Customizing Wedding Decor: Destination Wedding Style

Planning a destination wedding is an exciting yet challenging task. Couples who want to tie the knot in a far-flung, exotic location often face the hurdle of decorating their venue as they please. While some may be content with the decor options available at the resort, others may want to add personal touches to their special day. The good news is that there are plenty of ways to customize wedding decor at a destination wedding, from enhancing the venue with lightweight accessories to creating a unique theme with color palettes and natural elements. Couples can also opt for artificial flowers, which are easy to transport and can be customized to match any wedding theme. With a bit of creativity and planning, couples can turn their dream wedding into a reality, even in a remote destination.

Choosing a theme: Tropical, rustic, bohemian, romantic, elegant, classic/traditional, vintage, or modern

Choosing a theme for your destination wedding is an important part of the planning process. It can be informed by the location, the couple's personal style, or the season. Here are some popular wedding themes to consider:

Tropical

Tropical-themed weddings are ideal for destination weddings in exotic locales, such as islands. This theme features vibrant hues, coastal decor, and exotic foliage like hibiscus, anthurium, monstera, and palm leaves. Woven elements, electric prints, coconut shells, and fruity cocktails can also be added to enhance the tropical vibe.

Rustic

Rustic weddings are defined by a simple and cozy atmosphere, often featuring natural and pared-back elements like twine, lace, and wood. Decorations may include mason jars, burlap, and birch accents. A rustic wedding can take place in a variety of settings, including barns, country fields, lakeside, or woodland areas. The color palette typically includes neutral tones, with popular combinations like blush pink, white, and green, or dusty rose, light blue, and champagne.

Bohemian

Bohemian weddings embrace a free-spirited and earthy aesthetic. They often feature natural elements, vibrant colors, and unconventional decor. Pampas grass, dried florals, macrame accents, and wooden details are commonly used. This theme is well-suited for destination weddings, especially in desert venues.

Romantic

A romantic wedding theme is perfect for celebrating love and can mirror the magic of a fairy tale. It typically includes soft color palettes, delicate lighting, and an abundance of blooms, especially roses and peonies. Romantic weddings create an intimate and whimsical atmosphere through the use of lush florals, candles, and luxe linens.

Elegant

An elegant or glamorous wedding theme exudes opulence and sophistication. It may feature crystal chandeliers, elaborate floral arrangements, silk linens, and gold details. The attire can include ball gowns or crystal-studded dresses for the bridal party. The venue could be a swanky ballroom or a regal château.

Classic/Traditional

A classic or traditional wedding is characterized by ornate floral arrangements, elegant attire, and a formal atmosphere. Guests are typically dressed in floor-length gowns and tuxedos. This theme often includes a full sit-down dinner with champagne and a multi-tiered cake.

Vintage

Vintage weddings channel the look and feel of a past decade or time period. Popular vintage themes include the Victorian era, the 1920s, and the 1970s, each with distinct fashion, decor, and music choices. Vintage stamps, antique furniture, and old-fashioned vehicles can be incorporated to enhance the theme.

Modern

A modern wedding theme embraces minimalist aesthetics, clean lines, geometric shapes, and neutral color palettes. It often features mirrored tables, white blooms, and glass elements. The venue can be decorated with twinkle lights and simple, yet stylish centerpieces.

Using lightweight accessories to enhance the decor

There are many ways to enhance your wedding decor with lightweight accessories. Here are some ideas to get you started:

Buntings and Garlands

Buntings are simple yet effective decorations that can instantly elevate the ambiance of your wedding venue. Opt for strings of pom-poms for a boho feel, polished golden flags for a glam look, or rustic burlap flags for a countryside theme. Garlands of greenery can also be draped over banquet tables, chairs, bar areas, or used to rope off reserved seating.

Paper Lanterns and Disco Balls

Add pops of color with assorted paper lanterns in various shades and shapes that match your wedding theme. Paper lanterns are lightweight, easy to install, and can be suspended from the ceiling using twine. For a fun twist, include some disco balls in your decor to add a pop of shimmer and sparkle to your celebration.

Fairy Lights and String Lights

Fairy lights and string lights are versatile and can be used in numerous ways to create a magical effect. Wrap them around trees and bushes for an outdoor wedding, or hang them like a canopy to create a stunning overhead display. For a whimsical touch, experiment with hanging strands of lights vertically to create a light curtain that will dazzle your guests.

Table Runners and Napkins

Table runners are a great way to add a touch of personality to your tablescape without taking up too much space in your luggage. Look for lightweight and easy-to-pack options that complement your wedding theme. Monogrammed velvet napkins are another elegant way to enhance your table decor while adding a personalized touch.

Flowers and Greenery

Flowers and greenery are essential elements of wedding decor. If you're looking for lightweight options, consider using dried flowers, baby's breath, or eucalyptus. You can create floral crowns, boutonnieres, or even decorate your furry ring bearer's collar with these delicate blooms. For a tropical touch, incorporate bright flowers like hibiscus, cayenne, lilies, and bird of paradise.

