Destination Wedding Planning Timeline: A Month-by-Month Checklist
Updated November 2026
A destination wedding needs the same planning as any wedding, plus one extra job: getting everyone there and looking after them once they arrive. This timeline puts the guest side of the work in the right order so nothing lands in the last month.
12 to 18 months before
- Agree a rough budget and guest count. Expect fewer guests than at home: many couples see a smaller share of invitees attend.
- Shortlist two or three destinations and check flights from where most guests live. Our destination comparisons show season, flights, getting around and costs for guests side by side.
- Pick a date in the shoulder season if you can: better prices and fewer crowds. Check local holidays and festivals that fill hotels.
- Visit, or video-call, venues and a local planner. Book the venue.
10 to 12 months before
- Set up a hotel room block or choose two or three recommended hotels at different prices.
- Send save-the-dates with the place, the dates and the hotel link. See when to send save-the-dates for a destination wedding.
- Book the photographer, and the caterer if the venue does not include one.
- Make a wedding website or a guest page with travel information and things to do.
8 to 10 months before
- Book music, florist, hair and makeup.
- Check legal requirements for marrying in the country. Many couples do the legal ceremony at home and a symbolic one abroad.
- Plan the weekend: a welcome event, the wedding and a day-after brunch. Our wedding weekend events guide has ideas.
4 to 6 months before
- Send invitations with RSVP and meal choices. See invitation wording examples.
- Book guest transport: airport transfers if you offer them and the wedding-night shuttle.
- Book the welcome dinner venue. Each destination has a page of group-friendly welcome dinner restaurants.
- Share a short list of group activities so friends can book together. Popular tours sell out in high season.
2 to 3 months before
- Chase missing RSVPs and check how many rooms guests have booked.
- Order welcome bag items and write the welcome letter. Our welcome letter generator adds local tips for your destination.
- Finalize the menu, timings and seating plan.
The last month
- Send guests a final note: schedule, dress code, weather, transport and the guest page link. Point them to the packing list.
- Confirm every supplier in writing, with arrival times and a local contact number.
- Pack the welcome bags, or ship the items to the hotel and confirm the delivery fee.
- Pick one friend or the planner as the contact for guest questions over the weekend.
After the wedding
- Thank guests within a few weeks. They travelled far to be there.
- Collect photos through your hashtag. No hashtag yet? Try the hashtag generator.