Deciding you're going to have a destination wedding may take a lot of consideration, but really it's only the first step on your journey!

There's so much to start planning — like where it's going to be when it's going to be, and most importantly, how much it's going to cost!

Fortunately, I'm here to give you some insider tips that will help make things easier for you when considering all your options.

Tip #1: Don't be afraid to put your foot down when it comes to YOUR wedding

Why is this important? Well — it will help keep you sane, for starters. I know it's easy to want to please everyone, and often family members try to pull you in different directions saying you should do this or that — but at the end of the day, this is your day! You can't be afraid to ask them (nicely!) to be quiet and let you take a breath of fresh air. 

You'll feel much happier with whatever destination you choose because you know it's what's right for you!

Tip #2: Be adaptable

As well as you may try to plan every single aspect of the wedding, at the end of the day, you have to know that things are going to change, weather may come up, or people may have trouble getting to a location.

All of that is ok! If you're adaptable, you can get through any obstacle and ensure your destination wedding is still magical and perfect.

And besides, that's part of the excitement of a destination wedding, to begin with: it's an adventure with your spouse-to-be!

Tip #3: Make a plan

Think about all the different things you could possibly want in a destination wedding location. Think about your own personalities — what kind of a location speaks your language? Think about your budget — how much would you want this to cost in an ideal scenario. Think about whether you want an all-inclusive resort or a pay-as-you-go resort.

All this and more can be written down, and then you can use that list to work with your travel/wedding planning expert to create a short list!

Lastly, Look at Time of Year

We got married in August like most b-ball coaches do lol! but looking at dates is very important. When you are looking at Mexico and the Caribbean specifically there are seasons that will affect cost and weather. Peak season using runs from December to April. Shoulder season hits late April to June. Then there is low-season with the greatest chance of hurricanes ( but again not a cloud in sight at mine wink! wink!) That season runs from July to right before Thanksgiving.

Want more tips?

Check out the live session we hosted for more detail on the tips highlighted above, AND find some more exclusive tips you'll want to consider!

Courtnie is the founder & CEO of TravelBash. After years as an ambitious fundraiser, she took her passion for travel full-time. She has lived all over the U.S. and abroad and after planning her own destination wedding, she decided to help other couples plan their big day abroad too. She has written “Passport to Paradise: The Complete Destination Wedding Guide,” a top seller on Amazon. She has also been featured in Travel + Leisure, Destination I Do and The Washington Post. As a certified travel advisor, expert event planner and natural connector, she uses her powers to create VIP travel experiences.