50 tips for planning the perfect destination wedding

50 Tips for Your Perfect Destination Wedding; in Destin, Panama City Beach, Seaside, WaterColor, Alys Beach, 30A, or the Alabama Coast.
By Haley Gregg & Will Estell

1. Discuss and be clear on your “Perfect day” vision. Sit down with your fiancé and talk about your ideas for your destination wedding. Cover as many details as you can: small or large, formal or casual, indoors or out, reception theme. Discuss it all before writing any checks or booking any vendors or venues.

2. Find your style before you book a single vendor appointment or make wedding related purchases. Browse through magazines of all types. Fashion, home décor, travel, and especially destination wedding magazines, such as Gulf Coast Bride and Southern Dream Weddings that focus on your chosen geographical area. All of these are great for generating ideas about how you really want your wedding and reception to look.

3. Establish a budget and stick closely to it. No matter how much you might want it all most brides have a budget to work within. By deciding ahead of time what you- or your families- can spend it will be much easier for you to enter planner or vendor negotiations with a clearer picture of what you want, what you can get and how much of anything and everything is realistic. Remember that there are many levels of destination weddings available-especially on the Florida, Alabama and Mississippi Gulf Coast- so it is possible to have your cake and eat it too.

4. Dare to be different by making your celebration stand out from all those cookie-cutter weddings you've been to? Think “outside the box”. Personalization can be a very important aspect of your special day. This could mean anything from incorporating family or ethnic traditions into your ceremony, to having your bridesmaids choose their own dresses, to making your favorite pet a part of the wedding or reception. Your own imagination is the limit here.

5. Study the personality of your site. Many venues or locations that are near each other can still vary greatly, be sure to take a good look around yours and visualize just what you think will make it all come together in your chosen place. Spend time looking through Gulf Coast Bride and other magazines that emphasize destination weddings. You can also get a lot of good feedback by consulting web sites such as travelocity.com, epinions.com, discoverfla.com, and others that will enable you to read real opinions and feedback about the area and service providers you are looking at.

6. Enlist the help of a professional wedding planner if at all possible. Can you plan a small wedding without one? Sure, but you probably won’t save as much money as you think, and you certainly won’t save the headache. Do you really want to trust the most important day of your life to amateurs? Remember, you only get one chance to make this perfect.

7. When at all possible, meet with your service providers ahead of time and in person. Even if you trust them completely this will still give you peace-of-mind and insure that everything goes smoother in your communication up to, and through the big day.

8. Check out your hotel, resort, beach house or condo ahead of time. Not just on the web but really talk to someone there and make sure that you are really getting what you think. If you are choosing a beachfront house, condo or other accommodation based on a pool, ocean view or amenities that you saw in an ad or on a website, make sure that is exactly what you are getting. Remember that “luxury” or “near the beach” doesn’t mean the same to everyone!

9. Ask the resort or accommodation vendor(s) you are considering what extras they offer with your stay. Many resorts and condo rental companies from Destin to Panama City Beach to Orange Beach offer free perks such as golf, fishing charters and other fun activities for those who book with them.

10. Ask your Wedding Planner or officiant what you will need in order to get your marriage license and where and when to get it. In most counties along the Gulf Coast it is quite easy, but make sure you plan ahead for ample time to take care of this during business hours a day or two before the ceremony. The good news is that Florida nor Alabama require the often dreaded premarriage license blood test.

11. Make sure you have a “Plan B” for rain or nasty weather. This is especially important if you are planning your wedding on the beach or your reception outdoors. Most people don’t think they need this…until they really do. Some resorts and many tent companies along the Gulf Coast provide emergency back up rental plans andlax, because taking a few minutes to read and are well worth your looking into.

12. Ask for and utilize the suggestions of your service providers. Professionals at a venue can often recommend a florist, caterer, limo company or photographer, and vice versa. Remember these people do this for a living and often know who you can count on to make your dream wedding the one that you really dream of.

13. When dealing with any and all vendors make sure you are crystal clear on all associated costs, conditions, deposits, due dates, refund policies and terms ahead of time. Have it all in writing and when in doubt always ask for clarification in written detail.

14. Choose a photographer carefully. Ask questions and make sure you really “click” with the professional you choose. Everyone doesn’t get along well with everyone so get a feel for what he or she can do creative wise, price wise and time wise…then base your final decision on how comfortable you feel around the photographer as a person. Certain brides simply mesh better with certain photographers and the outcome shows in the final product.

15. When blocking out rooms at a resort or hotel ask that you be able to cancel unfilled rooms up to three weeks before the arrival date. Otherwise you may be stuck paying the tab for guests that find they are unable to make the trip. Lucky for you some of the best resort rental companies on the planet are advertisers within the pages of Gulf Coast Bride and come highly recommended by myself, this magazine, and the many brides who have utilized their services. Stick with these and you will be fine. Also be sure when calling to mention that you found them within the pages of Gulf Coast Bride magazine.

