Written from the perspective of Sarah Viollis, Senior Account Executive at CIIC PR

Planning a wedding is one thing, but planning a destination wedding? That’s a whole new level of logistics, timelines, and communication. As someone who works in PR—and plans large-scale hospitality events for a living—I know the stress of coordinating multiple moving pieces, often from thousands of miles away.

But here’s the good news: with the right mindset (and a few industry tricks), planning your dream wedding abroad doesn’t have to feel overwhelming. Whether you’re saying “I do” by the ocean in Mexico or nestled in the hills of Tuscany, these are the wedding planning tools I’ve packed in my toolkit as I set out to create an experience that’s just as unforgettable as the big day.

Finding The Location: It’s More Than Just a Pretty View

Choosing a destination is one of the most exciting parts of the planning process—but it’s also one of the most important. Beyond the beautiful backdrops, there are practical (and often overlooked) details that can make or break your experience. Here’s what I always recommend looking for:

Accessibility – A dreamy location doesn’t mean much if it’s too difficult—or expensive—for guests to get to. Look for destinations with direct flights from major cities, reasonable travel times, and convenient airport transfers.
Communication– Communication will be your superpower. If you can swing it, I highly recommend taking a trip to visit your top venue contenders in person. Photos online can be beautiful—but sometimes a little misleading. Seeing the space firsthand gives you a real feel for how everything flows and helps you envision your big day more clearly. Plus, it’s the perfect chance to meet the on-site coordinators and any key contacts you’ll be working with. Trust me, building those relationships early will make the entire planning process feel more personal, organized, and stress-free.
Vendors Who Understand the Assignment – When narrowing down resort options, take a close look at their preferred vendor list. These vendors are typically pre-approved, familiar with the property, and experienced in working within its flow, meaning less stress and fewer surprises for you. It’s a huge plus when your florist, photographer, or DJ already knows where the best lighting is or how the timeline typically runs

All-Inclusive, All the Feels – According to a 2024 Hotels.com survey, 42% of Gen Z travelers now prefer all-inclusive stays, highlighting a significant shift towards convenience and comprehensive experiences. When selecting an all-inclusive resort, consider whether it can bring your full wedding weekend vision to life, not just the ceremony itself. This is your chance to go beyond just one big day and create an experience that reflects you as a couple.
Whether it’s a beach bonfire or a sunset sail with your whole crew, these moments allow you to bring everyone together in a way that’s meaningful, memorable, and completely your own.

Invite with Intention: Making Space for Your Closest Circle

One of the best parts about having a destination wedding? You get to keep it intimate. This is your chance to be thoughtful about who you invite—not just who should be there, but who you genuinely want by your side for such a meaningful weekend. Think of it like curating your own VIP experience—every single guest will play a part in shaping the overall vibe of the weekend. Surround yourself with those who truly support your love story and who you can genuinely picture bringing the kind of energy you’ll want around you from the welcome party to the last goodbye hug.

***

Working in PR has taught me that details matter, relationships are everything, and timing is key—and it turns out, the same rules apply to weddings. From the save-the-dates to the last sunset send-off, it’s your chance to shape a narrative that reflects who you are and what your love feels like. And yes, it’s a little like crafting the ultimate campaign—only this time, the press is your best friends, your parents, and your future in-laws… and the story? It’s the one you’ll be telling for the rest of your lives.

Destination Wedding Planning Secrets From a PR Expert: Insider Tips on Making Planning Stress Free