8 Tips For Planning a Destination Wedding

There’s no doubt that planning a destination wedding is both exhilarating and terrifying. There are a lot of details to iron out and plenty of things to consider to ensure your day goes perfectly.

To help you out, we’ve created a list of tips to help you with your process and to ensure that your wedding is everything you dreamed of and more!

Consider the Weather

When picking a destination, don’t forget to consider the local seasons. While many destination wedding locations are in a constant season of summer, hurricane and rainy seasons exist! Perhaps you’re a risky bride and are willing to take the chance…. But, if you prefer playing it safe, we suggest planning your big day during the dryer months.

• Costa Rica Tip: December-May are ideal months!

Choose Your Attire Wisely

There are a lot of factors to consider when picking the perfect dress and bridal party attire. If you’re getting married outside in the heat, you’ll want dresses that breathe easy and keep you cool. Also consider factors like terrain and ease of transportation. You may not want to choose bridesmaid’s dresses that are difficult to pack, or a wedding dress with a long train if you’re going to be walking in the sand.

• Costa Rica Tip: Try to carry-on any of your irreplaceable garments or accessories in case your baggage doesn’t make it!

Consider Your Guests

When planning a destination wedding, be sure to send your Save-The-Dates far in advance to give your guests ample time to plan and budget for your special get-a-way! Also consider guest budgets and try to find a reasonably priced resort/hotel, arrange group airfare rates, and book transportation from the airport to the resort for your guests.

• Costa Rica Tip: Our knowledgeable staff at Tulemar will help you arrange the best accommodations inside Tulemar, as well as transportation for your guests!

Understand Local Marriage Requirements

If you plan to have your destination wedding in a foreign country, there may be a few requirements you must meet first, including time of residence in the country, blood tests, age, and parental consent. If you are coming from the United States, The U.S Department of State website is a great place to start your research on these requirements: Visit the site here.

• Costa Rica Tip: It’s not difficult to marry in Costa Rica if you are not from here! You just need to ensure your passport if valid for at least six months, and you’ll need to meet with a local attorney and notary to complete some paperwork.

Know Passport & Visa Requirements

Most countries require your passport to be valid 3-6 months after departure for you to enter the country, and some countries require a visa in order for you to enter. We suggest checking whether or not you will need a visa for your destination country. Also ensure that your passport is valid. Same goes for your sweetheart, your families, and your bridal party! The last thing you want is someone you love getting left behind.

Research Local Culture and Cuisine

Throwing a destination wedding provides ample opportunities to make your day unique and fun! Trying to decide on a main dish for dinner? Stumped on what your signature cocktail should be? Lost on what song will accompany your first dance? Research your destination for local dishes, cocktails, music, décor, and wedding traditions! This will help you add some unique cultural twists to your ceremony and reception that wouldn’t quite make sense in a traditional setting.

• Costa Rica Tip: Gallo pinto (rice & beans), meat, plantains, and guaro sours are all great food & beverage options!

Plan Activities

The beauty of a destination wedding is that your wedding extends far beyond just your ceremony and reception! Your guests traveled a long way to celebrate you, so repay them by researching local activities and planning a few group outings for them to participate in if they’d like.

• Costa Rica Tip: In Manuel Antonio, there are several beaches to visit, and tons of awesome adventure activities! Speak with your Tulemar concierge to create a list of activity options for your guests so they never feel like they aren’t sure what to do!

Budget for Unexpected Surprises

Just as with any wedding, there is likely to be unexpected last-minute surprises… And being far from home where things are familiar gives you less options for a creative quick fix! While we hope your big day is seamless, it’s nice to have a little budget for last minute emergencies in case it is needed in a pinch. If not, you’ll have a little extra fun-mon for after the big day!

We hope this gives you a few important things consider when starting your party planning. A huge congratulations from the Tulemar team on your engagement!

Pura Vida,

Tulemar