Planning a wedding can be one of the most exhilarating, yet difficult stages for any couple. With so much to consider, perhaps nowhere has as much influence as where you set up shop. A wedding at home is a sort of go-to option, but an out-of-state or out-of-country wedding creates an experience unlike any other. But, as with any big decision, there are pros and cons to consider.
So, if you’re thinking about planning out-of-state, this article outlines some pros and cons to help you determine whether it’s a good fit for your big day.
Benefits of Hosting a Wedding Out of State
A Destination Experience Like No Other
Having an out-of-state wedding gives you the ability to select a destination that speaks to both your and your partner’s personalities. From a beachside ceremony in California to a rustic barn in Texas, to a scenic mountain backdrop in Colorado, the options are endless. This decision can turn your wedding into basically a vacation for you and your guests.
Smaller Guest List
Choosing a wedding in a destination outside your home state usually leads to guests opting out since not everyone will be able to travel. That may seem like a restriction, but it can work to your advantage. Having a lower guest list means you can really keep the celebration intimate and surrounded by family / close friends. It also controls costs, of course.
Personalized Venue Options
Getting married out of state expands your choice of venues. From vineyards and resorts to monuments and modern 21st-century urban environments, you can choose a setting that matches your taste. Many destination places have wedding packages, which can make the planning process easier, too.
A Memorable Experience for Your Guests
The adventure of traveling to unknown territory can be enticing for guests of your out-of-state wedding. This allows your wedding to be a shared experience and gives everyone an opportunity to make lasting memories, not only of the ceremony but the destination too.
A Reason to Celebrate Longer
Since guests often travel long distances to attend, lots of couples stretch the party beyond the wedding day. Pre-wedding meals, post-wedding breakfasts and group activities like sightseeing or hiking contribute to the celebratory mood.
Cons of Getting Married Out of State
Higher Costs
An out-of-state wedding can often cost more. Costs for travel, accommodations, and shipping things to the venue can really add up. Out-of-state vendors may also charge more for a location in a high-demand area. Couples need to plan a budget to prevent their spending from going overboard.
Planning from a Distance
Planning a wedding from another country can be tricky. It’s harder to find reliable vendors and manage logistics without local experience. Hiring a wedding planner who knows the area can help, but this is an additional expense.
Limited Guest Attendance
While a more intimate guest list can be a pro, it could also be that some important people may not be able to attend because of the expenses involved in traveling or time restrictions or other personal reasons. This could be a letdown for couples who would like to have all of their friends and family there to celebrate with them on their big day.
Difficulties With Travel and Accommodations
A wedding held out of state should be meticulously planned for travel needs for guests. The planning of flights, transportation to the venue, hotel accommodation can start to get a little hectic. Unexpected delays or cancellations can add stress, too.
Legal Requirements
Marriage license requirements are different in every state. Couples must do their own homework to understand their state’s legal requirements, which may include residency requirements or waiting periods. Overlooking these details may cause last-minute difficulties.
Should You Have an Out-of-State Wedding? Here’s How to Decide
Deciding to have an out-of-state wedding ultimately comes down to your priorities, your budget, and your vision for the day. Here are some questions you might consider:
What’s Your Budget?
Make sure you can comfortably afford travel, venue and accommodation costs, while also factoring in some contingency payments.
How Flexible Are You About the Guest List?
If having all of your loved ones there is a primary concern, an out-of-state wedding may not be the way to go.
Do you like travel and adventure?
An out-of-state wedding may be a perfect match for your personalities if you and your partner enjoy exploring new places and trying new things.
Are you ready for the logistics?
Think about whether you have the time and energy to plan a wedding from afar. If not, enlisting a professional planner is a smart investment.
How To Plan A Wedding Out Of State
If you think an out-of-state wedding is the right move for you, these guidelines may help simplify the process:
Visit the Location in Advance
Book at least one visit to the venue to finalize details and meet vendors.
Hire a Local Wedding Planner
A local planner knows the key vendors, they can work with the client to coordinate logistics and get everything moving smoothly.
Communicate Clearly With Guests
Create a wedding site with details on suggestions for where to stay, how to get around, and what to see nearby. This allows guests to easily plan their trip.
Pack Smartly
Make sure nothing important, your wedding dress and travel documents, for example, is not safely packed and with you. If at all possible, do not ship anything valuable.
Arrive Early
Plan to arrive with time in hand, at least a few days ahead of the wedding, so you can take care of anything that needs doing at the last minute and get your bearings.
Final Thoughts
The scenic backdrop, coupled with the allure of traveling to a new location, can create a truly enchanting and memorable experience for you and your guests. But this also involves planning and some consideration of possible hurdles. Considering the advantages and disadvantages, budgeting responsibly and asking for assistance when required, can make you choose whether such an adventurous option is the best match for you on your special day.
So long as you set your sights on the right perspective and plan accordingly, an out-of-state wedding can be as stress-free as it is special.
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