How to create a budget around your all-inclusive destination wedding
Whether you are purchasing a home, buying a car, or planning a wedding, it’s best to start out by making a budget. Not that you have to pinpoint it to the penny, but knowing a price range or at least a maximum amount you can spend is beneficial.
Although, budgeting for a destination wedding can be a bit of a mystery. All-inclusive upgrades, travel costs, and wedding attire all need to be considered. To help you formulate a budget and think about all of the possibilities, we’ve got you covered with our destination wedding all-inclusive cost breakdown.
What does the average destination wedding cost?
Factors such as location, guest count, and upgrades will highly impact your budget. For example, having a destination wedding in your neighboring state will most likely be less expensive than flying to the Italian countryside for your event. A luxury wedding with 80 people will also cost more than an intimate affair with ten guests.
That being said, according to an article on Brides, the average cost of a destination wedding currently hovers around $35,000. The Knot confirms these findings with an estimated average in the $32,000 - $38,500 range, including an engagement ring. And again, that’s an average. Whether you want to spend $12k or $200k, it’s doable, but there are some considerations to be made.
What is included in an all-inclusive destination wedding package?
Once you fall in love with a location and choose a venue, the on-site planners will brief you on their particular inclusions. Of course, each destination will differ, but some standards fit across the board.
Standard venue rentals typically include both the ceremony and reception sites.
Other rentals, such as chairs, tables, linens, flatware, china, and glassware, are part of the package price.
Many locations provide a planning team, which doesn’t necessarily equal a wedding planner. The venue’s planners usually arrange everything that has to do with the site. However, extras—such as a photographer or makeup artist—are up to you to secure, although they can typically make recommendations.
Catering for your reception, which often will include bar service and a cocktail hour with hors d’oeuvres, is also a part of many packages.
Other venues have special add-ons, which are considered perks to having a destination wedding in a specific location. Many locations and resorts want to spoil their couples, so including a few extras is always enticing.
Uplighting for your ceremony or reception
Honeymoon suite with extras, such as breakfast in your room
Helping to prepare marriage documents, such as a license
Providing pre-recorded music and a dance floor
In-room massages or spa discounts
Other Things to Include in a Destination Wedding Budget
Unfortunately, some big-ticket items aren’t included in an all-inclusive destination wedding package. Although when you think about it, it really makes sense so that each couple can express their individual tastes.
If you would like to have a dedicated wedding planner that’s not associated with the venue, include it in your budget. You may be able to scale back your package since your location will coordinate most of your day.
You are on your own for wedding attire, which you can purchase or arrange from your hometown. This also includes hair and makeup artists, shoes, and accessories.
Because photographers vary significantly in price and style, most packages leave it up to the couple to decide who to work with to capture their day.
Very few destinations include flowers and decor, so this is especially important to factor into your budget.
If you want any extras, such as a live band, wedding favors, or a violinist for your ceremony, you will need to secure them on your own.
Travel costs and accommodations can come at a high price depending on where you hold your wedding—even if you are only paying for you and your spouse-to-be.
Welcome bags and thank you gifts can make your guests feel more at home upon arrival.
Many all-inclusive packages include base items, so if you choose to upgrade your meal or table linens, that may come at a cost.
Beyond being able to use the beach, pool, or hiking trails, you will have to plan to pay for outside activities for you and your partner. You can even treat your guests to experiences, such as catamaran rides and snorkeling adventures. However, you may be able to secure a group rate depending on your guest count.
Of course, if you provide a rehearsal dinner, farewell brunch, or welcome cocktail for your guests, you will need to plan that into your budget.
Any legal fees for a license or visa are also up to the couple, as is the cost of a wedding officiant, although some locations can provide someone to officiate.
Pros (and Cons) of Using an All-Inclusive Package
Pros
Going with a preset package can significantly ease a couple’s mind, especially if they are unfamiliar with the area and don’t have time to visit beforehand. An all-inclusive package can help check major items off of your list. Inclusives also help plan a budget that you can stick with easily, although you may be able to shave a little off your cost by going a la carte instead.
Another perk is that the planning team at the venue is most likely highly experienced. Not only can site planners work with their team effortlessly, but they also can make vendor recommendations for services they don’t provide. They know their location best and can help you orchestrate the most lovely day possible.
Cons
My point about sticking with your budget with all-inclusives may prove difficult if you consistently make choices that are considered upgrades. Going with better quality meat or luxury flatware will increase your per-person cost, whereas upgrading the music or lighting will be a flat fee.
Another con is that you may not want your wedding to look like every other event that has happened at that location. Some venues can fall into the trap of cookie-cutter weddings, and if you crave something unique, going with an all-inclusive may not be the ideal option. Also, you are somewhat at a loss if you don’t jive with your specified planner or don’t care for any of the flatware options.
So, are you ready to plan your destination wedding? My Passport to Paradise planning guide is a great place to begin, and The Ultimate Wedding Destination Budget Worksheet can help you stay on track financially. Whether you choose all-inclusive or a la carte, your dream day is all about you and your partner, and my resources are here to help that happen. Happy planning!
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.
