What’s the Best Way to Travel with My Wedding Dress?

Do not, under any circumstance, put your dress into checked luggage.  There are just too many potentials for issues.  Instead, carry it on with you.  Talk to your airline ahead of time to see if they have standard procedures and definitely make sure you book a ticket that includes a carry on.  (Major airlines have started selling cheaper fares known as “basic economy” which do not include seat assignments or carry ons).   The ideal wedding dress travel bag will be small enough to fit into the overhead bin but still sturdy.  We like this one because it doesn’t require alot of maintenance.  Pro tip:  bring a good handheld steamer.

When Should We Send Out Save the Dates?

Generally, as soon as you secure the venue and ceremony.  At least 8-12 months ahead.  Giving your guests time to plan and decide is important, especially for destinations requiring passports.  We have seen and tried everything over the years, but we prefer electronic save the dates.   

What About Invitations?

If you are following up with invitations, they should be sent out 4 months prior to the wedding.  Since final payments on travel will be due 6-8 weeks before departure, it’s necessary to send out invites out 8 weeks ahead of that date.  Otherwise, it becomes an awkward situation where your guests receive a mailed invite and then realize that their trip is due in full immediately.  The great thing about destination weddings is that the traditional rules don’t apply – you get to make up your own rules.  Many couples are opting to skip the expense and work of sending out mailed invitations.  Since guests will be booking (or at least viewing) travel details online, it makes sense to use a Save the Date that links them to the Wedding Travel Website.  Once they have that information, a physical invite sent later seems redundant.

Do We Have to Pay for Our Guests’ Travel?

Not unless you want or choose to  The expectation is that guests will pay for their own travel.  Just like anyone from out of town would need to travel for a wedding in your hometown.  So that this important information is clearly communicated, we recommend carefully wording your Save the Date and wedding travel website with phrases that instruct guests where and how to book their reservation.  Vacations With Flair helps couples get great group rates for their guests.

What if We Want to Honeymoon Elsewhere?

No Problem!  Just plan it!  We’ve seen couples try to accomplish this at the same resort, but it’s an impossible situation.  Your friends and family love you too much to resist finding you and chatting.  So, plan to move to a second resort.  Even if it’s only a mile away, it will give you the space and distance you need for a romantic honeymoon alone.  Be sure to tell your destination wedding travel planner about this desire ahead of time so that they can help you get the best package rate.

Can We Have an Intimate Wedding then Celebrate When We Get Back Home?

Yes!  The hottest trend involves couples throwing a fun celebration at home after the wedding trip and inviting absolutely everyone.  There are no rules for this, so plan yours according to your personality and budget.  Have a band, cake and full wedding attire in a gorgeous venue or do a simple backyard get together.  The important thing to remember is that it gives everyone the chance to celebrate with you.