How to Plan a Destination Wedding in 12 Months (Easy Step-by-Step Guide)

So you just got engaged , congratulations! 💍🎉 And now you're dreaming of saying "I do" with your toes in the sand, a gorgeous sunset behind you, and your favorite people celebrating by your side. But here's the thing: you've only got 12 months to pull it all together. Is it even possible?

I'm here to tell you , absolutely yes! I've helped countless couples plan stunning destination weddings in a year or less, and honestly? It's totally doable when you have a solid plan (and maybe a little help from your friends at Regal Scenic Journeys Travel).

Let's break this down month by month so you can turn your dream wedding into reality! ✨

💒 Why Choose a Destination Wedding?

Before we dive into the timeline, let's talk about why destination weddings are SO worth it:

• Built-in honeymoon : you're already somewhere amazing!
• Intimate guest list : only your ride-or-die crew makes the trip
• Memorable experience : your wedding doubles as a vacation for everyone
• Often more affordable : all-inclusive resorts can actually save you money compared to traditional weddings
• Less stress : many resorts have dedicated wedding coordinators on-site

Trust me, there's nothing quite like watching your best friend tear up during your ceremony while palm trees sway in the background. Pure magic! 🌴💕

📅 Months 12-10: Laying the Foundation

This is where the fun begins! These first few months are all about the big decisions.

✅ Set your budget
Be realistic about what you can spend. Don't forget to factor in:

• Venue and ceremony costs
• Your travel and accommodations
• Guest room blocks
• Vendor fees
• Marriage license requirements

✅ Create your guest list
Destination weddings naturally trim the guest list : and that's okay! Start with your "must-haves" and work from there.

✅ Choose your destination
Mexico? Caribbean? Europe? Hawaii? Think about what vibe you want, the time of year, and how far you're asking guests to travel. I personally love helping couples find that perfect spot that matches their personality!

✅ Book your venue
This is the big one! Popular destination wedding venues book up fast : especially during peak season (think May through September). Once you lock in your venue, everything else falls into place.

✅ Hire a travel advisor
Here's a little secret: working with a full-service travel agency like Regal Scenic Journeys Travel makes this whole process SO much easier. We specialize in destination weddings, and the best part? Our planning services are completely complimentary : we're paid by the resorts and suppliers, not you! 🙌

Check out our Travel Services to see how we can help!

📅 Months 9-7: Building Your Dream Team

Now that you've got your venue locked in, it's time to assemble your crew : both personal and professional!

✅ Send Save-the-Dates
This is HUGE for destination weddings. Your guests need time to request off work, book flights, renew passports, and arrange childcare. Give them as much notice as possible : I recommend sending these out around 9-10 months before!

✅ Choose your wedding party
Ask your bridesmaids, groomsmen, and anyone else you want standing beside you. Make sure they have valid passports if you're heading international!

✅ Book key vendors

• Photographer 📸
• Videographer 🎥
• Florist 💐
• DJ or live music 🎶
• Hair and makeup artist 💄

Many all-inclusive resorts have preferred vendor lists, which makes this step much simpler. I can help you navigate those options!

✅ Start dress shopping
Wedding dresses typically take 6-9 months to order and alter. Start trying on gowns now so you have plenty of time for fittings!

📅 Months 6-4: Details, Details, Details

We're in the home stretch of the planning phase : this is where all those little details come together! 🎀

✅ Send formal invitations
For destination weddings, I recommend mailing invitations about 10-12 weeks before the big day. Include all the travel info, room block details, and RSVP deadlines.

✅ Plan the ceremony
Meet with your officiant (whether on-site or someone you're bringing) to outline:

• The ceremony script
• Readings and vows
• Music selections
• Any cultural or religious traditions

Pro tip: Many couples have a legal ceremony at home before or after, then do a beautiful symbolic ceremony at their destination. It simplifies the paperwork!

✅ Arrange guest experiences
Think beyond just the wedding day! Consider:

• Welcome cocktail party 🍹
• Group excursions or tours
• Rehearsal dinner location
• Day-after brunch

These extra touches make it feel like a true celebration vacation for everyone!

✅ Book transportation
Whether it's airport shuttles, golf carts around the resort, or a vintage car for your grand exit : get those details sorted now.

✅ Order wedding cake
Work with your resort's pastry team or a local bakery to design your dream cake (or dessert table : no judgment here! 🍰).

📅 Months 3-2: Finalize Everything

We're getting close! Time to tie up loose ends and confirm all those bookings.

✅ Follow up on RSVPs
Chase down those stragglers! You need a final headcount for catering, seating, and transportation.

✅ Finalize your menu
Schedule a tasting if possible, confirm courses, and note any dietary restrictions.

✅ Create your seating chart
Once you know who's coming, you can figure out where everyone sits!

✅ Confirm vendor details
Touch base with every single vendor to confirm:

• Arrival times
• Delivery schedules
• Contact information
• Any last-minute changes

✅ Obtain your marriage license
Requirements vary by destination! Some locations require you to arrive a few days early, while others have specific documentation needs. I always help my couples navigate this : it can get tricky with international weddings!

📅 Final Month: The Countdown Is ON! 🎊

You're almost there! This final month is all about confirmations and self-care.

✅ Final dress fitting
Make sure everything fits perfectly and your gown is ready to travel!

✅ Hair and makeup trial
Lock in your wedding day look so there are no surprises.

✅ Confirm all travel bookings
Double-check flights, hotel reservations, and transfers for you, your wedding party, and your guests.

✅ Create your day-of timeline
Map out every moment : from hair appointments to the last dance. Share this with your vendors and wedding coordinator.

✅ Pack strategically
Carry your dress, rings, and important documents in your carry-on. Trust me on this one! 👗💍

💝 Let Us Help You Plan Your Dream Day!

I know this might seem like a lot : but honestly? Planning a destination wedding in 12 months is completely achievable, especially when you have the right support.

At Regal Scenic Journeys Travel, we're a full-service travel agency that specializes in destination weddings. From finding the perfect resort to coordinating room blocks for your guests, we handle all the travel logistics so you can focus on the fun stuff!

Whether you're dreaming of a beachfront ceremony in Cancun, a romantic vineyard wedding in Tuscany, or an adventurous celebration in Hawaii : I'd absolutely love to help you bring your vision to life!

Learn more about me and let's start planning your perfect destination wedding together!

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📞 Call or text: 1 (810) 297-1523

📧 Email: kimfrink@regalscenicjourneys.net

💻 Visit: regalscenicjourneys.net/Contact

Can't wait to hear from you! 💒✨