Create Your Dream Beach Wedding Without the Stress
Destination weddings have become increasingly popular, offering couples the chance to combine their wedding celebration with a vacation experience in a stunning location. Whether you’re dreaming of a barefoot beach ceremony, a villa wedding overlooking the ocean, or an intimate celebration in a tropical paradise, destination weddings create unforgettable memories while often costing less than traditional hometown weddings.
This comprehensive guide walks you through every step of planning a destination wedding—from choosing the perfect location to managing logistics, budgets, and guest expectations.
Why Choose a Destination Wedding?
Intimate Celebrations
Destination weddings naturally keep guest lists smaller. Only your closest friends and family will travel to celebrate with you, creating a more intimate, meaningful event than traditional large weddings.
Extended Celebration
Rather than a single 6-hour event, destination weddings become multi-day celebrations. Welcome dinners, beach activities, group excursions, and farewell brunches allow quality time with loved ones you rarely see.
Unique Venues
Exchange vows on white sand beaches, in historic villas, overlooking vineyards, or in exotic gardens—venues impossible to replicate at home.
Built-In Honeymoon
Many couples extend their stay after guests depart, transitioning seamlessly from wedding to honeymoon without additional travel.
Cost Savings
Surprisingly, destination weddings often cost less than traditional weddings. Smaller guest counts, all-inclusive packages, and simplified décor (nature provides the beauty) reduce expenses significantly.
Adventure and Travel
Combine your wedding with exploring new destinations, cultures, and experiences—memories that extend beyond the ceremony itself.
Less Family Drama
Distance creates natural boundaries. Well-meaning relatives can’t micromanage when planning happens remotely, and destination logistics discourage unwanted guests from attending.
Choosing Your Destination Wedding Location
Key Factors to Consider
Travel Accessibility: How easy is it for guests to reach? Direct flights? Visa requirements? Travel time?
Weather and Season: Research climate patterns. Avoid hurricane seasons, monsoons, or extreme heat/cold periods.
Legal Requirements: Marriage license procedures vary dramatically by location. Some countries make legal ceremonies complicated.
Budget: Both yours and your guests’. Choose destinations matching your guests’ financial capabilities.
Guest Count: Some venues work for 20 people, others for 100. Know your approximate guest count before selecting venues.
Activities for Guests: What will guests do besides the wedding? Beach, culture, adventure, relaxation?
Your Vision: Beach? Mountains? Villa? Resort? Urban? Let your dream guide the destination.
Top Destination Wedding Locations
Caribbean Islands (Jamaica, Turks and Caicos, Bahamas)
- Pros: Easy US travel, all-inclusive resorts, beautiful beaches, established wedding infrastructure
- Cons: Hurricane season, can feel generic, popular means crowded
- Best For: Traditional resort weddings, larger guest counts, convenience
Mexico (Riviera Maya, Cabo, Puerto Vallarta)
- Pros: Affordable, short travel from US, all-inclusive options, beautiful venues, great food
- Cons: Some areas very touristy, safety concerns in certain regions
- Best For: Budget-conscious couples, beach lovers, foodies
Hawaii
- Pros: US location (no passports), stunning natural beauty, diverse islands, romantic
- Cons: Expensive, long travel for East Coast guests, time zone challenges
- Best For: Multi-generational families, nature lovers, couples wanting US security
Italy (Tuscany, Amalfi Coast, Lake Como)
- Pros: Incredible scenery, amazing food and wine, romantic, historic venues
- Cons: Expensive, complex legal requirements, language barriers
- Best For: Foodies, wine lovers, elegant celebrations, smaller intimate weddings
Greece (Santorini, Mykonos, Crete)
- Pros: Stunning views, Mediterranean climate, beautiful architecture, romantic
- Cons: Expensive in peak season, limited capacity on islands, wind can be challenging
- Best For: Small intimate weddings, dramatic photography, wine lovers
Costa Rica
- Pros: Adventure activities, eco-friendly options, beautiful beaches and rainforests, relatively affordable
- Cons: Rainy season significant, some areas difficult to access
- Best For: Adventurous couples, eco-conscious celebrations, active guests
Thailand (Phuket, Koh Samui)
- Pros: Exotic, affordable luxury, beautiful beaches, amazing food, spa culture
- Cons: Very long travel for Western guests, hot and humid, legal marriage complicated
- Best For: Couples seeking exotic destination, wellness-focused celebrations, smaller budgets wanting luxury
