weddings making a comeback in 2022. People are hungry for the things they have missed like travel and celebration – and what better place to find both than at a destination wedding!

Whether you’re newly engaged or have been planning a destination wedding in 2022 for a while, now is the time to get on track. Here are a few of my top tips!

Don’t wait to start planning

As weddings have opened up again, you may have noticed local venues and vendors have started to book up fast. That’s also true if you’re planning a destination wedding in 2022. Destination weddings that have been postponed are being rescheduled, while some local weddings are being shifted to destination ones. It’s a situation that will be with us for a while. So when you find a venue you love or a vendor whose work resonates with you, don’t hesitate to book.

Hire a destination wedding planner

Whether you’re planning your destination wedding in Ireland or somewhere else, the whole process will be that much smoother if you have an expert heading up your team. A good local wedding planner will know all the best vendors and can make recommendations based on first-hand experience. They’ll also be up-to-date on any local COVID or travel restrictions and can help you make a Plan B if anything changes.

Do your research and keep guests in the loop

Even if you hire a great destination wedding planner, it’s always a good idea to do your research on local restrictions (as well as rules and regulations for getting married there). And don’t keep all that learning to yourself! Keeping your guests in the loop is an essential part of successful destination wedding planning. For example, you could set up a wedding website with updated info on arrival dates, accommodation, and activities, as well as COVID safety procedures and policies. It’s also important to create a communication plan just in case anything major changes.

Read the small print

Before you sign on the dotted line, it’s important to thoroughly review any contracts, terms and conditions, and insurance policies. Especially those relating to COVID! Make sure you understand exactly what is due when, and what the procedure is in case of any postponements. If you have any questions, don’t be shy about speaking up!

Plan for unexpected costs

A wedding emergency fund is always a good idea, but especially so for a 2022 wedding. There are the usual hidden costs like vendor tips, airport transfers, shipping and oversize baggage costs, etc. But there are also specific costs arising from the pandemic. For example, food and beverage costs (which are likely to rise), or décor which may have had supply chain issues.

Are you planning a destination wedding in 2022?

Slán go Fóill,

Tara

Images by Kieran Harnett, Lisa O’Dwyer, Aspect Photography