Say “I Do” in Paradise: The Ultimate Guide to Planning a Destination Wedding
Curated By
Amanda Schneider
Curator’s statement
Planning a wedding is exciting—but planning a destination wedding? That’s where the magic truly begins. I planned my own destination wedding and now have the privilege of helping couples do the same every year. From exchanging vows under an Italian sunset to celebrating on the beaches of Mexico or in the jungles of Costa Rica, destination weddings turn dreams into once-in-a-lifetime experiences. I love helping couples bring their vision to life and making the entire journey seamless, joyful, and unforgettable.
The Fora Difference
Book with Amanda to access exclusive perks and experiences on your trip.
Killer perks
Free upgrades, spa credits and more—we got you
Personalized recs
Customized travel planning for your style
Insider knowledge
Expert advice from people who’ve actually been there
Where to stay
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Things to do
1. Welcome parties & rehearsal dinners
A chance to greet your guests with a festive welcome—think beachside cocktail parties in Mexico, vineyard dinners in Tuscany, or sunset cruises in Santorini.
2. Group excursions
Create shared memories beyond the wedding day—snorkeling in the Caribbean, a private boat tour of Lake Como, or an ATV jungle adventure in Costa Rica.
3. Cultural experiences
Help guests connect with the destination. Cooking classes in Italy, tequila tastings in Mexico, or traditional dance performances in Greece.
4. Spa & wellness
Encourage relaxation with group spa days, yoga classes, or wellness rituals to help guests unwind before and after the wedding.
5. Private tours for guests
Arrange curated tours—city walking tours, archaeological site visits, wine tastings, or scenic drives so guests can explore at their pace.
6. Romantic honeymoon moments
For the couple—private beach dinners, couples massages, or sunrise photo shoots to extend the magic beyond the wedding day.
7. Family-friendly activities
If guests are bringing kids—kid-friendly resort programming, wildlife tours, or beach games ensure everyone is included and entertained.
8. Post-wedding brunches
Wrap up the wedding weekend with a farewell brunch: a relaxed, joyful way to send guests off and savor the last moments together.
9. Scenic photo sessions
Work with local photographers to capture candid moments—beyond just the ceremony—to fully showcase the beauty of your destination.
10. VIP airport transfers
I help arrange seamless, comfortable transfers for the couple and guests—making sure everyone arrives and departs with ease.
Places to eat & drink
1. Beachfront restaurants (Mexico & Caribbean)
Perfect for welcome dinners or casual meals with friends—toes in the sand, fresh seafood, and sunset views.
2. Rooftop bars (Italy & Greece)
Ideal for a pre-wedding cocktail hour or an after-party. Sip spritzes or champagne with panoramic city or sea views.
3. Farm-to-table restaurants (Costa Rica)
A great option for rehearsal dinners or farewell brunches—fresh, local ingredients served in stunning natural settings.
4. Traditional taverns (Greece)
Perfect for an authentic, relaxed meal with guests. Think family-style dining with local wines, grilled meats, and meze.
5. Elegant villas & private chefs (Italy)
For couples seeking a more intimate wedding dinner or private event. Many Italian villas offer on-site chefs who create personalized menus.
6. Luxury resort restaurants (Mexico, Caribbean, Costa Rica)
Many top resorts where weddings are hosted feature Michelin-starred or award-winning dining—excellent for romantic dinners or VIP guest experiences.
7. Wine bars (Italy & Greece)
Charming spots for small-group wine tastings or a casual pre-wedding gathering.
8. Craft cocktail lounges (Mexico & Caribbean)
Trendy spots for a fun night out with the wedding party—mixology-driven menus and stylish ambiance.
9. Oceanview brunch cafés (Costa Rica & Caribbean)
Casual, scenic brunch spots. Perfect for post-wedding recovery meals with family and friends.
10. Local market eateries (Italy, Greece, Costa Rica)
For adventurous eaters. Explore local flavors and street food with guests during downtime between wedding events.
Need to know
Planning a destination wedding involves more than choosing a beautiful location—it’s about creating an entire experience for the couple and their guests. That’s where I come in. I manage all travel logistics for the couple and their guests, secure room blocks with perks and upgrades, and coordinate seamless transportation—so no one is left figuring things out on their own. I also work closely with the wedding planner and venue team to ensure everything runs smoothly, from pre-wedding events to post-wedding farewells.
Tips:
Book your wedding date and room block early—top venues fill quickly!
Keep your guests in the loop with personalized travel information (which I provide!).
Build in downtime and optional activities so guests can enjoy the destination.
Think about the flow of the full wedding weekend—I can help plan welcome events, excursions, and farewell brunches.
Rely on me to navigate the complexities of group travel, so you can stay focused on what matters most—celebrating with your loved ones.
Whether you’re dreaming of a beach wedding in Mexico, a villa wedding in Italy, or a cliffside ceremony in Greece, I handle the details so you can soak up every magical moment.
Travel Advisor
Amanda Schneider
Get in touch with Amanda
Did you like this guide? Reach out to customize and book your own experience. Or, just to chat about travel in general.
You can expect a response from Amanda within 1–2 business days. You’ll also be subscribed to our traveler newsletter (you can unsubscribe at any time).
For more inspiration and insider recommendations, visit our Destination Weddings page.