Ocean views. Golden sunsets. A once-in-a-lifetime adventure with your favorite people.

If you’re dreaming of a wedding with ocean waves as your soundtrack and a passport in your pocket—welcome to the magic of a destination wedding.

But before you book that dreamy villa in Santorini or that tucked-away beach in Tulum, there are a few must-knows that’ll save your sanity and make the whole experience unforgettable (in the good way).

I’ve photographed weddings in Cabo, Italy, Belize—and about a dozen dreamy places in between. So let’s get into the real talk about planning your destination wedding right.

1. Choose Your Location Wisely

(It’s About More Than Pretty Views!)

Yes, those Pinterest-worthy cliffs in Greece are stunning. But can Grandma get there without a 3-hour donkey ride?

Here’s what to consider beyond the aesthetic:

• ✈️ Travel logistics – Are there direct flights? What’s the airport situation?
• 🌦 Seasonal weather – Is it hurricane season or monsoon week?
• 📄 Legal requirements – Some countries require a residency period before a legal wedding. Looking at you, France.

Britt Tip: Not ready for international logistics? Try a “semi-destination” like Napa Valley, Charleston, or Sedona—destination feel without the passport drama.

2. Visit the Venue (If You Can!)

I get it—pre-wedding travel isn’t always in the budget. But if there’s any way to see your venue in person before booking, do it.

If not? Here’s how to fake it smart:

• Ask for a virtual tour with the venue or planner
• Request real wedding galleries from the space—not just the Insta feed
• Review hidden fees like exclusive vendor policies or surprise service charges

Britt Tip: Can’t visit? Hire a local planner who knows the venue inside and out—they’ll catch details you’d miss.

3. Book Vendors Who Know Destination Weddings

Not all vendors are built for the chaos beauty of destination weddings. You want pros who know how to roll with customs delays, wild weather, and language barriers.

Here’s your must-have dream team:

• Photographer (👋 hi, it’s me!) – Someone who knows how to scout light, navigate unpredictable terrain, and capture the experience, not just the ceremony.
• Planner – A local planner is your MVP. They know the culture, the vendors, and how to fix things fast.
• Hair & Makeup – Humidity in Mexico is not the same as dry air in Italy. Either fly in your glam squad or do a trial with a trusted local artist.

Britt Tip: Book travel early for any out-of-town vendors (like your photographer, wink wink) and build in buffer days. Delays = not the vibe.

4. Think About Your Guests’ Experience

A destination wedding isn’t a day—it’s an experience. And while yes, it’s your big moment, making it smooth for your guests = less stress for you.

• Save-the-dates should go out 9–12 months in advance
• Offer hotel options in different price ranges
• Plan a few group events—a welcome dinner, beach day, or local tour helps people connect

Britt Tip: Create a wedding website with all the details so your phone doesn’t explode with “what time is the shuttle again?” texts.

5. Pack Smart & Prepare for Surprises

This isn’t just another trip—it’s your wedding. So pack like a pro and plan for the unexpected.

• Carry your dress on the plane. Do not check it. I repeat: DO. NOT. CHECK. IT.
• Prep for weather. Rain plans, wind plans, heat plans—have ’em all.
• Arrive early. Give yourself 3–4 days before the big day to settle in and shake off travel stress.

Britt Tip: Bring a wedding emergency kit—double-sided tape, steamer, extra lashes, blotting powder, sewing kit. Trust me.

Final Thoughts: Make It Fun. Make It You.

Destination weddings are an adventure—and like all good adventures, there will be surprises.

The key? Trust your people, roll with the chaos, and soak up the moments that matter.

And if you need a photographer who knows how to capture it all (from your teary first look to the boat ride into golden hour)? I got you.

💌 Let’s Chat About Your Dream Destination Wedding

Photos. Stories. Adventure. Let’s bring it all to life.

Contact Me ➝