What No One Tells You About Planning a Destination Wedding (That Makes All the Difference)
Let’s be real..
Planning a destination wedding sounds like a dream, but it can quickly feel like a nightmare!
Even dream weddings come with a few surprises. And if you’ve ever found yourself wondering, “Why does this feel harder than it should?” well, you’re not alone.
Here’s what no one tells you about planning a destination wedding (but definitely should).
1. You’re Planning a Wedding and a Group Trip
It’s easy to get swept up in florals and venues, but one of the biggest (and sneakiest) challenges is that you're also planning a vacation for a bunch of your closest people, all with different needs, travel styles, and questions. This is also what brides feel so much pressure over!
Not only do you want to find a great resort that everyone will enjoy and no one will complain about, but think fielding group chats, managing RSVPs, and handling travel logistics... unless you have help.
The fix: Work with a destination wedding specialist (who’s been in your shoes!) to handle your guest list so you can stay focused on your wedding, not everyone’s travel plans.
2. Free Packages Aren’t Always Exactly Free
You’ve probably seen the “Free Wedding Package” promise. And yes, some resorts do offer them, but they usually come with restrictions. Most are for 10 guests max, the decor is super minimal, and you have to “earn” the free wedding with minimum booking requirements like a 7-night stay in one of the most expensive room categories.
**The fix:** Know what’s included, and what’s not. Sometimes choosing a paid package (that actually fits your vision) ends up saving you more than trying to DIY all the upgrades. That’s why our Destination Wedding Specialists know the packages, their inclusions, and their costs.
3. Not Every Resort is Actually Wedding-Friendly
Just because a resort *offers* weddings doesn’t mean they specialize in them. Some are chaotic behind the scenes, or lack private ceremony spaces, or charge extra for every little thing. And others may take weeks to respond to a simple email.
The fix: Pick a resort with a strong wedding team, good reviews from real couples, and package options that feel clear and customizable. Barefoot Bridal’s Destination Wedding Specialists have worked with so many resorts for multiple weddings at each, that we know just what their wedding departments are really like.
4. You’ll Need to Let Go of a Little Control
You may not get to see your bouquet in person ahead of time. You might not know exactly what the officiant will say. You might even need to trust the weather (gasp, I know!).
The fix: Focus on the overall experience and know that everything works itself out in the end, really! Know your non-negotiables and let the rest be part of the magic.
5. It Will Be Even More Meaningful Than You Expect
No one talks enough about how powerful it is to spend several days celebrating with your favorite people in paradise. This isn’t just a wedding, it’s memories that unfold over meals, pool days, beach chats, and starry-night dancing.
The fix: Be present. Soak it in. It goes by fast, but your memories, photos, and video will last forever.
Final Thoughts
Yes, destination wedding planning has its quirks. But it also has *so* many perks — and with the right support, it can be simple, beautiful, and totally worth it.
You don’t have to do it alone — and you shouldn’t.
Thinking about a destination wedding?
Schedule a FREE call with one of our destination wedding specialists, all past destination wedding brides who walked in your shoes, ready to help you take the next steps.
