How to plan a last-minute destination wedding: all the tips you need to know!

Planning a last-minute destination wedding? Discover tips for a seamless and unforgettable celebration!

The timeline to plan a destination wedding is often around 12-18 months, so usually it's a long and detailed process. But, sometimes life happens and calls for a spontaneous celebration abroad, which organization can be done in a short amount of time. 

If you just decided to host a destination wedding in the upcoming months, all you need to know is that it's absolutely possible. For that we have pulled together some tips on planning an unforgettable destination wedding on a tight timeline.

Lado a Lado
Lado a Lado

Be flexible with your date and location 

When it comes to planning a last-minute destination wedding in Portugal, one of the biggest factors is that you need to be flexible on the date and location. 

One thing is certain: it's important to approach a wedding venue with a date in mind, but what happens is that most locations have very limited availability for the current year. With that being said, you must be open to alternative dates rather than a fixed one. Or, you can also aim for a wedding venue that requires minimal planning and has accessible infrastructure for weddings. 

Discover some of the best wedding venues for a destination wedding in Portugal! 

Work with a local wedding planner

Hiring a local wedding planner can be a lifesaver for any destination wedding but it's highly important when you are planning a last-minute destination wedding. 

The wedding planners have a wide network, know everything about the legal requirements, and can definitely help you navigate through all the tasks you have on your to-do list to plan your dream wedding in a short period. Also, these professionals count on a long experience making dreams come true, and even with a tight timeline, they can handle the logistics and dynamics. 

I do Wedding Photo
I do Wedding Photo

Let your must-have guests know in advance 

We all have those special people that we need and want by our side on the wedding day. So, let them know you are planning a big day at short notice so they can make sure they can make it. 

Apart from that, a last-minute destination wedding will naturally reduce your guest list. For a streamlined invitation process, opt for digital invites that allow you to send updates as needed. It's also important to give your guests the best chance of securing the flights and the idyllic accommodation, so once the date is sorted get those invitations out. 

For the closest family members and friends - the must-have ones - you can also add a special touch and plan a moment to share the exciting news. 

Sort out all the legal requirements and criteria

Every country has its own legal requirements for marriage, and they can range from simple to time-consuming.

To avoid unexpected hurdles, check the marriage legal requirements in Portugal or the laws in your chosen destination as soon as possible. Some countries require a waiting period, documentation in advance, or even residency. To simplify, consider having a legal ceremony in your home country either before or after your destination wedding so you can focus solely on celebrating at your chosen location.

Quinta de Santo Antonio, Country House & Villas
Quinta de Santo Antonio, Country House & Villas

Check travel and local accommodations

As soon as a date and venue are confirmed, start checking flights to your destination and the availability of local accommodation.

To keep things easy for you and for your guests, consider working with a travel agency or booking platform. In these cases, the wedding planner you hired can also be an invaluable help for you to save time and stress. 

Take into account your non-negotiables

As mentioned previously, planning a last-minute destination wedding requires some level of flexibility, but it doesn't mean that you will not live the destination wedding of your dreams. 

It's important to think about the non-negotiables and let your wedding planner know exactly what you, as a couple, really wish for. 

Fashion Moments
Fashion Moments

A last-minute destination wedding can be magical, memorable, and far less complicated than a traditional event when approached with a flexible and open-minded attitude. By prioritizing the essentials and working with experienced professionals, you can pull off a stunning celebration that feels effortless, intimate, and uniquely yours. 

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