Planning your dream wedding away from home? Let’s talk numbers! Whether you’re dreaming of a romantic elopement or a full-fledged destination celebration, understanding the costs involved is crucial. We’ve crunched the numbers to give you a clear picture of what to expect.
Breaking Down the Costs
The average cost of a destination or elopement wedding can range from $5,000 to $30,000. This wide range accounts for various factors such as location, guest count, and the level of luxury you desire.
Travel Costs: Getting There and Back
Travel expenses often make up a significant portion of your budget. Here’s what you might expect:
Flights: $500 – $1,000 per person
Accommodation: $200 – $500 per night
Transportation at the destination: $200 – $500
💡 Pro Tip: Consider booking your flights and accommodations in advance to take advantage of package rates if you will not be doing a contracted group room block
Vendor Fees: The Local Experts
Working with local vendors can add a special touch to your celebration. Here are some average costs:
Photographer: $2,000 – $5,000
Officiant: $300 – $500
Florist: $500 – $2,000
Hair and Makeup: $250 – $400
These are average prices and will vary based on your destination. Many resorts will charge an outside vendor fee if you choose not to use their preferred providers, and the fee can range from $800 – $1,200 per vendor.
The Hidden Gems of Savings
Off-Season Perks: Booking during the destination’s off-season can save you up to 30% on your accommodations, travel or group room block.
Package Deals: Many resorts offer standard wedding packages (with add-ons available) that can be more cost-effective than piecing everything together separately on your own.
Dual-Purpose Purchases: Your wedding attire can double as vacation wear, saving on packing and additional expenses.
💡 Pro Tip: Keep in mind that off-season in a tropical location may be in hurricane season. Ask us about options that are not normally affected by hurricanes.
Ready to Start Planning?
Every wedding is unique, and so is the budget. Want a personalized cost breakdown for your dream destination or elopement wedding? Click Here to Schedule a Free Consultation. Let’s turn your wedding dreams into reality, one budget-friendly decision at a time!