How To Plan A Destination Wedding: Oakley House Guide

Have you ever dreamed of saying “I do” in a stunning location away from home, surrounded by picturesque views and unforgettable charm? If so, a destination wedding might be on your mind. Imagine you both are exchanging vows in a breathtaking setting that reflects your love story, creating memories that will last a lifetime for you and your loved ones. That’s the beauty of a destination wedding.

But how do you plan a destination wedding to make it a wonderful and unique experience? Don’t worry. Our experts at Oakley House know the vision of your destination wedding may be unique, so we have compiled this guide to help you know everything you need to make your wedding day seamless, stress-free, and memorable.

Looking for a venue that offers historic beauty, modern amenities, and flexible packages tailored to your needs? Oakley House is a beautiful and historic venue in Bromley that you will love. Call us on 020 8462 9292 or email us at info@oakleyhouse.co.uk to know more about our venue and packages in detail.

What Is A Destination Wedding?

Before we move ahead, some of you may not know what a destination wedding actually is. So, first, let’s clarify it.

A destination wedding is a wedding that takes place in a location away from the couple’s hometown. It is often held in a beautiful or unique setting, like a beach, a historic venue, or a picturesque garden. The idea is to create a special experience for the couple and their guests, making the wedding feel like a mini vacation.

Why Choose A Destination Wedding?

Now that you know what a destination wedding is, here are some compelling reasons why couples choose this type of wedding:

• Beautiful scenery: Get married in a breathtaking location, such as a beach, mountain, vineyard, or venue, creating a stunning backdrop for your wedding photos.
• Smaller guest list: Intimate celebrations with close family and friends make it more enjoyable.
• Easier planning: Many wedding venues offer all-inclusive packages, making planning simpler and more convenient.
• More affordable:  A destination wedding is more budget-friendly than a big, traditional wedding.
• Extended celebration: Turn your wedding into a mini vacation, giving you extra time to enjoy special moments with your loved ones before and after the ceremony.
• Cultural experience: The location offers an exciting cultural adventure with unique traditions and local food.
• Honeymoon in one: You’ll enjoy a wedding and honeymoon in one trip, saving time and money.

How To Plan A Destination Wedding?

Planning a destination wedding requires careful consideration of several factors. Here’s a step-by-step guide that every couple should follow:

Step 1: Define Your Vision And Budget

Start with a clear vision of what you want your wedding to look and feel like. Are you considering a grand celebration with a vintage-inspired theme or a more modern, intimate gathering? Defining your style early helps set the tone for the rest of the planning process.

Budget tips for destination weddings:

• Many wedding venues offer flexible packages tailored to fit different budgets. Understand the cost breakdown for venue rental, catering, decorations, and additional services.
• Ask about the details of all-inclusive packages, which often cover catering, furniture, and decor, making budget management more straightforward.
• Don’t forget to include travel and accommodation expenses for your guests in the overall budget.

Also Read: How Much Do Wedding Venues Cost

Step 2. Choose The Right Date And Book Early

The next step is selecting the right date, crucial for securing your ideal venue and services. Popular venues can book up months, even years, in advance, so start early.

Booking tips:

• When selecting your date, keep in mind the time of year. Many venues offer a beautiful setting year-round but consider the seasons for the atmosphere you envision (e.g., spring for lush gardens or winter for a cosy, intimate gathering).
• Confirm the availability of key service providers, such as photographers and entertainment, to ensure they align with your wedding date.

Step 3. Build Your Guest List And Send Invitations Early

Building a guest list shapes your wedding’s size and vibe. A destination wedding often means a smaller, more intimate gathering, but this depends on the capacity and layout of your chosen venue.

Guest list tips for a destination wedding:

• Create a preliminary guest list and set a target number based on the venue’s capacity to ensure the space feels comfortable and not overcrowded.
• For a destination wedding, send invitations well in advance (6–12 months before the event). Include RSVP instructions and travel details to help your guests plan their trip.

