Let’s be real, planning a wedding is basically a part-time job. And when you add destination in front of it? It can sound like you’re signing up for even more chaos. But here’s the truth: planning a destination wedding can actually be simpler if you start early and have the right help by your side.
So… how long does it take to plan a destination wedding? Let’s break it down.
The Ideal Timeline: 12–16 Months Out
If you’re dreaming of tying the knot in paradise, giving yourself at least 12–16 months is the sweet spot. Why? Because destination weddings involve more moving pieces — travel, room blocks, flights, group coordination, resort availability — and your guests will need time to plan (and pay for!) their trip.
The earlier you start, the better your chances of locking in your dream resort, scoring the best group perks, and making the whole process a breeze for your guests.
Month-By-Month Destination Wedding Planning Timeline
14–16 Months Out:
Start working with a destination wedding travel advisor (that’s us!). We’ll help you narrow down the perfect location, resort, and ideal travel window for your wedding.
12–14 Months Out:
Secure your resort and wedding date. This is when we negotiate your room block, confirm your wedding package, and launch your guest booking site.
9–12 Months Out:
Send out your save-the-dates and let guests know it’s time to book! We’ll manage their reservations, payments, and questions so you don’t have to.
6–9 Months Out:
Start the fun part: planning wedding details with your resort’s wedding coordinator — florals, menu, music, ceremony timing, and more.
3–6 Months Out:
Final headcount due, timelines get finalized, travel documents reviewed. You’ll be in full-on let’s do this mode, and we’ll make sure you’re totally ready.
1–2 Months Out:
Your final payment is in, bags are (mentally) packed, and it’s time to get excited. We’re wrapping up the logistics while you dream about welcome cocktails and turquoise water.
How Timelines Affect Group Rates & Room Blocks
If you’ve ever planned a vacation for a few friends or family members, you know it takes some coordination. Now imagine doing it for 60, 70, or even 80 people, because that’s what most destination weddings involve.
The benefit of having a larger group? You’re often eligible for group rates and room blocks that come with some pretty great advantages. These include:
- Guaranteed room inventory so your guests aren’t scrambling to find availability
- Consistent pricing for everyone in your group
- Potential perks for you as the couple, like complimentary rooms or suite upgrades
That said, room blocks operate on their own timeline, and it’s usually earlier than couples expect. Here’s what to keep in mind:
- Guest deposits are typically due about 6–7 months before the wedding
- Final payments are often required around 120 days before travel
Because of these deadlines, starting early is key, especially if your guests have busy schedules, need time to budget, or are waiting on vacation approvals. We walk you through all of this (and take care of the details) during your planning process, so nothing gets missed.
By planning ahead, you give your guests a better experience and give yourself more flexibility with resorts, perks, and availability.
Why Planning Can Be Faster (& Less Stressful) With A Travel Advisor
Now, could you DIY all of this on your own? Sure. But between Googling resorts, fielding questions from guests, managing contracts, and trying to make everyone happy, it adds up fast. That’s where we come in.
When you hire a destination wedding travel advisor (like Alpaca Your Bags Travel), you’re outsourcing the stressful stuff, especially guest travel, resort negotiations, and the millions of questions that pop up along the way.
You’ll get:
- A curated list of wedding-friendly resorts based on your style and budget
- Room blocks, perks, and upgrades negotiated on your behalf
- A custom wedding website for your guests
- Guest communication and booking handled start to finish
- A direct line to the resort’s wedding team (we’ve got connections!)
We take care of your guests while you focus on your day. And when everyone arrives? You get to soak it all in, knowing the hard part is already handled.
Start Early, Plan Smart, & Hire A Destination Wedding Travel Advisor
So, how long does it take to plan a destination wedding? Ideally, 12–16 months, but with a travel advisor on your team, it feels like way less. You’ll still get that paradise beach wedding you’ve been dreaming of… just without the spreadsheet stress.
Ready to get started? Let’s find the perfect location for your big day!