Kenya (Diani Beach, Lamu)
- Pros: Unique African setting, pristine beaches, can combine with safari, incredible hospitality, affordable luxury
- Cons: Longer travel time, less established wedding infrastructure, modest dress expectations
- Best For: Adventurous couples, safari lovers, intimate celebrations, unique experiences
Portugal (Algarve, Lisbon)
- Pros: Affordable European option, beautiful coastline, great food and wine, excellent weather
- Cons: Less known means fewer all-inclusive packages, language barriers outside tourist areas
- Best For: Budget-conscious couples wanting Europe, wine lovers, intimate celebrations
Destination Wedding Timeline
12-18 Months Before
Choose Your Destination: Research and visit potential locations if possible
Set Your Budget: Determine what you can afford and communicate expectations to guests
Create Guest List: Estimate who will attend (typically 40-60% of invited guests)
Book Your Venue: Popular destinations and dates book far in advance
Hire Wedding Planner: Local planners or venue coordinators who know the destination
Send Save-the-Dates: Give guests maximum notice for travel planning
Research Legal Requirements: Understand marriage license procedures for your destination
Book Accommodations: Reserve room blocks or villa for your group
9-12 Months Before
Book Travel: Flights and accommodations for you and immediate family
Select Vendors: Photographer, videographer, florist, musicians (often through venue)
Plan Your Dress: Consider climate, venue style, and travel requirements
Register: Create registries or honeymoon fund information
Plan Welcome Event: Dinner or gathering when guests arrive
Research Activities: Group excursions and things for guests to do
Send Formal Invitations: Include all travel information and accommodation options
Wedding Website: Create site with all details, travel tips, and FAQs
6-9 Months Before
Finalize Guest Count: Track RSVPs and adjust plans accordingly
Confirm Vendor Details: Review contracts, timing, and expectations
Plan Rehearsal Dinner: Or welcome gathering for arriving guests
Order Attire: Ensure time for alterations and fit
Marriage License: Complete any required paperwork or blood tests
Book Hair/Makeup: If not included in venue package
Plan Day-After Brunch: Farewell gathering before guests depart
Assign Responsibilities: Designate point people for various tasks
3-6 Months Before
Finalize Menu: Confirm catering, dietary restrictions, and beverage packages
Create Timeline: Detailed schedule for wedding day events
Confirm Travel Arrangements: Verify all bookings for you and immediate family
Write Vows: If doing personalized vows
Plan Décor: Centerpieces, aisle decorations, signage (keep simple in destination weddings)
Create Music Playlist: For ceremony, cocktails, reception
Wedding Favors: Small gifts for guests (consider local items from destination)
Finalize Photography Shot List: Must-have photos and family groupings
1-3 Months Before
Confirm All Vendors: Reconfirm dates, times, and details
Create Seating Chart: If doing assigned seating
Print Programs/Menus: Or create digital versions
Break In Shoes: Wear wedding shoes around house
Final Dress Fitting: Ensure everything fits perfectly
Prepare Toasts: If giving speeches
Pack Wedding Items: Dress, suit, accessories, rings, décor items
Prepare Tip Envelopes: Cash for vendors and staff
1-2 Weeks Before
Confirm Guest Count: Final numbers to caterer
Prepare Welcome Bags: Local treats and information for guest rooms
Confirm Transportation: Airport transfers for guests if providing
Manicure/Pedicure: Day or two before wedding
Relax and Enjoy: Trust your planning and be present
Destination Wedding Budget Breakdown
Destination weddings typically cost $15,000-$40,000 depending on location, guest count, and choices. Here’s how costs break down:
Sample Budget for 40-Person Destination Wedding: $25,000
Venue and Catering: $8,000-12,000 (40%)
- Venue rental or villa
- Food and beverage for guests
- Tables, chairs, basic setup
Accommodations: $3,000-5,000 (15%)
- Your room for wedding week
- Sometimes includes immediate family
Photography/Videography: $3,000-5,000 (15%)
- Professional photography
- Some videography
- Travel costs for photographer if bringing from home
Attire: $2,000-3,000 (10%)
- Wedding dress
- Suit/tux
- Accessories, alterations
Travel: $2,000-4,000 (10%)
- Flights for couple
- Sometimes includes parents
Flowers and Décor: $1,500-2,500 (7%)
- Bouquet and boutonnieres
- Ceremony arrangements
- Reception centerpieces
Planning and Coordination: $1,000-2,000 (5%)
- Wedding planner fees
- Coordinator services
Music/Entertainment: $800-1,500 (4%)
- DJ or musicians
- Sound system rental
Invitations and Paper: $500-800 (2%)
- Save-the-dates
- Invitations
