Destination Wedding Planning Timeline: What Couples Need to Know

Planning a wedding is no small feat, and when you add travel into the mix, the timeline becomes even more critical. A destination wedding requires more coordination, communication, and time for your guests to prepare. But don’t stress, with the proper roadmap, everything becomes manageable.

As an award-winning travel advisor and Brides magazine contributor, I frequently guide couples through this process. Here’s a step-by-step destination wedding planning timeline to help you stay organized and stress-free.

18–24 Months Before the Wedding

• Choose your destination and resort. Locking this in early gives you access to the best venues and dates before they fill up.
• Secure your group room block. Reserving early ensures your guests get the best rates and availability.
• Hire your travel advisor. Having an expert (like me!) on your side from the beginning helps you avoid costly mistakes and keeps everything on track.

9–12 Months Before the Wedding

• Send Save-the-Dates. Guests need extra time to request vacation days and budget for the trip.
• Book key vendors. Think photography, videography, or special entertainment.
• Plan your wedding website. Include travel info, FAQs, and booking details.
• Encourage guests to book. This is when most guests will start committing.

6–9 Months Before the Wedding

• Plan group activities. Excursions, welcome dinners, or cocktail parties should be arranged early.
• Choose attire. Keep in mind climate and destination-friendly styles.

3–6 Months Before the Wedding

• Finalize details with vendors. Confirm menus, flowers, and décor.
• Book flights. Both you and your guests should aim to secure flights during this window.
• Check passports. Remind guests to ensure theirs are valid at least six months beyond travel dates.

1–3 Months Before the Wedding

• Send final reminders to guests. Include packing tips and travel requirements.
• Review contracts and confirmations. Double-check rooming lists, ceremony times, and vendor agreements.
• Schedule final planning calls. Make sure every detail is locked in.

The Week Of the Wedding

• Arrive early. Couples should plan to get to the destination at least 3–5 days before guests to handle last-minute details.
• Welcome your guests. Kick things off with a welcome party or casual get-together.
• Relax and enjoy! Your planning pays off, so by this point, it’s time to soak up the celebration.

Why a Timeline Matters

A clear timeline ensures less stress, smoother communication, and happier guests. It also allows you to enjoy the planning process instead of scrambling at the last minute.

Let’s Make It Happen

Your destination wedding deserves expert guidance and flawless execution. As an award-winning travel advisor and Brides magazine expert contributor, I help couples design a stress-free planning journey from day one.

Ready to create your timeline and start planning your dream wedding? Let’s connect today.