When planning your wedding, you’ll face dozens of decisions—daytime or evening? Summer or winter? Chicken or fish? But one of the biggest choices of all is where to have your big day. Should you host a local celebration or plan a destination wedding?

While destination weddings are dreamy, they also come with unique challenges. The truth is, there are pros and cons to both options, and the best choice depends on your personality, budget, and vision for your wedding day.

If you’re asking yourself, “Should I have a destination wedding?” here are 8 important things to think about before you decide.

1. Destination Wedding Costs

Budget is often the first question couples ask when exploring a destination wedding. While you’ll still need to pay for essentials like the venue, catering, flowers, music, and photography, the costs can vary depending on location.

For example, saying “I do” on a beach or in the mountains might save money on décor and rentals, but you’ll also need to consider flights, hotel stays, passports, visas, and other travel expenses.

Tip: Use flight trackers, consider off-season dates, and send invitations early so your guests can plan and save.

2. A Truly Unique Setting

One of the biggest perks of a destination wedding is the unforgettable backdrop. Whether you’re exchanging vows on a Hawaiian beach, inside a medieval church in Europe, or in front of the Rocky Mountains, the environment itself adds magic to your big day.

Your location becomes part of your love story — and your guests will remember it forever.

3. Comfort Zone Challenges

Planning a wedding away from home means giving up some of your usual conveniences. From finding reliable vendors (florists, DJs, caterers) to navigating local customs, you’ll need to be prepared for surprises.

Pro tip: Don’t settle for the “resort package.” If possible, bring trusted vendors with you — like your photographer or hair stylist — to avoid last-minute stress.

4. Guest List Size

A destination wedding usually means fewer guests. While that might sound disappointing at first, many couples find it’s a blessing in disguise. With a smaller guest list, you’ll share your day with only your closest friends and family, creating a more intimate celebration.

Plus, the multi-day format gives everyone more time to bond and celebrate together.

5. Travel Challenges for Guests

Not every loved one will be able to attend your destination wedding. Travel costs, time off work, health concerns, and childcare can all create barriers.

If having certain guests (like grandparents) at your wedding is a must, a local celebration may be a better fit. But if you’re okay with a smaller group, a destination wedding might be the perfect choice.

6. Built-In Honeymoon

One huge benefit of a destination wedding is that your honeymoon starts immediately. Instead of flying out the day after your wedding, you’re already there—relaxed and ready to enjoy.

Just remember: some friends and family may extend their stay too. If you want private honeymoon time, consider switching resorts or “hopping islands” after the wedding.

7. Travel Stress Is Real

Weddings are stressful enough without delayed flights or lost luggage. Traveling with wedding attire and essentials adds another layer of pressure.

Be sure to pack key items—like your wedding dress—in a carry-on. Plan your arrival a few days early to adjust to jet lag and troubleshoot any last-minute issues.

8. Picture-Perfect Photos

If stunning wedding photography is high on your list, a destination wedding offers endless possibilities. Whether it’s ocean waves, snowy mountains, or historic city streets, the scenery can make your photos look straight out of a magazine.

That said, beautiful wedding photography isn’t limited to exotic locations. A local venue, like a greenhouse, vineyard, or hometown hilltop, can be just as breathtaking when it reflects your love story.

Final Thoughts: Is a Destination Wedding Right for You?

At the end of the day, your wedding will be one of the most meaningful moments of your life—whether it’s in your hometown or halfway across the globe. A destination wedding offers unique experiences, unforgettable backdrops, and a built-in honeymoon, but it also requires more planning, flexibility, and travel.

Think about your budget, your guest list, and what matters most to you. Whether you choose a tropical beach, a European castle, or your own backyard, the important part is that you’ll be marrying your favorite person—surrounded by the people who mean the most.