- Programs, menus
Miscellaneous: $1,000-2,000 (5%)
- Marriage license
- Welcome bags
- Tips for staff
- Unexpected expenses
Optional Add-Ons:
- Rehearsal dinner: $1,000-2,500
- Day-after brunch: $500-1,000
- Guest transportation: $500-1,500
- Additional events: $1,000-3,000
Ways to Save on Destination Weddings
Choose Off-Peak Season: Save 30-50% by avoiding peak wedding season and holidays
Weekday Weddings: Many venues offer discounts for Monday-Thursday weddings
All-Inclusive Packages: Resorts often provide better value than piecing together vendors
Smaller Guest List: The biggest savings comes from fewer guests
Limit Open Bar: Offer wine and beer rather than full bar, or drink tickets
Simple Décor: Let natural beauty of location shine rather than elaborate decorations
Digital Invitations: Save on printing and postage with beautiful digital options
Local Vendors: Use destination vendors rather than bringing your own (saves travel costs)
Seasonal Flowers: Choose blooms in season at your destination for significant savings
Brunch or Lunch Reception: Typically cost less than evening receptions
DIY Elements: Welcome bags, favors, programs you can create yourself
Skip Videography: If budget is tight, prioritize photography over video
Buffet Style: Often less expensive than plated service
Guest Considerations for Destination Weddings
Setting Expectations
Early Communication: Announce destination as soon as possible so guests can plan
Be Understanding: Not everyone can afford or take time off to travel—don’t take it personally
Provide Information: Create detailed website with travel tips, accommodation options, packing suggestions
Accommodation Options: Offer range of price points from budget to luxury
Group Rates: Negotiate discounts for your guests when possible
Don’t Expect Gifts: Travel is their gift—make this clear on your website
Plan Free Time: Don’t over-schedule guests—allow time for relaxation and exploration
Communicate Costs: Be transparent about what you’re covering vs. guest expenses
What Couples Typically Cover
Varies Widely: No set rules—depends on budget and expectations
Common Coverage:
- Welcome dinner or cocktails
- Wedding day food and beverage
- Some activities or group excursions
- Transportation from hotel to venue
- Welcome bags
Guests Typically Cover:
- Travel to destination
- Accommodations
- Most meals outside wedding events
- Activities and excursions
- Rehearsal dinner attendance (if not hosted by parents)
Guest Itinerary Ideas
Day 1 – Arrival:
- Guest arrival and check-in
- Welcome bags in rooms
- Evening welcome cocktails or casual dinner
Day 2 – Pre-Wedding:
- Free day for guests to explore
- Optional group activity (boat trip, cultural tour)
- Rehearsal dinner for wedding party and family
Day 3 – Wedding Day:
- Morning: guests at leisure
- Afternoon: wedding ceremony
- Evening: reception
- Late night: after-party or beach bonfire
Day 4 – Post-Wedding:
- Farewell brunch
- Guest departures or extended stays
Legal Requirements by Destination
Marriage laws vary significantly by location. Here’s what to expect:
Easy Legal Marriages
USA (including Hawaii): Simple requirements, licenses typically same-day
Mexico: Relatively straightforward with proper documents
Caribbean Islands: Most islands have simple processes for tourists
Requirements Usually Include:
- Valid passports
- Birth certificates
- Divorce or death certificates (if applicable)
- Blood tests (some locations)
- Witnesses
- Waiting periods (0-3 days typically)
Complicated Legal Marriages
Italy: Complex requirements, long waiting periods, extensive paperwork
France: Residency requirements make it nearly impossible for tourists
Greece: Time-consuming documentation process
Many European Countries: Complicated for non-residents
Alternative Approach: Many couples do legal ceremony at home, symbolic ceremony at destination
Symbolic Ceremonies
No Legal Standing: Beautiful ceremony without legal marriage component
Advantages:
- Avoid complex foreign legal requirements
- More flexibility in ceremony content and officiant
- Can marry legally at home at any time
- Often less expensive
Disadvantages:
- Not legally married (must do legal ceremony separately)
- Some guests may not understand symbolic nature
Working with Destination Wedding Vendors
Finding Vendors
Venue Recommendations: Most venues have preferred vendor lists
Local Wedding Planners: Essential for navigating destination logistics
Online Research: Wedding websites, Instagram, destination forums
Reviews: Read multiple reviews, especially regarding destination weddings
Video Calls: Interview vendors virtually before committing
Contracts: Ensure detailed contracts protecting both parties
Questions to Ask Vendors
Photographers:
- Experience with destination weddings?
