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Unlike tying the knot traditionally at your neighborhood church, destination weddings are quite different, dynamic, and difficult, especially in the planning process.
Whether figuring out who’s on the guest list, finding local vendors, or understanding international marriage laws, it can become quite a hectic ordeal.
While the initial days are full of planning, create a wedding schedule that allows fun activities and keeps everyone’s spirits high, even for those dealing with jet lag.
We’re here to help you explore some fascinating yet luxurious wedding activities that will have everyone in awe and smiling ear-to-ear.
Why Should You Host Wedding Activities?
Choosing a wedding destination doesn’t end by simply selecting a location and hosting a grand event. Since you’re taking the time and effort to travel to a new location, you should also set aside a schedule for bringing fun into the picture. That’s where wedding activities come in.
You can think about it this way – all your guests are from different walks of your life considering some are family, others are friends, and a few might be coworkers. What better way than to host activities that include everyone and bring the whole party together?
Overall, such activities are a great way to ensure your wedding guests stay connected and get a chance to bond. Plus, it’ll also make for some amazing, cherishable memories.
8 Luxurious Activities For Destination Weddings
Everyone wants an exceptional wedding experience, especially if you’re traveling miles away from home to celebrate your big day.
So, we’ve curated a perfect list of activities to elevate your destination wedding by showing you and your guests an incredible time.
- Local Tour
No matter what country you choose for your destination wedding, where’s the fun if you don’t immerse in the culture and understand its traditions? So, take this opportunity to explore the region’s flavors, music, local activities, art, and so much more.
You can schedule group classes with locals and introduce your guests to the essence that attracts you to choose this special place. Considering it a place you love, you’ll also be helping out the local economy while giving yourself and your guests a unique experience.
- Boat Excursion
Everyone gets excited about a boat adventure, so put on your bathing suits, sail out into the horizon, and take in salty sea air on a luxurious private yacht charter. You can give your guests the chance to sightsee the dreamy location while also getting a taste of the glamorous luxe living.
Enjoy your getaway on the water by popping open a bubbly one while nibbling on exquisite entrees and enjoying a breathtaking view. Depending on the number of people, hire an appropriately sized yacht so everyone’s comfortable; your guests will be in awe of this surprise.
- Get Adventurous
Awaken everyone’s adventurous bone and explore the great outdoors. Based on the destination you choose and the popular activities of the area, you’ll have many options: hot air balloon rides, paintball games, go-karting races, and so much more
If you love the thrill of life and want to get some adrenaline pumping, you can take it a step further with more daredevil activities. Book a safari trip, take a hike on a volcano, go rock climbing or ziplining, or ski through the mountains, but just ensure that safety checks are given top priority.
- Spiritual Release
Get all your guests in a great mood before the wedding by going on a spiritual journey with the country. For example, if you’re in Tulum, take a group meditation or yoga class to shake off all the stress from your travels. You can also explore local or shamanic rituals for an immersive experience.
Apart from that you can also just let everyone’s minds and bodies relax by hosting a spa day. Pull everyone together and call it a day by giving yourselves a pampering session. Mud baths, facials, massages, body wraps, aromatherapy, and more; the choices are endless. Plus, it also helps you get rid of any wedding day nerves that creep in.
- Light Up The Sky
Whether you host a welcome part in the evening or choose to have a sunset wedding, as long as you’ve planned something for the night, a firework display will pair perfectly with the dark sky; this not only offers an outwardly visual spectacle but also sets quite the romantic tone for your celebrations.
If you want to go the eco-friendly route, you get the same magical experience with a sky lantern release. Once everyone releases their lanterns, it’s a beautiful display of floating lights especially once they’re up high. Plus, releasing these lanterns symbolizes well wishes and good luck.
- Beach Day
If you’re tying the knot in a tropical country, you have to bring out the towels, throw on a bikini, and bask in the sun’s warm embrace. So, plan a beach day with your guests for a refreshing activity and rustic fun.
Of course, don’t just sit on blankets and sunbathe all day; mix and mingle with your guests and do something sporty like surfing, snorkeling, diving, or kayaking. You can also host a barbecue and have a bonfire sunset where everyone can eat, drink, and party!
- Wine Tasting
You can’t deny that wine tasting is hands down one of the most sophisticated yet relaxing group activities out there. As you savor the reds and whites, you unwind in nature’s arms with a stroll to the vineyard or even have fun with some grape threading.
Some wineries also offer exclusive packages that give you a guided tour of their estate; and take in the magnificent landscape. You might even get a chance to explore their cellars and learn about the wine-making process.
- Post-Wedding Brunch
While rehearsal dinner and welcome parties are quite popular, you can host a post-wedding brunch for one last hurrah with your friends and family. You can have your venue arrange this for you since some even include it in their wedding packages.
If you have a favorite restaurant, book a few tables or the entire area if it’s a small and cozy place. You can also have a beachside brunch but in picnic style by heading to the beach with some blankets and picnic snacks.
Non-Negotiable Destination Wedding Checklist
While destination weddings are a phenomenal experience, its also undoubtedly one of the most stressful situations considering the whole international affair.
So, here’s a comprehensive checklist to keep you on track and avoid unwanted surprises:
- Always work out a budget for your wedding items and travel expenses but also keep some contingency money aside.
- Ensure to check everyone’s passports and travel visas thoroughly before booking anything so you don’t have to leave anyone behind.
- Don’t forget to check the season or weather conditions of the country you choose. In case it’s unpredictable conditions, always have a backup plan especially if your party is outdoors.
- Pack all the essentials like appropriate garments, medication, sanitary products, personal items, and important documents.
- Marriage licensing varies from country to country in terms of medical tests, waiting periods, fees, etc. Check the country’s tourism website for more details.
- Booking a travel agent can help you find the exact location that fits your vision and budget, especially if the agency specializes in destination weddings.
- While you might be tempted to DIY the wedding, it’s better to hire a planner because you’ll need a seasoned professional with experience in international events to get better rates and run things smoothly.
To Conclude
With that said, you’re well-equipped with all you need to explore the numerous activities you and your guests can indulge in for your destination. Since you’re already in a different location and in vacation mode, have a lot of fun and make the most of these special moments.