Weddings abroad are a common Western trend that is successfully taking root in Russia. Organizing a full-fledged celebration in our country is only becoming more expensive, and no one is thinking of giving up a honeymoon. So why not combine the two into one event that’s colorful and unique? If you’re ready to say “I Do” by the ocean, use this list of tips for planning your ceremony.
1. Select the country where the celebration will take place
It seems that this is the easiest and most enjoyable part of organizing a wedding abroad, but before you give preference to one country or another, you should think about this:
- Distance to venue
Your choice is one of the exotic islands in the Pacific Ocean? This is great, but will all the guests be able to withstand the long flight? And the financial aspect of the idea has not been canceled. - Interior
Your dream ceremony should start in an ancient castle on top of a cliff and end with a wedding on the seashore? Make sure there is a country on the world map that suits all your needs. - Cultural aspect
Do thorough research to find out whether your customary wedding rituals are acceptable in your chosen country. It is possible that some of them may be unacceptable for religious reasons. - Security issue
High crime rates and tense political situations in some countries are a good reason to think twice when planning a wedding abroad. - Legality of marriage registration
If this, at first glance, obvious aspect escapes your attention, you risk returning from the trip not just single, but completely free from a relationship. There are many nuances in the laws of different countries. For example, in France you will have to live at least 40 days before you can walk down the aisle.
2. Make a list of all necessary documents
As soon as you choose a location for the ceremony, you should immediately start collecting the necessary papers. Their set varies depending on the requirements of the authorities. In some cases, you may need a certificate of no obstacles to the upcoming marriage, in others – a copy of the birth certificate. In short, take the issue seriously and prepare a spacious folder for collecting documents. Also, don’t lose sight of the visa issue and make sure that your passports do not expire in the next 6 months.
3. Choose the right season
During national holidays and major festivals, the demand for flights and hotel accommodation increases sharply, and with it the cost of organizing a wedding. Try to plan your celebration so that it does not fall during one of the peak tourist periods. Weather conditions are also an important factor. Getting married in September in Santorini will be remembered for many years as a fairy tale. If you make a choice in favor of the Caribbean in the same month, you will only have to remember the rainy season and thwarted plans.
4. Decide who is responsible for the organization
As a rule, you have to choose from three options:
- preparation of the ceremony as an additional package of services of your tour operator;
- local wedding planner;
- independent organization.
Your choice is one of the exotic islands in the Pacific Ocean? This is great, but will all the guests be able to withstand a long flight? And the financial aspect of the idea has not been canceled.
5. Plan your flight
The success of the ceremony largely depends on how safely you manage to get to the place. Therefore, think in advance about how you will transport your wedding dress. Many airlines allow you to take it on board as carry-on baggage, but this will likely incur an additional fee. In addition, you should buy a good bag for the dress in advance, in which you can hang or fold it. If you do have to check it in as luggage, mark your wedding outfit as a fragile item.
When booking tickets, leave yourself at least 48 hours before the ceremony to recover from jet lag and discuss final details with the organizer on site.
6. Purchase special insurance
A wedding abroad is one time when you should pay special attention to travel insurance packages. It is a good idea to provide financial protection for your wedding dress, ring and gifts if they are lost or stolen for any reason. Read the fine print for details to avoid additional fees.
7. Think over a plan for transitioning the wedding ceremony into the honeymoon
Since you’re already abroad, your honeymoon is technically open. Plan all the details in advance: make hotel reservations and make a list of attractions and islands for your first trip as newlyweds.
Source: Rough Guides