Step 4. Leverage All-Inclusive Services For A Seamless Experience

Many venues offer all-inclusive packages designed to simplify planning and coordination. These can cover everything from catering and furniture to decor and event management. This minimises stress and maximises convenience for couples.

Service highlights:

• Catering and menu planning: Opt for a flexible menu that caters to dietary restrictions and preferences. Consider a menu showcasing local specialities and popular dishes for an inclusive dining experience.
• Event coordination: Access to experienced event coordinators can make a big difference. They can assist with creating a detailed timeline and ensuring everything goes according to plan on the day.
• Decor and setup: Choose from different décor packages to match your vision, whether you prefer a traditional, modern, or eclectic look. Highlighting the venue’s architectural features can add an elegant touch.

Step 5. Plan Travel And Accommodation For Your Guests

Your guests’ travel experience is essential to the destination wedding planning process. Ensure they feel supported and informed about getting to and staying at your wedding location.

Travel and accommodation tips:

• Work with your venue to arrange block bookings at nearby hotels or provide a list of recommended accommodations in various price ranges.
• Include detailed travel information in your invitations or a wedding website, such as directions, nearby airports, and transportation options.
• Consider hosting a pre-wedding event like a welcome dinner or drinks to help guests mingle and settle in before the main celebration.

Step 6. Choose Your Entertainment And Photography

Your wedding photos will be cherished memories, so choose a photographer who understands how to capture your venue’s beauty through candid moments, detailed shots, or breathtaking landscape views.

Photography and entertainment tips:

• Schedule a site visit with your photographer to scout out the best spots for photos, taking advantage of the venue’s natural light and architectural features.
• Explore different entertainment options, such as live bands, DJs, or even classical musicians, to enhance the mood of your event. Music during the ceremony can elevate the experience, creating a sophisticated atmosphere.
• Ensure the audio and sound system meets your expectations, especially if you plan on hosting speeches or dancing.

Step 7. Finalise Details And Create A Detailed Schedule

With the big day approaching, now is the time to ensure every detail is checked and confirmed. Working with your venue’s team to create a detailed schedule will help keep things organised.

Finalisation tips:

• Share the final guest list with your venue to confirm place settings and seating arrangements.
• Schedule a last meeting with your event coordinator to review the schedule, address any last-minute questions, and finalise details.
• Confirm timelines for vendor arrivals and setups to ensure everything is in place before your guests arrive.

Step 8. Prepare For The Unexpected

Destination weddings have unique challenges, such as travel disruptions or unexpected weather. Having a backup plan and staying adaptable is key to handling these situations smoothly.

Destination wedding tips for flexibility:

• Check that indoor options are available in case of rain or unforeseen weather conditions.
• Prepare an emergency kit with extra makeup, safety pins, and first-aid supplies.
• Keep in close contact with your event coordinator for real-time updates and quick decision-making to address any last-minute changes.

So, following these tips, you can plan a destination wedding seamlessly for an unforgettable experience.

Oakley House: Your Perfect Destination Wedding Venue In Bromley

Oakley House combines historic charm with modern amenities, offering a picturesque setting for your destination wedding. Located in Bromley, our venue is perfect for couples seeking a beautiful backdrop for their special day without the hassle of overseas travel. Oakley House caters to intimate ceremonies and grand celebrations with flexible indoor and outdoor spaces, including a licensed gazebo, lush gardens, and an elegant banqueting suite.

Our all-inclusive wedding package makes planning stress-free, covering catering, décor, and event coordination to create a seamless experience. Whether you dream of a vintage-inspired wedding or a modern romantic affair, our dedicated team will tailor every detail to reflect your vision. With ample parking, excellent transport links, and accommodations nearby, your guests will enjoy a convenient and memorable celebration.

Make your dream destination wedding a reality at Oakley House. Call 020 8462 9292 or email info@oakleyhouse.co.uk today to book your perfect day!