What Is a Destination Wedding?

What is it?

A destination wedding is a marriage ceremony hosted in a location away from the couple's hometown, requiring most guests to travel. These venues are often scenic vacation spots, like tropical beaches, historic European cities, or mountain resorts, effectively merging the wedding and honeymoon into a multi-day event for the couple and their attendees.

Why is it trending?

The trend is fueled by a desire for unique, personalized experiences over traditional, large-scale ceremonies. Social media showcases breathtaking possibilities, inspiring couples to seek photogenic and memorable settings. Post-pandemic, there's a heightened value placed on travel and intimate gatherings. For some, it can even be a more cost-effective option than a large, conventional wedding at home, as guest lists are naturally smaller.

How does it affect people?

For the couple, it offers a less stressful, extended celebration with their closest friends and family. However, it affects guests by requiring them to budget for travel, accommodation, and time off, which often leads to a more intimate guest list. The trend also significantly boosts local economies in popular destinations, supporting hotels, planners, and other tourism-related businesses.

Discover another trend: Solo Travel: A Guide to Traveling Alone