16. Remember to use the leverage of all the guest rooms that you will be filling in order to get your best rate. Some resorts and rental companies will even negotiate a greatly discounted or complimentary room for the bride, when a number of other rooms are reserved.

17. Help out your single guests by arranging for them to share rooms with other singles who will also be attending. By setting this up for them you will normally see a better turnout and insure a more relaxed environment for singles. If you are each staying in a regular room leading up to your big day, remember to book a suite for the two of you for your wedding night.

18. Arrange to drive or fly in two to three days early to make sure everything is just right, and to cut down on the stress of dealing with anything that isn’t ready at the last minute.

19. Arrange a central meeting place for your guests to “drop by” when they first arrive. This is usually the day before the wedding. This could be a hotel or resort lobby or in some cases couples even rent a designated room simply for their friends and family members to mingle and visit.

20. Do some research ahead of time on area attractions and activities that your guests may enjoy along the Gulf Coast. Anything from Dolphin Cruises, to Silver Sands or Foley outlet malls, to a night out at Baytowne Wharf is a good idea. This will enable you to make suggestions that will help your family and friends to have the most fun without spending so much time searching for the “hot spots”.

21. Leave a gift basket and a note in your guests’ rooms to let them know how much it means to you that they took the time and effort to grace your special day with their presence.

22. If possible, plan for at least one group event that you can pay for. Normally this is in addition to the wedding reception, but can be the rehearsal dinner (if you have one) or some other get together from a pool-side barbeque to a nice dinner cruise on the Solaris.

23. If you have a rehearsal dinner the night before your wedding day, plan to invite not only the wedding party, but any guests who have traveled to the Gulf Coast to share in your day. If they have made the investment to be there, they deserve to be invited to the rehearsal dinner.

24. Plan a “guys day” outing and a “girls day” outing, then consider a joint night out where all of your friends can simply chill and have some fun together…with you and your future husband. The Gulf Coast is full of wonderful golf courses, great fishing, delightful shopping and top-notch nightlife so this should be easy to plan and fun to host.

25. Make sure your reception is something that most any of your guests will enjoy. Try to have music for everyone (DJ’s and island themed musicians are normally great for this) from the teens to the grandparents. Also make sure that if you do have a bar, you also have plenty of non-alcoholic beverages for those who had rather not drink.

26. Be safe and keep the prenuptial activities a little slower paced. If either of you plan on bungee jumping or parasailing save it for after the big day. The last thing you want is a sprained ankle or broken leg on your wedding day.

27. Don’t over schedule. Have fun and get out and do things, but give yourself time to relax some too. You want to be rested and vibrant on this most important of dates.

28. Pre-wedding jitters, unfortunately everyone gets them. It’s the moment were your forced to look forward into your future and face the reality of married life. When this hits just look back and remember the first time you kissed, and all the wonderful memories you both share. This is the beginning of something good.

29. Keep a journal or notepad with you; this way if you have a light bulb go off in your head you will be able to write that great idea down instead of forgetting it in a matter of minutes.

30. Plan wedding speeches. At many receptions the best man and groom give speeches, so make sure you prepare in advance. Also, we encourage brides to jump in and speak to the crowd. It is a perfect opportunity to share lovely words about your husband and personally thank your guest – don’t miss this opportunity.

31. Take care of your wedding dress. Preserve your dress so it stays in perfect condition for your wedding day. Avoid applying makeup while wearing your dress, and don’t drink red wine or anything that stains while in or near your dress.

32. Ask for a tasting and try to customize your cakes. Be sure to ask about cake preparation times – nobody wants an old or late cake. Also, don’t forget to discuss delivery and set up.

33. Once you choose a hair stylist and makeup artist make sure you bring a picture or example of what you are looking for, and it’s a very good idea to practice once or twice before your big day. Ask for waterproof mascara – you never know when the tears might start flowing.

34. Make a wedding checklist – this should be a detailed list of what you’ve bought and what you need to buy. This will also serve as a timeline of where you need to be and the time of your appointments. Also, make a timeline for your reception - how long it should take for pictures, what time the guest should be seated and when the first dance should begin.

35. Don’t be afraid to ask friends and family for help in regards to planning, flower choices, gown selections and decorations. Most of these people will be honored and excited to be a part of this.

36. Buy a memory album. This is one item you will never regret spending your money on. This will be something that will last forever, and will become a special book to look at on every anniversary. Hopefully for many, many years!

37. Say your own vows; this can be scary, but it makes it where you can say what’s on your heart. This will ultimately make your wedding ceremony more meaningful and unique, both for you and your guests.

38. Invest in some bridal flops or sneakers. This may sound funny, but if you plan on dancing and you are wearing heels for the ceremony, you’ll be glad you have these backups, to get your groove on.