- Travel fees included or additional?
- Digital files included?
- Turnaround time?
- Backup equipment and plan?
Planners:
- Knowledge of specific destination?
- How many weddings managed there?
- What’s included in planning fee?
- Communication frequency?
- Local vendor relationships?
Venues:
- All-inclusive or à la carte?
- Weather backup plans?
- Capacity limits?
- Provided items vs. rentals needed?
- Vendor restrictions?
- Setup and breakdown included?
Caterers:
- Accommodation of dietary restrictions?
- Tasting availability?
- Bar package options?
- Serving staff included?
- Backup plans for equipment failures?
Planning Wedding Attire for Destination Weddings
Bride’s Attire
Consider Climate: Lightweight fabrics (chiffon, organza, linen) for hot destinations
Consider Terrain: Long trains difficult on sand or grass; consider shorter or removable trains
Travel-Friendly: Fabrics that don’t wrinkle easily or can be steamed on arrival
Backup Plan: Bring second dress for reception if ceremony dress too formal
Accessories: Keep simple—elaborate veils and heavy jewelry impractical in wind and heat
Hair and Makeup: Account for humidity—updos often more practical than down styles
Shoes: Comfortable! Consider sandals, wedges (for grass/sand), or barefoot beach weddings
Packing: Carry-on your dress if possible; never check it in luggage
Groom’s Attire
Linen Suits: Perfect for tropical weddings—breathable and stylish
Light Colors: Khaki, tan, light gray work better than black in heat
Casual Options: Depending on formality, even nice pants and guayabera shirts work
Footwear: Loafers without socks, boat shoes, or even barefoot for beach
Accessories: Keep minimal—ties often too formal for beach destinations
Wedding Party Attire
Comfort Priority: Choose breathable fabrics and comfortable styles
Mix-and-Match: Consider allowing bridesmaids to choose dresses within color palette
Local Style: Incorporate destination elements (flower crowns, local textiles)
Rental Options: If destination has rental options, saves guests from traveling with formal wear
Destination Wedding Photography Tips
Hire Experienced Destination Photographer: Worth the investment for someone who knows lighting, timing, and location
Scout Locations: If possible, visit location beforehand or work with planner who knows best spots
Golden Hour: Schedule ceremony or portraits during golden hour (hour before sunset) for best light
Backup Plans: Have indoor/covered locations identified for rain
Detail Shots: Bring special details for photographer to capture (rings, invitations, shoes, etc.)
First Look: Consider first look to maximize photography time
Timeline Buffer: Build extra time into schedule for photographs
Guest Shots: Assign someone to photograph guests enjoying destination
Trash the Dress: Destination weddings perfect for dramatic day-after photo shoots
Villa Weddings vs. Resort Weddings
Villa Wedding Advantages
Complete Privacy: Entire property exclusively yours
Personalization: More freedom in vendors, timing, setup
Home Feel: Intimate, comfortable atmosphere
Extended Use: Often can use property for multiple days
Cost-Effective: For smaller weddings, can be less expensive than resorts
Accommodation Included: House your closest family and friends
Kitchen Access: Flexibility for welcome dinners, morning-after brunches
Photo Opportunities: Unique, personal backdrop for photographs
Villa Wedding Considerations
More Planning Required: Less turnkey than all-inclusive resorts
Vendor Sourcing: Must find and coordinate all vendors yourself (or hire planner)
Logistics: Arrange rentals, setup, breakdown
Guest Accommodations: Need to find lodging for guests not staying in villa
Catering: Kitchen may require professional caterer or private chef
Weather Backup: Ensure adequate indoor or covered space
Destination Wedding at Elegant Kaya, Diani Beach
Elegant Kaya offers the perfect setting for intimate destination beach weddings that combine luxury, privacy, and African coastal beauty.
