What Are Destination Weddings? Everything You Need to Know in 2024
You’ve probably been invited to a friend’s wedding in Mexico or a celebration abroad this year. Whether you went or not, you’ve likely wondered: what’s the hype with destination weddings, and why are they such a big deal?
Well, destination weddings aren’t just a passing trend—they’re a full-on phenomenon, and for good reason! Each year, around 350,000 U.S. couples choose to have a destination wedding, making up about 25% of all weddings in the country. And get this—half of those are international! So if the idea of a destination wedding has caught your interest, you’re not alone.
As travel experts who’ve been in the industry for a while, we’ve kept a close eye on how trends have evolved, especially post-COVID.. What’s new in 2024? In this guide, we’re diving into everything you need to know about destination weddings this year—from what they are, to common concerns, and the 2024 travel trends you should consider when planning your big day abroad.
What is a Destination Wedding?
A destination wedding is essentially a better way of saying, “Hey, let’s get married somewhere beautiful and turn it into a mini-vacation!” If you’re traveling more than two hours by car and need to book a hotel for a night or two, congratulations—you’ve got a destination wedding! It’s not just about tying the knot; it’s about doing it in a place that’s a little out of the ordinary, whether it’s a beach, a charming little town, or maybe even a spot that’s been on your bucket list for a while. And the best part? You get to mix wedding fun with a getaway in a dream destination, and so do your guests.
Why Go For a Destination Wedding Over a Hometown Wedding?
When planning your big day, the choice between a local, hometown wedding and a destination wedding can be a tough one. But there are some pretty great reasons why more couples are saying “I do” away from home:
You Get To Turn Your Wedding Into a Travel Adventure
Who doesn’t love a good excuse to travel? With a destination wedding, your big day becomes so much more than just a ceremony—it turns into a full-blown travel adventure with your closest friends and family. No matter where you’ve chosen to go, a destination wedding lets you combine your special day with a vacation. You can explore new places, visit museums, go hiking, or simply relax and enjoy the scenery. If you love to travel, getting married abroad is a no-brainer—it’s a total win-win!
You Can Enjoy a Smaller, More Intimate Guest List
One of the best perks of a destination wedding is that it naturally leads to a smaller guest list. Not everyone can take the time off work or afford the cost of traveling to a far-off location, and if you’re covering the costs, you probably want to spend that money on the people who matter most. You’ll end up celebrating with the guests who are truly excited to be there—those willing to hop on a plane for you! This means your big day is more intimate, more personal, and less about making small talk with your mom’s co-worker. Plus, with a smaller crowd, you can spend more quality time with your guests and really soak in the moment.
That said, we’ve noticed a trend post-COVID where guest lists are actually getting larger, even for destination weddings. For example, our client in September has 78 guests attending, and another couple next April just broke 100! So while small guest lists are common, don’t be surprised if more people want to join in on your big day—after all, everyone’s ready to travel and celebrate after years of lockdowns.
You Can Get Married in Stunning Venues
Forget the local church or banquet hall—how about getting married on a cliff overlooking the ocean or in a vineyard surrounded by rolling hills? Destination weddings give you the chance to choose a venue that truly represents you. You’ll find so many stunning locations and accommodations that your wedding will feel more like a wellness retreat or an adventure escape, rather than just a ceremony.
And while beach weddings have long been a favorite, there’s a new trend on the rise. More and more couples are opting for unique locales that go beyond the traditional beach setting. Think jungles, forests, cooler climates, and cultural cities—these are becoming the new hotspots for destination weddings.
It’s an Escape From Your Daily Routine
Let’s be honest—getting married in the same spots where you’ve attended countless other weddings can feel a bit…routine. A destination wedding is your chance to break free from the ordinary! It’s a great way to escape the usual stress of wedding planning and experience something new and exciting. Plus, it’s also the perfect excuse to take a well-deserved break from your daily routine.
There are so many reasons why couples choose to get married abroad, and we totally get it. But we also know there might be a few lingering doubts or concerns. Don’t worry—we’re here to help you figure out if a destination wedding is right for you.
Destination Wedding Fears and Objections We Commonly Hear
We’ve heard just about every objection to destination weddings out there, and honestly, it all comes down to what you want. Here are some of the most common concerns we’ve heard from couples in 2024:
“It’s Too Much of a Financial Commitment”
Surprise! Destination weddings can actually be more affordable than traditional weddings. How? Let’s break it down:
Smaller Guest List = Lower Costs: With fewer guests, you’re spending less on food, drinks, and seating.
Built-In Honeymoon: Why pay for a separate honeymoon when you’re already in paradise? Double up and save!
Less Pressure to Go All Out: The beauty of a destination wedding is the setting itself, so you can keep things simple and still have a stunning wedding.
Exchange Rate Benefits: Choose a destination where your dollar goes further, and you could end up saving even more.
All-Inclusive Packages: Many destinations offer bundled deals that can save you a ton compared to booking everything separately.
That said, we’re noticing a recent trend where more and more couples are spending similarly to what they would have back home. Why? Because they’re opting out of standard packages and instead, choosing to make their event truly unique and personalized.
And if you’re worried about your guests, remember: you don’t have to foot the bill for everyone. Just cover your VIPs, or do what fits your budget—it’s your wedding, after all! Plus, a recent 2024 study shows that 27% of Americans are investing more in luxury travel experiences this year, so your guests might be more willing to splurge on that business class ticket or fancy hotel than you think. Everyone’s itching to travel post-COVID, so why not make your wedding the vacation they’ve been craving?
P.S. Wondering where to save and where to splurge for your destination wedding? We’ve got some tips for you right here.
“I’m Afraid Not All My Guests Can Make It”
Before you even commit to a destination wedding, you have to accept that not everyone will be able to make it. Some guests might not be able to take the time off, some might not afford the trip, and others might have responsibilities like kids or pets. It’s important to understand that people have their own lives and can’t always drop everything for your big day. It’s also a good idea to listen to any concerns your guests might have about attending a destination wedding.
To make it easier for those who can come, consider covering costs for your VIPs if possible. Organize activities to enhance their experience, and prepare welcome bags as a thoughtful touch. Choosing an all-inclusive, guest-friendly venue can also make a big difference. Ultimately, 80% of Americans say they’d go the extra mile for a best friend’s wedding, so your closest loved ones will likely be there to celebrate with you 💗.
Here are the biggest and most common barriers for guests attending a destination wedding:
“The Planning Process Seems Like Too Much Work”
That’s where we come in! And don’t forget your wedding team—on-site coordinators, vendors, and wedding planners are all there to help make your dream destination wedding a reality. They’re pros at handling the details, so you can focus on enjoying the experience. Give us a call and we can help out here 💅.
Ready To Plan Your Destination Wedding?
So, there you have it—everything you need to know about destination weddings in 2024. With travel booming, there’s no better time to tap into that excitement and create a wedding experience that you’ll remember for the rest of your life!
Whether you’re dreaming of a lush, nature-filled escape, a wellness-focused retreat, or a classic beachy celebration (a favorite for 60% of people asked in a recent study), the key is to choose a destination that reflects your style and personality.
As you begin your destination wedding journey, keep in mind that people are craving fresh air, scenic views, and relaxation—trends that perfectly align with a fun celebration! Start planning early, stay flexible, and embrace the adventure that comes with saying “I do” in a stunning location. And remember, we’re here to help every step of the way. For more inspiration, check out our blog—we often post hot spots we’ve personally visited! If you’re short on time, read our top 2024 picks here.
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.
