Honeymoons & destination weddings

We are having a destination wedding. But when I say destination I mean QLD, not overseas. Our families and bridal party are scattered across four states, so there was never going to be a location that everyone was happy with.

Today is exactly one year till our wedding. Im not concerned about the money we are going to spend on our wedding or how much it is going to cost us, its more a concern of how much it will cost our guests to attend our wedding. And it is making me feel a little guilty.

We are doing everything we can to make it as easy as possible for guests, but the flights will still be quite expensive. We have managed to secure discounts on a great deal of accomodation, up to 40% on some and are providing our guests with access to this. We are also providing transport to the venue on the day and back again at the end of the night for all guests. And it will be an open bar. Also we are making it very clear that we do not expect gifts.

Even though we are giving our guests a years notice, I still feel a little guilty about it. Has anyone else having a destination felt like this at all? Did the feeling go away or did it make the whole thing not as much fun as it could have been?

Im even considering giving up on the wedding plans (losing $3600 in deposits) and eloping with just me, FH and our parents. But Id have to give up on my dream wedding venue. humph maybe its just a down day.

Jo x

Jojo

I would travel to Antarctica for my best friends or family, regardless of cost, and I’m sure yours will do the same without thinking about it (although there’s always one in every group)

If I was in your guests position, I would think about it as a reason to have a vacation (and in QLD – what could be better!). Just try think of it this way and ignore any haters. 

Jo

My fiance and I are in the same position and it’s causing lots of tension and arguments!  At the end of the day, it’s your special day and you have to do what you want.  Would you expect other people to change their wedding plans for you?  NO!  Those that really want to be there will make the effort! 

Heya,

In the end its your wedding day and you do what makes “you” happy.

People will cause you a lot of grief, its a given.

It was definatley the best thing we did getting married away

Hi Jo,

I’m planning a destination wedding for June 2012 and have been feeling the same thing.  I mentioned this to my future mother-in-law today and her advice was “they can always say no!”

For the most part, people are excited about having an excuse for a holiday.  In the end, it’s your wedding and it has to be special for you.  After all, how many friends’ weddings do you remember and talk about for years afterwards?

All the best