Why Choose Elegant Kaya for Your Wedding
Stunning Beach Location: Direct access to Diani’s pristine white sand beaches—ceremony on the sand, reception in tropical gardens
Private Villa Setting: Exclusive use of entire property for you and your closest loved ones
All-Inclusive Packages: We handle all details so you can relax and enjoy
Accommodation Included: House wedding party and family right on property
Experienced Team: Mary and team have experience coordinating intimate beach celebrations
Beautiful Natural Setting: Minimal décor needed—natural beauty speaks for itself
Flexible and Personal: Customize every detail to match your vision
Local Connections: Access to vetted vendors, caterers, musicians, and services
Wedding Packages at Elegant Kaya
Intimate Ceremony Package (Up to 20 guests)
- Exclusive villa use for 3 days
- Beachfront ceremony setup
- Reception dinner for 20
- Accommodation for 10 guests
- Coordinator services
- Basic floral arrangements
- Welcome dinner
- Day-after brunch
Extended Celebration (Up to 30 guests)
- Exclusive villa use for 5 days
- Everything in Intimate Package plus:
- Additional guest accommodations nearby
- Rehearsal dinner
- Group excursion (snorkeling or cultural tour)
- Enhanced décor and flowers
- Professional photography coordination
Custom Celebrations: Work with us to create your perfect wedding experience
Add-On Services
Professional Photography: Local photographer packages starting at $2,000
Wine Reception: Curated wine tasting with passed hors d’oeuvres
Private Chef: Multi-course gourmet dinner with wine pairings
Spa Services: Pre-wedding massages and beauty treatments
Cultural Experiences: Traditional Swahili dancers, drummers, or musicians
Excursions: Safari day trip, Kisite Marine Park snorkeling, dolphin watching
Decor Enhancements: Upgraded floral, lighting, and styling
Videography: Capture your celebration on film
Airport Transfers: Comfortable transportation for all guests
Ceremony Locations
Beach Ceremony: Exchange vows with your toes in the sand, ocean as backdrop
Garden Ceremony: Tropical garden setting with ocean views
Poolside Ceremony: Modern, elegant setting by the villa pool
Sunset Ceremony: Time ceremony for spectacular Indian Ocean sunset
Reception Options
Beachfront Dinner: Long table on the beach under string lights
Garden Reception: Multiple tables in tropical gardens with lanterns
Intimate Dining Room: Indoor option for smaller groups or weather backup
Pool Deck Celebration: Modern, sophisticated setting by the pool
Sample 3-Day Wedding Timeline at Elegant Kaya
Day 1 – Friday
- Guest arrival and villa check-in
- Welcome cocktails and light dinner
- Beach bonfire
Day 2 – Saturday (Wedding Day)
- Morning: breakfast, relaxation, preparation
- Afternoon: hair and makeup
- Late afternoon: ceremony on beach (golden hour)
- Evening: cocktail hour and reception dinner
- Night: dancing, celebration, stargazing
Day 3 – Sunday
- Farewell brunch
- Pool time and beach relaxation
- Guest departures or extended stays
Legal Marriage in Kenya
Requirements:
- Valid passports
- 21-day notice period (plan accordingly)
- Two witnesses
- Birth certificates
- Affidavit of single status
Alternative: Many couples do symbolic ceremony at Elegant Kaya, legal ceremony at home
We Can Help: Coordinate with local officials if you choose legal ceremony in Kenya
What’s Included
- Exclusive villa use
- Accommodation for up to 10 guests (additional nearby accommodations can be arranged)
- Daily housekeeping
- Welcome dinner
- Wedding day breakfast
- Cocktail hour service
- Reception dinner
- Day-after brunch
- Basic ceremony setup (chairs, aisle runner)
- Coordination assistance
- Local vendor connections
Investment
Intimate wedding packages at Elegant Kaya start at $12,000 for 20 guests, offering exceptional value compared to resort weddings or destination wedding packages elsewhere.
Contact us for detailed pricing based on your specific dates, guest count, and desired services.
Conclusion: Your Dream Destination Wedding Awaits
Destination weddings offer the unique opportunity to marry the love of your life in a stunning location while creating lasting memories with your closest friends and family. While planning requires more coordination than hometown weddings, the intimate celebration, beautiful setting, and multi-day experience make it worthwhile.
Whether you choose a beach in Kenya, a villa in Tuscany, or a resort in Mexico, your destination wedding will be uniquely yours—a reflection of your love story set against an unforgettable backdrop.
The key is starting early, communicating clearly with guests, hiring reliable local help, and remembering what truly matters: celebrating your commitment surrounded by love in a beautiful place.
Ready to Plan Your Elegant Kaya Beach Wedding?
Contact Elegant Kaya today to discuss your vision, available dates, and custom wedding packages. Let us help you create an intimate, unforgettable beach wedding celebration in paradise.
Diani Beach awaits with white sand, turquoise waters, African sunsets, and warm hospitality—the perfect setting for your destination wedding.
Download our Wedding Planning Guide: Contact us for our comprehensive destination wedding planning checklist and timeline.
