Back to Blog
Ann Marie Patt
evyssa vacations

Finding the perfect destination wedding location requires a strategic approach that balances your romantic vision with logistical reality. The process should start by defining three non-negotiables: your budget, your estimated guest count, and the travel tolerance of your VIP guests (e.g., can grandma handle a 10-hour flight?). While exotic locations like Bora Bora offer unmatched beauty, accessible hubs like Riviera Maya or Punta Cana often provide the "sweet spot" of direct flights, all-inclusive value, and simplified legal requirements for larger groups.

In the enchanting world of Evyssa Vacations, each wedding destination is a gateway to matrimonial bliss, exquisitely shaped to align with your dreams and desires, ensuring that your nuptial narrative is woven with threads of splendor and expertise. My dear betrothed adventurers, with Evyssa, your union is not just a ceremony; it’s a voyage into a realm where every nuance is as meticulously crafted as a masterpiece in the grand gallery of love and commitment.

Saying "I Do" to the Destination: Your Guide to Choosing the Perfect Wedding Destination

Punta Cana, Mexico, and the Caribbean: Tropical Bliss

Island Hopping Adventures: Finding Your Perfect Paradise

Cultural Flavor:
• Punta Cana: Rich Dominican culture and vibrant beach settings.
• Mexico (Cancun): A blend of ancient Mayan traditions and modern resort amenities.
• Caribbean (Varies): Each island boasts its unique cultural influences.

Cost:
• Punta Cana: Often budget-friendly with various all-inclusive resort options.
• Mexico: A range of options from budget-friendly to luxury, offering diverse wedding packages, and a plethora of all-inclusive resorts.
• Caribbean: Limited all-inclusive options, varying from budget-friendly to luxurious.

Wedding Experiences:
• Punta Cana: Beach ceremonies, tropical gardens, and picturesque resorts.
• Mexico: Ancient ruins as backdrops, beachfront ceremonies, and vibrant local entertainment.
• Caribbean: Diverse landscapes, from the pristine beaches of Turks and Caicos to the historic charm of Puerto Rico.

Guest Experiences:
• Punta Cana: Excursions to Saona Island, exploring indigenous culture.
• Mexico: Exploring ancient Mayan ruins, vibrant nightlife, and diverse culinary delights.
• Caribbean: Explore coral reefs, indulge in local delicacies, and immerse in the diverse cultures across the Caribbean islands.

Ease of Travel:
• These destinations are popular with well-connected international airports. Direct flights from major cities make it relatively easy for guests to travel with the smaller Caribbean Islands being the exception where puddle jumpers or connecting flights may be required. Mexico and Punta Cana are easily accessible destinations for many.

Saying "I Do" to the Destination: Your Guide to Choosing the Perfect Wedding Destination

Costa Rica: Where Nature Meets Romance

Your Costa Rican Love Story Starts Here

Lush Landscapes:
• Costa Rica offers breathtaking rainforests, volcanoes, and Pacific or Caribbean coastlines.

Cost:
• Mid-range to upscale, with eco-friendly resorts and stunning venues.

Wedding Experiences:
• Unique settings like waterfall ceremonies, jungle backdrops, and beachfront celebrations.

Guest Experiences:
• Adventure-filled days with zip-lining, wildlife tours, and exploring pristine national parks.

Ease of Travel:
• Well-connected airports make Costa Rica accessible. While it may require a longer flight sometimes with a connection, the lush landscapes and adventure-filled experiences make it worthwhile for couples seeking a nature-infused celebration

Europe: Spain, Italy, Greece - Romance Redefined

Ancient History, Modern Love

Historical Elegance:
• Spain, Italy, and Greece offer historic charm, from Spanish castles to Italian villas and Greek island settings.


Cost:
• Mid-range to upscale, with Italy often on the higher end for its luxury wedding venues.
Wedding Experiences:
• Romantic vineyard weddings in Tuscany, Coastal ceremonies in Santorini, or intimate celebrations near Barcelona.


Guest Experiences:
• Cultural explorations, from ancient ruins to vibrant city life, and exquisite Mediterranean cuisine.


Ease of travel:
• The major European cities have excellent connectivity. International flights into the major cities are common, making it relatively easy for guests to travel. With certain destinations like the Greek or Spanish Islands there will be potential layovers, however, the breathtaking beauty and romantic ambiance of these European destinations offer a unique setting for couples envisioning a culturally rich escape.

Saying "I Do" to the Destination: Your Guide to Choosing the Perfect Wedding Destination

French Polynesia: Paradise in the Pacific

Your Polynesian Dream Awaits

Island Paradise:
• Bora Bora, Tahiti, and Moorea boast overwater bungalows and crystal-clear lagoons.

Cost:
• Luxury and upscale with exclusive overwater bungalow experiences.

Wedding Experiences:

• Ceremonies on private beaches, lagoon-side vows, and traditional Polynesian touches.


Guest Experiences:
• Snorkeling in vibrant coral gardens, exploring lush landscapes, and indulging in luxury accommodations.


Ease of Travel:
• Longer flights and water transfers throughout French Polynesia are balanced by the allure of overwater bungalows and crystal-clear lagoons. The journey adds to the exclusivity of this Pacific paradise.

Saying "I Do" to the Destination: Your Guide to Choosing the Perfect Wedding Destination

Saying "I Do" to the Destination: Your Guide to Choosing the Perfect Wedding Destination

Saying "I Do" to the Destination: Your Guide to Choosing the Perfect Wedding Destination

Saying "I Do" to the Destination: Your Guide to Choosing the Perfect Wedding Destination

Saying "I Do" to the Destination: Your Guide to Choosing the Perfect Wedding Destination

Ready to Say "I Do" to Your Dream Destination Wedding?

