Destination Wedding Checklist: What to Do and When
From legal requirements to guest travel and timelines—your month‑by‑month destination wedding checklist.
Planning from afar? Use this month‑by‑month plan so nothing slips through the cracks.
12–10 Months
- Choose destination and climate window
- Confirm legal requirements and residency rules
- Research venues with real travel times
- Shortlist suppliers who are local or willing to travel
9–7 Months
- Secure venue + date
- Reserve room blocks and share a travel guide
- Start your budget tracker with international costs and currency buffers
- Book key suppliers: planner, photo/video, catering if not in‑house
6–4 Months
- Send official invitations with travel info (when to send wedding invitations explains the usual UK lead times)
- Confirm shipping timelines for attire and décor
- Schedule virtual tastings and walkthroughs
- Build your wedding planning timeline
3–2 Months
- Finalize guest numbers and transfers
- Confirm insurance coverage and contingency plans
- Prepare welcome bag contents (local treats + essentials)
Final Month
- Triple‑check passports/visas/permits
- Share offline copies of schedules with suppliers
- Pack a mini emergency kit for travel days
Tip: Keep everything in a single online planning hub so your partner and helpers can pitch in.
Next read: Vendor questions to ask before you book and Wedding budget tips that actually help.