Planning
a destination wedding is quite a bit different than planning a
traditional wedding. One of the most important differences is
the
time frame that must be observed for sending the invitations.
Destination wedding invitations should be sent at least two months in
advance of the big day. Destination weddings can be a lot of fun, but
they are also complicated. Guests must have time to decide about travel
arrangements, lodging, making work arrangements, and many other
details. There are so many details that guests must attend
to. It
is only fair that potential guests have sufficient time to make the
necessary arrangements.The wording of a destination wedding invitation does not have to be much different than that of a regular invitation, though there has to be some additional information included at some point. Destination wedding invitations often include a theme of the destination. The additional travel information must include any information that is pertinent to the travel arrangements. Often, special deals have been made with hotels or airlines to take advantage of group rates or discounts. If a couple has a wedding website, it is also a good idea to put this information there.
It is a somewhat delicate matter to make sure that guests understand that they will be responsible for the cost of their own lodging. That information is not placed directly on destination wedding invitations. Often, a card is included with the invitation that lists the name of the hotel or resort where the wedding is going to be held. This information should also include the rates that are charged. This is not only most fair to the guests (they need to decide if they can afford to be there), but it also helps to cement the fact that the guest is, in fact, responsible for her or his own lodging.
Many couples who are planning a destination wedding specify that they do not expect gifts from their guests. This wording is usually not included directly on destination wedding invitations, but could be included on a separate card, on the lodging information, or otherwise specified. Destination weddings are becoming more and more popular. It is a very unique opportunity to combine a vacation trip with the big event. Couples must remember that there will naturally be far fewer people who can attend a destination wedding.