Lightweight Curtains and Drapery

Drapery can add softness and intimacy to your venue, especially if you're transforming a large space into a more cozy setting. Lightweight curtains can also be used to divide spaces, creating a separate area for your guests to relax and enjoy.

Shipping items: What to do and what not to do

Shipping items can be a convenient way to transport your wedding decor to your destination wedding, but it's not without its potential pitfalls. Here are some things to keep in mind when deciding whether to ship your wedding decor or carry it with you on the plane:

What to do:

• If you decide to ship your decor, do it well in advance of your wedding. This will give you some leeway if your items get delayed or lost in transit.
• Compare the costs of shipping your decor to the additional baggage fees you may incur if you bring your decor on the plane.
• If you're shipping to a destination within your own country, use a tracked service to monitor the progress of your items.
• If you're bringing items in your luggage, maximise the space by rolling your clothes, using vacuum seal bags, and stuffing shoes with smaller items.
• Pack liquids in zip-lock bags to avoid leaks, and place them on top of your other items so they're easily accessible.
• If you're bringing your wedding dress, carry it on with you. Don't check it in, and consider using a garment bag to keep it safe.
• If you're bringing fragile items, wrap them in clothes or towels to protect them.
• If you're shipping to a country with customs duties, check their website to find out which items are exempt from personal luggage duties.
• If you're shipping to a country where you don't speak the language, have a letter prepared in the local language explaining that the items are for your wedding.

What not to do:

• Don't ship anything that's absolutely essential to your wedding. There's always a risk that items could get lost, damaged, or stuck in customs.
• Don't try to bring liquids that exceed the airline's restrictions.
• Don't bring anything that you'll need to pay additional fees for, like oversized or overweight items.
• Don't forget to bring itemised receipts and proof of your wedding, in case customs officials ask for them.
• Don't pack your wedding dress in a checked bag. Always carry it on with you to avoid the risk of it getting lost.
• Don't forget to ask your hotel or resort what items they already provide. You may be able to save space by not bringing things that are already available to you at your destination.

The role of an on-site wedding planner

On-site wedding planners are often hired to provide support and guidance throughout the entire planning process, not just on the wedding day. They can help with creating and managing budgets, selecting vendors, designing the overall aesthetic, and offering creative solutions to bring the couple's vision to life.

One of the key advantages of hiring an on-site wedding planner is their expertise and connections in the industry. They can help you navigate the complexities of planning a destination wedding, including language barriers, time zone differences, and local customs. They also have experience dealing with cultural differences and can offer valuable advice on blending traditional and modern elements to create a unique and memorable event.

On-site wedding planners can also assist with travel arrangements for the couple and their guests, providing recommendations and helping to secure accommodations and transportation. They serve as a dedicated point of contact and can be especially helpful in coordinating the many moving parts of a destination wedding.

Additionally, on-site wedding planners are skilled at creating contingency plans and managing unexpected challenges. They can provide valuable guidance on legal requirements, permits, and marriage license requirements, ensuring that all the necessary details are in order.

The cost of hiring an on-site wedding planner can vary depending on the services provided, the location, and the number of guests. It is important to discuss the planning needs and budget with the planner to tailor their services accordingly.

Creative ways to pack decor items

Planning a destination wedding is an exciting yet challenging task. The good news is that you can enhance your wedding décor with lightweight, compact, and easy-to-carry accessories from home. Here are some creative ways to pack décor items for your special day:

Pack with Precision:

• Create a detailed checklist of décor items and start packing a few weeks in advance. This ensures you don't forget anything important and helps you stay organized.
• Utilize vacuum seal storage bags to maximize space and free up room in your luggage.
• Roll up your clothes instead of folding them, and make use of every nook and cranny in your suitcase.
• Place socks and underwear inside shoes to save space.
• Use lightweight, foldable bags to carry décor items, which can be left behind at the destination if needed.

Protect the Essentials:

• Carry your wedding gown, veil, shoes, and other essential items with you. Don't check them in, to avoid loss or damage.
• Ask your dress retailer for advice on how to pack your gown, and consider using a garment bag.
• Avoid shipping important items, as they may get lost or delayed.

Smart Packing Strategies:

• Compare prices and fees for décor items at the resort versus bringing your own. Sometimes, an extra checked bag may be cheaper than resort fees.
• Use your bridesmaids' flowers as centerpieces to save space and money.
• Opt for artificial flowers, which are customizable, cost-effective, and easy to manage.
• Use lightweight and versatile décor items such as buntings, paper lanterns, fairy lights, and table runners, which add a lot of impact without taking up much space.
• Choose unconventional guest book alternatives, such as a shadow box or photo jigsaw puzzle, which serve as both mementos and stylish décor items.

Final Touches:

• Add personal touches with photos of you and your fiancé, or late relatives, which are easily packable and meaningful.
• Use ribbons as versatile décor accessories – tie them on chairs, incorporate them into your wedding cake design, or use them in the ceremony backdrop.
• Enhance blank walls with easy-to-transport tapestries, customized with your names, wedding date, or theme.

Remember to be mindful of local customs and regulations, and always double-check luggage restrictions when traveling to your dream destination wedding!

Frequently asked questions