39. Don’t forget mom; the father-daughter dance is always a must when the reception starts, but don’t forget about mom. That means yours and his.

40. Don’t be afraid to do something different with the standing order. Instead of having the minister face the congregation, have him stand with his back to them, so friends and family can see your faces.

41. Make sure your guests have access to restrooms during the ceremony and reception. This means knowing where the close ones are…even at the beach.

42. Consider using microphones for you and your groom. There is nothing worse than going to a wedding and not being able to hear anything. Choose the safe route and add microphones to your checklist if your guest list or venue is large.

43. If you’re having your wedding or reception outside, make sure the site is sprayed for mosquitoes, ants, gnats and fleas. Wouldn’t have thought of that one would you? Well, until it was too late.

44. Don’t forget the wedding favors. This is a timeless tradition that lets your guests know that you appreciate their attendance. Edible wedding favors are always well-received and help pass the time before your ceremony starts.

45. Make sure your guests are comfortable. Don’t leave your guests melting in the hot sun. Provide cold bottled water, fans with your name and wedding date, and consider putting a tent up to block the sun’s rays. Maybe consider having your wedding at sunset. That way it will not be so hot and the scenery will be unbeatable.

46. Offer an online R.S.V.P – this will give your guest options, and let’s face it, most people had rather go online than pick up the phone and call. Make sure your R.S.V.P date is well ahead of when you, your planner, and caterer really need to have a final headcount because some people will sign on late.

47. Have your honeymoon fully planned well in advance. This way the stress is off you and it’s one more thing that you don’t have to worry about while planning your wedding. Besides you will likely get the best deals if you book well in advance.

48. Ask your caterer about the availability of children’s plates. This is a great way to cut cost and most kids would rather have chicken fingers than prime rib anyway.

49. Don’t over schedule. Have fun and get out and do things, but give yourself time to relax some too. You want to be rested and vibrant on this most important of dates.

50. And, last but not least. Make a grand exit. Running out in a shower of sparklers is fine…but think about something really cool. Something a bit more unique and personal to you. How about whisking away in a jet boat with “Just Married” plastered on the back? Flying off in a helicopter is always a winner, as is speeding off in a classic car or riding away on a custom chopper…you get the point. Now start planning and have fun! •

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A Word from our Publisher

Destination Beach Weddings in Destin, Panama City Beach, Seaside, WaterColor, 30A, Orange Beach. Gulf Coast Bride is Your Source for Planning Your Wedding on the Gulf Coast.

Everything You Need to Plan Your Perfect Destination Beach Wedding.
From Destin; Panama City Beach; Seaside; WaterColor; 30A.com to Fort Walton; Pensacola, and Orange Beach...You will find it all in the pages of
Gulf Coast Bride magazine each and every issue.

From Destin, Florida to Seaside, Florida -all along Northwest Florida's infamous 30a- from Panama City Beach, Florida, Pensacola, Florida, or over to Orange Beach and Gulf Shores, Alabama, Gulf Coast Bride magazine and gcbride.com serve as a bride's single best method of learning about and planning her upcoming Florida or Alabama gulf coast wedding.

Gulf Coast Bride magazine is your "one Stop Shop" for accessing the best of the best in beach accommodations, venues, beach wedding photographers, catering companies, florists, beach wedding planners, cake designers, resorts, restaurants, entertainment companies, tent rentals, even limo's and transportation to and from the wedding and associated events. Anything and everything you will need for your upcoming Gulf Coast or Emerald Coast beach wedding you can find in the pages of Gulf Coast Bride magazine. Best of all, brides coming to Destin, Seaside, The Beaches of South Walton, 30A, Panama City Beach, Pensacola, Orange Beach, and Gulf Shores, Alabama can find Gulf Coast Bride magazine on major newsstands in over 30 states across the USA.

So whether you live in Dallas, TX or Atlanta, GA, Booneville, MS or Madison, WI you -the bride- can pick up your copy of Gulf Coast Bride magazine and begin planning your perfect gulf coast or emerald coast wedding right from the comfort of your home. Best of all, be assured that the advertisers who make up Gulf Coast Bride are some of the very best known and well respected resorts, wedding planners, caterers, photographers, videographers, florists, and entertainers on the entire gulf and emerald coast. In addition you will find the editorial content, photos, real brides, real weddings, and feature resort and venue articles to be very helpful in planning your upcoming gulf coast wedding...just as the thousands of brides to be who purchase and use Gulf Coast Bride magazine, each and every quarterly issue, have discovered.

Who knows we may just show up to cover your upcoming Gulf Coast destination wedding.

Julie Skinner, Editor-in-Chief
Gulf Coast Bride magazine

Will Estell, VP. Publisher Jeff Borrelli, Pres. CEO
3G Media, LLC. 3G Media, LLC.