A destination wedding weekend isn’t just about the wedding itself, it’s about creating an entire experience that you and your guests will never forget.
Unlike a traditional wedding where everything is crammed into a single day, a destination wedding lets you spread out the celebrations, giving everyone time to relax, explore, and truly enjoy.
So, what does the perfect wedding weekend itinerary look like? Here’s how to balance fun, relaxation, and, of course, the big day itself!
Day 1: Welcome To Paradise!
Arrival & Check-In
Your guests have been counting down the days, and now it’s finally here! You can have a welcome bag waiting for them at check-in with itinerary details, snacks, and a little tropical treat! After traveling, they’ll want to unwind, grab a drink, and soak in the views before the festivities officially begin.
Casual Welcome Drinks & Meet-Up
Kick off the weekend with laid-back welcome drinks at a poolside bar or beachfront lounge. This gives guests a chance to mix, mingle, and start vacation mode officially.
You can make it open-house style so guests can come and go as they please while you and your partner make the rounds.
Day 2: Wedding Eve—Relax & Enjoy The Resort
A Day Of Leisure
Rather than overscheduling, let your guests enjoy everything the resort has to offer at their own pace.
Some ideas you can tell them to take advantage of:
- Lounge by the pool with tropical cocktails
- Hit the beach for a swim or a paddleboarding session
- Indulge in a spa day with massages & facials
- Plan casual resort games—beach volleyball, tequila tastings, or even a fun pool float party
As the couple getting married, take this day to spend intentional time together. You could do a quiet breakfast, a sunset walk, or a spa treatment as a couple. You’ll love having a moment to breathe before the big day!
The Night Before Dinner
This can be as formal or casual as you want! Options could include:
- A private group dinner at a resort restaurant
- A relaxed beach bonfire with BBQ & music
- A rooftop cocktail party to toast the weekend
Keep it simple during the dinner! A short toast to welcome everyone is all you need—save the speeches for the wedding day!
Day 3: The Big Day!
Slow & Stress-Free Start
Keep the energy calm and relaxed before the main event. Consider:
- Morning yoga or meditation on the beach
- A casual breakfast with your wedding party or family
- A quiet moment for just the two of you
I highly suggest assigning someone (planner, bridesmaid, or best man) as the point person for last-minute questions so you don’t have to deal with them.
Prep & Photos Begin
As you’re getting glammed up, your guests can:
- Enjoy poolside drinks & resort activities
- Relax in their rooms and get wedding-ready
- Take their own fun pre-wedding photos around the resort
Ceremony & ‘I Dos’
It’s time for the moment you’ve been waiting for! Whether it’s a beachfront setup, a garden oasis, or a sky terrace with ocean views, your ceremony will be nothing short of amazing.
Cocktail Hour, Reception, & Dancing Under The Stars
- Cocktail hour with signature drinks & appetizers
- Reception dinner—plated, buffet, or family-style
- Dancing & entertainment—fire dancers, live bands, or a DJ to keep the party going
For some bonus fun, surprise your guests with a late-night snack bar (hello, tacos or churros!) before calling it a night!
Day 4: Post-Wedding Adventure & Farewell Fun
Group Excursion Or Adventure Activity
Now that the wedding is over, it’s time for one last hurrah! Instead of saying goodbye immediately, plan a fun, optional group activity:
- Catamaran cruise with snorkeling & an open bar
- ATV or zipline adventure for the thrill-seekers
- Local cultural tour—think tequila tastings or visiting a historic town
If an excursion isn’t your vibe, keep it low-key with a group pool day—a final round of drinks, sunbathing, and reminiscing about the best wedding weekend ever!
Farewell & Goodbyes
Have a final little gathering with drinks or dinner to say your goodbyes and thank yous before all your guests head back home! Keep it relaxed so guests can drop in as they pack up before their flights home.
Day 5: Your Honeymoon Begins!
Your guests might be heading home, but your adventure is just getting started!
- Extend your stay at the resort for a mini-moon
- Jet off to a new destination for a change of scenery
- Treat yourselves to a spa day & private dinner to decompress
A Wedding Weekend To Remember Forever!
A destination wedding is a multi-day experience that brings your closest people together for a fun celebration in paradise.
By balancing relaxation, adventure, and meaningful moments, you’ll create a stress-free, memory-filled wedding weekend that everyone will rave about for years.
And the best part? You don’t have to plan it all alone!
With Alpaca Your Bags Travel, we handle all the logistics and details so you can actually enjoy your wedding weekend without the stress.Let’s make your dream destination wedding weekend something everyone will love! Get in touch today!
