From “Yes!” to “I Do!”: The Destination Wedding Planning Timeline Couples Need to Know

Destination weddings are exciting and magical—but they also come with a unique set of planning steps that couples don’t always anticipate. As destination wedding travel advisors, we’ve seen it all—panicked couples who waited too long to send invites, and overwhelmed brides trying to juggle travel documents and guest bookings in the final weeks. That’s where a clear planning timeline comes in. Whether you have 12 months or less, this month-by-month destination wedding planning timeline will help you stay organized, calm, and totally in control from start to finish.

Your Ultimate Destination Wedding Planning Timeline

This timeline follows the exact steps I guide my clients through, with real-time tips to make your planning feel effortless.

15–13 Months Before

• Set Your Wedding Vision Start with the big picture. Do you dream of a toes-in-the-sand ceremony or a romantic garden overlooking the ocean? Get clear on your wedding vibe before diving into the details.

• Establish Your Budget & Guest List Your guest count will directly affect travel costs, room availability, and vendor packages. Knowing your numbers early helps prevent surprise expenses later.

• Narrow Down Destinations & Resorts Based on your style, budget, and guest list, I’ll help you shortlist the best-fit destinations and resort venues for your celebration. This includes understanding travel time, seasonal weather, and group perks.

• Consult with a Destination Wedding Travel Advisor (Me!) This is your moment to get expert support. I’ll guide you through the decision-making process and help match you with a destination that fits your vision—and your guests’ needs.

12–10 Months Before

• Secure Your Wedding Date with the Resort Once you've chosen your venue, we’ll officially reserve your wedding date and ceremony time with the on-site coordinator. The earlier, the better—especially for in-demand dates.

• Set Up Your Group Room Block This guarantees room availability for your guests and locks in the best pricing. I’ll handle the group contract, payment schedule, and guest booking details so you don’t have to.

• Send Out Save-the-DatesTime to let your guests know what’s coming! Include your wedding website, travel dates, resort info, and booking instructions. This helps everyone plan ahead and get excited about your big day.

9–8 Months Before

• Plan a Pre-Wedding Site Visit (Optional) If your schedule and budget allow, visiting the resort ahead of time is a great way to meet the on-site team and see the property in person.

• Launch or Update Your Wedding Website This is where guests can find travel info, RSVP details, and your full wedding itinerary. I can help you create one or provide a group booking page through my travel supplier.

• Begin Gown Shopping & Register for Gifts Some dresses require multiple fittings, and registry planning takes time—start now so you’re not rushing later.

6–5 Months Before

• Finalize Ceremony Type & Legal Requirements If you’re having a legal ceremony, now’s the time to submit documents and confirm translation or residency requirements. I’ll help you navigate what’s needed based on the country.

• Book Group Excursions or Activities Think about ways to enhance the experience—like a welcome sunset cruise, beach bonfire, or spa day. I’ll coordinate these extras with the resort or local vendors.

• Encourage Guest Bookings Remind your guests to reserve their rooms before space fills up. Most room blocks come with a deadline for deposits and final payments.

• Order Your Dress and Bridal Party Attire Be sure to give yourself and your bridesmaids time for alterations.

4 Months Before

• Mail Formal Invitations Now that RSVPs are coming in, your invitations should reflect the full details: ceremony time, dress code, itinerary, and a reminder to book rooms if they haven’t yet.

• Groomsmen Tux/Suit Rentals or Purchases Give the guys enough time to get fitted and make selections.

• Reconfirm Guest Bookings & Room Block Status We’ll check in to see which guests have booked and help you manage any unused room releases if your contract requires it.

3–2 Months Before

• Confirm Officiant & Ceremony Logistics Coordinate with your resort or local officiant. If you're writing your own vows, now’s a great time to begin.

• Build Your Wedding Itinerary From welcome cocktails to a farewell brunch, sketch out the full timeline of events. I’ll help format this into something guests can easily follow.

• Start Your Seating Chart Once most RSVPs are in, begin arranging your reception layout and guest placements.

• Follow Up with Any Late RSVPs

6–3 Weeks Before

• Finalize Wedding Details You’ll work directly with the on-site coordinator to lock in décor, menu, cake, flowers, and music selections.

• Write Your Vows & Finalize Ceremony Script

• Review All Guest Flight Itineraries I’ll collect flight details from your guests to coordinate airport transfers and flag any mismatches with their room reservations.

2 Weeks Before

• Submit Final Guest Count to the Resort

• Send Travel Tips & Itineraries to GuestsI Provide a custom guide for your guests that includes packing suggestions, shuttle information, tipping guidance, emergency contacts, and more.

• Update Your Website with the Final Itinerary

1 Week Before

• Pack for the Wedding & Honeymoon Don’t forget your dress, accessories, printed vows, emergency kit, and all the small-but-important details like chargers and hairpins.

• Reconfirm Vendor Meetings You'll likely meet with your on-site coordinator, officiant, and other vendors 2–3 days before the wedding to walk through everything.

3–4 Days Before the Wedding

• Arrive at the Resort Settle in, relax, and finalize any last-minute details. Enjoy a few moments of peace before the celebration kicks off.

Pro Tip:

Even with this timeline in hand, working with a destination wedding travel advisor ensures every moving part is coordinated—so you can actually enjoy the journey, not just survive it.

Planning a destination wedding doesn’t have to feel overwhelming, especially when you’ve got the right timeline (and the right travel expert) on your side. If you’re ready to take the next step, I’d love to chat about your wedding vision and help you bring it to life.

👉Schedule a free consultation here:

Start Planning

Join Our Exclusive Facebook Group