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Destination wedding planning checklist: 10 milestones from "yes" to farewell brunch

The big steps for a beach or all-inclusive resort wedding, in the order that matters.

Not legal advice. Prices change. Resort packages, fees and terms change often and vary by resort. Confirm every price and condition with the resort's wedding department, in writing, before you book or pay. Disclaimer

A resort wedding is one of the easiest ways to throw a celebration your guests will remember: the venue, food, rooms and an on-site coordinator are all in one place. The secret is doing things in the right order. Here are the 10 big milestones, from engagement to farewell brunch.

The 10 milestones

  1. Set your budget, guest count and dream destination.
  2. Talk with a destination wedding travel agent to narrow down your resort shortlist.
  3. Choose your resort and compare its wedding packages.
  4. Decide on a legal wedding abroad or a symbolic ceremony at the resort.
  5. Lock in your date and set up a room block for your guests.
  6. Send save-the-dates with your travel details.
  7. Book your photographer, flowers, music and other extras.
  8. Send invitations and help guests plan their travel.
  9. Confirm every detail with your resort coordinator before you fly.
  10. Arrive early, enjoy your wedding week, and wrap up with a farewell brunch.

Not sure whether your ceremony will be legal? See free vs legal wedding.

You don't have to do it alone

Your resort's wedding coordinator plans the day itself, and a destination wedding travel agent can compare resorts, explain the fine print and manage your guests' room block. Together they take care of most of the bookings, so you can focus on the fun parts.

Get free help booking a resort wedding. An independent travel agent can compare these packages for you, check the fine print, and set up the room block for your guests, at no cost to you.
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