As a destination wedding and elopement photographer who prides herself on being hands-on
and playing a huge part of the wedding planning process, I’d love to share with you some of the pros and cons to having
a destination wedding vs. a traditional wedding.
Consider the following before making the big decision on how to celebrate this new chapter in your lives.
Pro: Epic views. Rad and unique photos.
Saying ‘I do’ in front of the most breath-taking and unique landscapes is such an exciting experience. What better way
to start this journey as newlyweds is there other than in a place that means so much to you both?
Con: So many rules to research
Do your research, do the leg work, make sure it’s legal and that there aren’t any special requirements or fees to getting married in the location you want. For instance, if you’re dreaming of eloping in some of the popular national parks (Yosemite, Zion, Yellowstone, etc.),
then you may have to deal with a long wait-list to get that permit
Pro: Super intimate.
Guest lists tend to be small or non-existent.
Con: Potentially cost-prohibitive for guests
Traveling may be challenging for those on your wedding list. Consider that they may have to spend on traveling to location, accommodations, covid testing… you get the idea.
Pro: Cost-saving for you.
A destination wedding may save you money depending on the location you picked and how lavish the wedding will be.
Con: Potentially not as cost-saving as you expect.
I will say this… just because you’re not having a traditional wedding celebration with 150 of your closest friends, it doesn’t mean
that eloping in Vegas or saying your vows on the most pristine Mexican beach will be that much cheaper.
Be realistic with your expectations, your budget, and most importantly: do your research!
A word of advice, ask your photographer if they are familiar with the area, and if they are (great!), then ask
if planning is a service they offer. Some destination photographers do include planning assistance in their packages, it
never hurts to ask.
If your destination photographer of choice is not familiar with your destination, then ask if they’re willing to scout with you a day before your wedding date.
I’ve had the privilege and absolute honor of photographing some of the most intimate destination elopements and micro-weddings in
Denver, Las Vegas, Captiva Island, Key West, Nashville, Tampa, South Carolina and countless more in my home territory:
Miami to West Palm Beach.
If you’re thinking of inquiring with me, I’d love to connect with you via the contact form found here:
http://www.clickinmarphoto.com/weddings
