Kick starting the journey of planning a destination wedding from afar is like setting off on an exciting adventure filled with anticipation and pure joy! In this series, we’re your trusty companions here to guide you through the exhilarating the role of local vendors in planning your destination wedding. Picture the world as your playground, and we’re about to explore it together. Our main focus? The delightful art of teaming up with local vendors, those wonderful folks who will help turn your wedding dreams into a reality. What’s special is that many of them you’ll get to meet for the very first time on your joyous big day. So, let’s jump into this thrilling adventure of planning your dream destination wedding with a warm smile and all the confidence in the world!
Step 1: The Essentials
Preparing for your dream destination wedding is an exciting journey, but before you dive into the intricate details, it’s essential to build a solid foundation. This foundation will serve as the cornerstone of your wedding planning, ensuring that everything falls seamlessly into place. In this initial phase, we’ll guide you through the crucial steps of setting the stage for your unforgettable day. Start by establishing:
- Your budget and any flexibility you have.
- Your chosen date.
- Your destination.
- An approximate guest count (if you plan to invite guests).
- A list of desired wedding vendors, including a photographer, wedding celebrant, hair and makeup artist, florist, and cake designer. Having your venue booked is helpful but not mandatory
Step 2: Crafting Your Vision
To find the perfect local vendors, having a clear vision is key. Create a wedding mood board to bring your ideas to life. Incorporate inspiring images that resonate with your desired wedding aesthetic. These images don’t necessarily need to be wedding-related; they should convey the atmosphere you wish to create. Think of it as painting a picture with colors, textures, and vibes.
Platforms like Canva and Pinterest are fantastic tools for creating mood boards. If you choose Pinterest, consider organizing your images into categories like flowers, decor, cake, and more. Additionally, create a separate section as your overall mood board, showcasing your favorite images from each category. This organized approach will streamline communication with vendors as your planning progresses.
Step 3: Local Vendor Search
Now that you’ve set the stage, it’s time to start searching for your dream vendors. Here’s how:
- Begin with a Google search using destination-specific keywords, such as “destination wedding photographer in Bali” or “Indian wedding celebrant.”
- Explore Instagram using relevant hashtags like #destinationweddingeurope, #elopementitaly, or #parismakeupartist.
- After compiling a list of potential vendors, take the time to research each one thoroughly. Visit their websites and social media profiles to gauge your initial impressions. Does their work align with your vision? Check for reviews on platforms like Google or Facebook, or testimonials on their website.
- Narrow down your list to a select few (around 3-4) vendors per category who truly resonate with your style and preferences.
Step 4: Reaching Out
Now, it’s time to initiate contact with potential wedding vendors. When sending your first email, provide them with essential information to help them assess if they’re the right fit for your wedding. Here’s a customizable email template:
If you’re reaching out to planners, photographers, or celebrants, you can inquire about scheduling a virtual meeting. For designers like cake designers or florists, consider attaching your mood board to enhance communication.
Sharing Your Vision with Vendors
Once you’ve secured your dream vendors, shared your vision, and signed contracts, it’s time to dive into the details. Here are some tailored insights for specific vendors:
HAIR AND MAKEUP ARTIST : Ask if a virtual trial is possible, or provide photos of your hair and face along with preferences.
FLORIST: Send inspirational images of bouquets, centerpieces, or decor you adore. Specify your favorite flowers, dislikes, allergies, and bouquet style.
CAKE DESIGNER: Share images of wedding cakes you love, and specify details like flavor, tier count, shape, and any allergies. Discuss the possibility of using real flowers on the cake.
PHOTOGRAPHER: Discuss your preferences for getting ready photos, detail shots, and share any specific shots that are important to you. Share your guest list and any inspirational photo ideas.
And Voila! Here you are, armed with the knowledge of setting a strong foundation, crafting your vision, conducting your local vendor search, and reaching out to potential wedding vendors. You’ve taken the initial steps towards creating a wedding that’s uniquely yours, filled with all the elements that make your love story extraordinary.
As you continue on this path, remember that each detail, each vendor, and each decision is a brushstroke on the canvas of your love story. With effective communication and unwavering enthusiasm, you’re well-equipped to navigate the intricacies of planning a destination wedding from afar.
So go ahead, embrace this thrilling adventure with a warm smile and the confidence that your dream destination wedding is not just a destination; it’s a journey filled with beautiful moments waiting to be cherished for a lifetime. Happy wedding planning!