Choosing the perfect location is just the first step! Let the expert destination wedding planners at Evyssa Vacations guide you through every detail, from selecting the ideal venue to crafting a personalized itinerary that reflects your unique love story.

Contact us today for a complimentary consultation. We'll help you create a celebration as magical and unforgettable as your love itself.

Frequently Asked Questions: Finding Your Wedding Destination

1. What is the first step in finding a wedding location?

Before looking at venues, establish your guest list size and budget. These two factors will immediately rule out certain destinations that are either too expensive or too difficult for a large group to reach.

2. How does guest accessibility affect the location?

If you want a high attendance rate, choose a destination with direct flights from your guests' home cities (like Cancun or Montego Bay). If you choose a remote island requiring multiple layovers and boats, expect a smaller, more intimate group.

3. What is the most budget-friendly region for destination weddings?

Mexico (Riviera Maya/Cancun) and the Dominican Republic generally offer the best value. The competition between resorts there keeps prices competitive, and the all-inclusive model helps guests cap their spending.

4. Should we consider the weather/season?

Absolutely. Be mindful of hurricane season in the Caribbean (June to November). Prices are lower, but the risk of rain is higher. Conversely, avoiding peak holiday weeks (Christmas/Easter) saves money.

5. What is the difference between legal and symbolic weddings?

A legal wedding requires official paperwork, translations, and blood tests in the destination country. A symbolic wedding has no legal binding (you get married at your local courthouse first), allowing you to have a stress-free ceremony anywhere without red tape.

6. Is it better to choose an All-Inclusive resort?

For groups, yes. All-inclusive resorts simplify costs for your guests (food and drink are covered) and provide built-in venues for welcome parties and receptions without rental fees.

7. How far in advance should we secure the location?

You should aim to book your venue and room block 12 to 18 months in advance, especially if you want a popular date (like a Saturday in May or June).

8. Can we visit the venue before booking?

Yes. We highly recommend a "site inspection" trip. Many resorts offer special rates for couples to stay for 2-3 nights, taste the food, and see the venues in person before signing a contract.

9. How do we handle kids vs. adults-only?

Decide early if you want children present. If you want an adults-only vibe but some guests have kids, choose a multi-generational resort complex (like Dreams next to Secrets) that offers both options nearby.

10. Why use a travel advisor to find the location?

A travel advisor acts as a matchmaker. Instead of you spending 50 hours Googling "best beach wedding," we narrow it down to 3 options that strictly match your budget, style, and travel needs.

Ann Marie Patt

Destination Wedding Expert

get in touch
plan your travel today

Anticipation is killing you? Let’s get ahead of the game.

We know the feeling, that spark when you start imagining the next adventure. So why wait? Set the direction, and we’ll refine it from there. Explore how your journey could unfold, then let us make it unmistakably yours.

Follow Us

Hire Your Luxury Travel Agent!

To ensure we provide you with the most accurate and timely information, please let us know a convenient day and the best time for us to contact you. This way, we can ensure that our response reaches you directly, avoiding the clutter of the digital realm. Whether it's through a call, email or text message, we want to make sure our communication is received!

Thank you! Your submission has been received!
Oops! Something went wrong while submitting the form.

Latest Stories

All-Inclusive Resort Spotlight: Hyatt Ziva & Zilara Cap Cana (DR)

All-Inclusive Resort Spotlight: Hyatt Ziva & Zilara Cap Cana (DR)

Hyatt Ziva and Hyatt Zilara Cap Cana are two of the Dominican Republic’s most reliable all inclusive resorts, with standout food, a rare waterpark that is genuinely great, and a layout that works for families, couples, and multigenerational groups. Here is what to know about the beach, rooms, dining access, bars, activities, wellness, and service.

Destination Spotlight: Alberobello, Italy. The Fairytale Village of Trulli

Destination Spotlight: Alberobello, Italy. The Fairytale Village of Trulli

Alberobello feels like a place someone invented, then forgot to hide. Come for the trulli, stay for the slow mornings, the seriously good food, and the little moments that make Puglia feel personal.

World's Most Beautiful Places: The Amalfi Coast, Southern Italy

World's Most Beautiful Places: The Amalfi Coast, Southern Italy

The Amalfi Coast is more than a beautiful view. This guide covers how to get there, the best times to visit, where to stay in towns like Positano, Amalfi, Ravello, and Sorrento, plus must do activities, dining favorites, nightlife, and practical tips for families so the trip feels smooth from start to finish.

Family Vacation Spotlight: Adventures By Disney River Cruises

Family Vacation Spotlight: Adventures By Disney River Cruises

A family friendly way to explore Europe without the constant packing, planning, and transit stress. Adventures by Disney River Cruises pair the ease of a small river ship with storytelling, guided experiences, and true all inclusive logistics, so kids stay engaged and parents finally get to enjoy the trip too.

What I Underestimated About Visiting the Amalfi Coast (and Why You Shouldn’t)

What I Underestimated About Visiting the Amalfi Coast (and Why You Shouldn’t)

I thought I knew the Amalfi Coast after years of planning luxury trips here for clients. Then I came myself and realized how much the weather, the stairs, and the distances can still surprise you. This article shares what I underestimated and how the right planning turns a beautiful place into an effortless escape.

Where to Stay in Sorrento. My Personal Picks from Experience

Where to Stay in Sorrento. My Personal Picks from Experience

Sea view mornings, lemon groves at your doorstep, and service that remembers your name. These are my personal Sorrento picks from real stays from classic Grand Hotel Royal and Ambasciatori to relaxed De La Ville and modern Mediterraneo. Choose the one that feels like you.