If you are thinking, intimate and scenic around your dream wedding, then a destination wedding could be the way to go. Destination weddings are weddings held far from home; it will include travel to a dream destination, probably one that you have either both fancied or one that has special meaning to either or both of you.
It is however easy, in the African context, for destination weddings to be a little unpopular due to its limitations. Top of that list is the exclusion of most family members. We all know that even that neighbor to your grandmother in the village, is still family and may not take it kindly being left out from such a ceremony. Essentially everyone wants to witness their sons gaining a wife and the daughters being handed in marriage. So, could this be deemed a little selfish in this context? Think about it!
But while you think about destination weddings, we submit to you that there is indeed a lot to factor in. Though it may end up accommodating just a few people because of the intense logistics involved, it can really get resource intensive in terms of planning and execution, in spite of catering for just the few people.
Needless to say, this could still be your desire and dream route into marriage life, and so we thought it wise to share a few insights. This will serve to inform your decision as you weigh and consider both the good and the bad of having a destination wedding.
A destination wedding provides a unique and memorable experience for both you as the couple and your guests. It is an opportunity to celebrate your special day in a beautiful and exotic location, creating unforgettable memories that will last a lifetime.
Like we said earlier, it’s probably a destination that you have always dreamed of or one that holds special meaning like where you first met, or more sentimental as where your parents got married. Simply put, a destination wedding will give you this experience that is specially personal.
I hope this is not in any way to say that one does not want their larger family and friends to attend their wedding, but a Destination wedding will tend to be smaller and more intimate. This is probably what you were aiming for, and if indeed it is your intent, then that is great gain. You can invite only your closest family and friends, creating a personalized and meaningful ceremony. This may be hard to achieve if the wedding is being held in your home area.
It could be said of a Destination wedding that it is synonymous to beauty and nature. They often take place in beautiful and exotic locations, providing a stunning backdrop for the ceremony and photos. Whether it’s a beach, a mountain, or a historic city, your wedding venue will be a breathtaking setting. It is hard to not be in love with the thought of such beauty being captured in photos of your wedding.
A destination wedding can be a great way to combine the wedding and honeymoon into one trip. You can spend quality time with your loved ones and then enjoy a romantic getaway with your partner.
Destination weddings can also be a great way to bring together family and friends who may not otherwise have the opportunity to travel together. It’s a chance to create new memories and strengthen relationships.
Destination weddings can be expensive for guests, who may have to pay for travel, accommodations, and other expenses. This can limit the number of people who can attend and create a financial burden for those who do.
Should you also decide to cater for your family and friends it will definitely be a huge financial burden.
Destination weddings require more planning and coordination with vendors and guests. You will need to research and book vendors from a distance, which can be stressful and time-consuming. Additionally, you will need to ensure that your guests have all the information they need to arrive safely and comfortably.
This may be the price to pay if you really want a destination wedding as it will limit your guest list. Though you may be coming from a large family, as is probably the case with most African Families, not all will be able to meet the logistical costs to be able to make it. It may also be challenging to you as a couple to meet each and everyone’s needs in terms of transport, logistics and accommodation.
While finances may not be the only challenge, other issues like the distance for some members may just lead them to the choice of not attending your nuptials. Essentially you will have a limited guest list which may be a loss in not sharing your big day with all the dear and the loved.
Destination weddings can be stressful for the couple, who may have to deal with language barriers, cultural differences, and other challenges. It’s important to research and understand the local customs and traditions to ensure that your wedding is respectful and meaningful.
Destination weddings may not be legally recognized in all countries, requiring couples to have a separate legal ceremony in their home country. This can create additional stress and paperwork, adding to the complexity of the wedding planning process.
Overall, destination weddings can be a wonderful and unforgettable experience, but they require careful planning and consideration of the pros and cons. It’s important to weigh the benefits against the challenges and decide if a destination wedding is right for you and your loved ones.