Planning a destination wedding can be REALLY exciting but you must dot all the 'i's' & cross all 't's' to ensure it runs perfectly!

First step
Map out your budget & STICK to it. Destination weddings can be deceptively more expensive than booking at home so include everything no matter how insignificant in your budget spreadsheet.

Friends and family
I know they can drive you mad but you don want them at your wedding - don't you? Do either of you have elderly parents or grandparents who would have a difficult time with long-distance travel? Friends or family who might not be able to swing a four-star hotel in Maui? Rather than inadvertently excluding loved ones from sharing your big day, explore the various ways that you can accommodate them.

Save the date
Be sure to send a save the date card well in advance so your guests can plan ahead and get the best deals on airfare and hotel reservations.

Do your homework - it will pay off in the end!
Scout out locales and venues. Get brochures, and also seek recent recommendations from couples who have married at a resort or other venue before you.

Take a tour - SO Important!
Visit a resort or other venue at least once before you book it for your wedding day.

Extra help - at least consider it....
Hire a wedding coordinator in the destination where you plan to marry. Give your coordinator images of bouquets, cakes and anything else that will help him/her find vendors that will suit your style.

Group rate
If you invite more than ten guests, negotiate hotel rates.

Health watch
Look into immunisations if you're traveling to an exotic location e.g. Tropical Medical Bureau

Foreign language
Try and learn some of the basic local language if you're going overseas. The natives will appreciate the fact that you've made the effort & you'll also feel a little more confident.

Purchase luggage
If you're traveling to a fabulous shopping destination, include a spare bag to home all your fab new gear & pressies of course!

Passport check
Make sure that your passport and/or visa haven't expired.

Cash - If you’re travelling overseas, purchase a couple of hundred euro in foreign currency before you depart.

Editor: We wish we were going with you :)

&nbs