Why We Chose a Destination Wedding Over a Traditional Wedding by Barefoot Bride: Mikaela Rivera

When my fiancé and I began discussing our wedding, the thought of a traditional hometown wedding in Miami initially crossed our minds. However, as we weighed our options, it became clear that a destination wedding was the perfect choice for us. Here’s why we chose to say “I do” far from home, and why I believe more couples should consider it too.

It Felt More Personal

One of the biggest reasons we chose a destination wedding was because it felt more personal and intimate. A traditional wedding typically lasts six to eight hours – a whirlwind of vows, photos, dinner, and dancing – and then it’s over. With a destination wedding, you get to spend an entire weekend (or more) with your closest friends and family. The extra time allows everyone to bond, creating lasting memories beyond just the wedding day.

For us, it wasn’t just about the ceremony or reception; it was about creating a full experience for our guests. From welcome parties and group excursions to poolside brunches and farewell dinners, a destination wedding allows us to celebrate in a way that felt truly meaningful. It’s not just a one-night event – it’s a weekend-long celebration of love and connection.

More Bang for Your Buck

While it’s a common misconception that destination weddings are always cheaper, the truth is they can offer more value for your money. In a city like Miami, where everything from venues to catering can cost a fortune, a traditional wedding would have required us to spend a lot of bucks just to cover the basics. In contrast, our destination wedding allowed us to stretch our budget further.

We were able to upgrade many aspects of our wedding – like the alcohol options, food, and décor, because the costs weren’t as high as they would have been at home. We also had the flexibility to add personal touches that made the wedding uniquely ours. From customized welcome bags to private excursions for our guests, we are able to give our loved ones an unforgettable experience without breaking the bank.

A Naturally Smaller Guest List

One of the realities of a destination wedding is that not everyone will be able to attend. At first, this might sound like a downside, but for us, it was actually a blessing in disguise. A smaller guest list meant that we will be surrounded by people who genuinely want to be there to celebrate with us. Let’s be honest: when you plan a traditional wedding, you often end up inviting people out of obligation – distant relatives, coworkers, or acquaintances you haven’t seen in years. A destination wedding naturally trims down the guest list to those who are truly important in your life. It creates a more intimate atmosphere, where every guest plays a meaningful role in your celebration.

The Downsides to Consider

Of course, planning a destination wedding isn’t without its challenges. One of the hardest parts is coming to terms with the fact that some people won’t be able to attend. Whether it’s due to work commitments, financial constraints, or a fear of flying, not everyone will be able to make the trip. It can be disappointing when certain people decline the invitation, especially if you had hoped to have them there. However, you have to be okay with the possibility that some loved ones may not be able to join you. It’s important to focus on the people who are there and remember that those who couldn’t attend will still be cheering you on from afar.

Why It Was Worth It

Looking back, I have no regrets about choosing a destination wedding. We are excited to celebrate in a beautiful location, create lifelong memories with our guests, and truly enjoy every moment of the weekend. For us, it wasn’t just about having a wedding, it was about creating a unique experience that reflected who we are as a couple. A destination wedding gives us the opportunity to do just that. If you’re considering a destination wedding, my advice is to go for it. While it may come with some challenges, the memories you create will be worth every bit of effort.