Whether you are planning a big wedding bash at home or a luxury wedding abroad, chances are you’ll be doing most of the work from afar. No matter how big or small, that distance can make the planning process a bit more complicated (to say the least). With everything from your venue to the planner to vendors, it’s obvious you’d prefer to vet them all in person – so when you are located far away, there are some additional hurdles you’ll need to be ready to jump. A fantastic destination wedding planner can help make it all a little easier, so let’s get started!

1. Hire a Planner

If you’re doing it right, planning a wedding from afar can be just as seamless as planning one on your own stomping grounds – you just need an accomplished wedding planner. Select someone who knows what questions to ask and which potential hiccups could arise. A great planner will be able to guide you through the process and build relationships with vendors that, in turn, will benefit you. An effective local planner will be able to go to their vendors to ensure an effortless celebration.

2. Arrange a Comprehensive Visit

There are a few things you should do in person, namely touring your venue and meeting with your caterer, florist, and tent company. Spend a weekend at your destination and take the time to walk the space, have a discussion (or even a tasting!) with your caterer, and review design ideas with your planner and florist. Finally, schedule a site visit 30 days out to conclude any important details.

3. Find Flexible Vendors

Find vendors that can work remotely and who have flexible schedules. If you are visiting you wedding destination from a different time zone, vendors who only have regular hours during the week are not likely to fit your schedule requirements, especially since most of your meetings will be conducted on FaceTime, Skype, or Hangouts.

4. Book Early

If you know that you’ll be traveling for your wedding, start looking at hotel rooms as soon as you’ve chosen a destination. There have been instances where clients have put down deposits on a venue, only to realize that there weren’t enough hotel rooms available. By booking out rooms immediately, you’ll know you’ve got space for your guests to make the trip and enjoy the weekend.

5. In-Person Test

While you can do most of the planning long-distance, there are a few things you must do face-to-face. For example, hair and makeup trials. Having someone work on your hair and makeup is so personal. A trial allows you to give feedback and adjust the plan based on the results – things only you can do. Even if that means having a trial the day before your wedding – it’s worth it to spend time with your stylist in person.

On tastings: Obviously, this is a very important aspect of your wedding, so it is best if you can attend it in person, and if not, be able to send someone you trust to do it in your place.

Forever Events specializes in Luxury Wedding and Event Planning in Miami, FL.  Contact us today to start planning your dream destination wedding. Visit the Forever Events blog for tips on wedding planning, corporate event planning, luxury wedding design, and more.