Destination weddings are not only beautiful and fun but also surprisingly budget-friendly. Many people have the misconception that getting married at a luxurious resort in a tropical paradise would be exorbitantly expensive. However, the reality is quite the opposite.
Contrary to popular belief, destination weddings are a much cheaper option compared to domestic weddings. While the average cost of a domestic wedding is around $34,000, destination weddings can cost as little as $7,804. This significant difference is mainly due to the larger guest list in domestic weddings, where couples have to pay per person for food and drink. With a destination wedding, couples only need to worry about the flat package price, which is typically very affordable.
So, let's break down the pricing of a destination wedding and discover what you can expect to pay.
What Couples Pay: A Breakdown for Destination Wedding Prices
There are a few main expenses that couples should anticipate when planning a destination wedding. These include airfare, accommodations, and the wedding venue and package.
Airfare
On average, couples can expect to spend around $1,206 per couple on airfare. Since destination weddings are held far away from the hometown, travel expenses can be a significant portion of the budget. However, one advantage is that couples don't have to worry about traveling for their honeymoon separately.
Accommodations
With couples typically staying for an average of five nights with guests, plus a few extra nights in an upgraded room category, the cost for accommodations is around $1,973 per couple. By securing a room block well in advance, couples can often benefit from lower rates. All-inclusive resorts also offer special amenities and romantic touches for an enhanced experience.
Wedding Packages
It is recommended that couples allocate 50 percent of their wedding budget for the venue itself, regardless of whether it's a domestic or a destination wedding. The advantage of a destination wedding venue, especially at an all-inclusive resort, is that it includes more than just the ceremony space. Basic inclusions such as the ceremony set-up, cocktail hours, wedding flowers, and more are often covered. The average cost of a wedding package is $4,625 per couple.
What Guests Can Expect to Pay
Destination weddings are all about creating intimate experiences with closest friends and family. On average, around 30 guests attend a destination wedding. While the couple covers the major expenses, guests should be prepared to pay for their own airfare and accommodations.
The cost for guests typically amounts to around $2,316, depending on the location, resort type, and travel timing. Guests usually stay for 5-6 nights and consistently rave about the incredible experience they had.
Some couples may consider paying for a few loved ones, such as parents or grandparents, but it is not expected for all guests. In such cases, couples often opt out of a wedding registry and communicate that their presence is the most important gift.
Caption: Breathtaking Wedding Venues in Punta Cana
All-Inclusive Pricing Perks
Booking an all-inclusive package offers numerous benefits when planning a dream wedding. By arranging travel as a large group, resorts often provide discounted rates for 10 or more booked rooms.
Aside from significant cost savings, all-inclusive packages come with exciting extras like spa credits, reduced rates on excursions, and sometimes even free wedding packages. The package usually includes everything from the ceremony set-up and the officiant to bouquets/boutonnieres, cocktail hour, reception, and more. The wedding couple can also expect special treatments and surprises, such as complimentary massages, mimosa breakfasts, candlelit dinners on the beach, and plenty of champagne.
Once on the resort property, both the couple and their guests can enjoy a stress-free environment and indulge in a wide array of amenities and activities. With food and drink costs already covered, everyone can relax and make the most of their time in paradise.
Additional Costs to Consider
While all-inclusive resorts offer a plethora of activities and services, it's important to recognize that some add-on costs may apply. Spa treatments are typically not included in the all-inclusive package, as they are considered additional luxury services. Similarly, excursions may require separate fees, as they are often organized by local companies that have partnerships with the resorts. Remember to tip your servers, either daily or at the end of your stay, as a gesture of appreciation for their excellent service.
In Conclusion
Destination weddings can be as expensive or budget-friendly as you desire. The beauty of a destination wedding lies in the ability to have everything you want and more, which may not be readily available for a domestic wedding. Moreover, the idyllic setting of a tropical paradise creates an unparalleled experience for everyone involved.
To ensure a seamless and unforgettable destination wedding, our Certified Destination Wedding Specialists are here to assist you. They possess extensive knowledge and expertise, helping you find the perfect package, venue, and travel specifications that suit your preferences. Best of all, their services are complimentary, and they work hard to secure the best deals for your dream day.
Are you ready to start planning? Click here for your free consultation now!
