It doesn’t have to be elaborate, but it can be. A destination wedding is a traveling party! Think weekend in the Napa Valley, Las Vegas or New York City for a few days getaway. Consider 6 nights In Ireland, Scotland or Italy for something longer. Remember it’s a party on the road not just getting there.
If you’re thinking about Napa, plan a private wine tasting or a wine tasting itinerary with a driver to take you from cellar to cellar and throw in a couple of wonderful restaurants in the area at night. Plan accommodations where you all stay in the same place, maybe renting a house.
In New York, include a Gray Line tour or a cruise around Manhattan and make one night shine with dinner and theatre tickets.
If you’re Irish, take the whole family back to the old sod and visit the county that your family is from. Include a castle stay, a day trip to the Cliffs of Moher and a tasting (or two) at a whiskey distillery.
Or grab your best golf loving buddies and head to Scotland for a golf holiday playing Tunberry, Carnoustie and the Old Course at St. Andrews.
It’s your party so make it anything you want!
FAQ
Who pays for what? If it’s all about you, you should spring for some of it or all of it. If it’s a group celebration everyone pays for themselves.
Gifts? Usually no. If the host is paying for everything, it’s a nice idea for the others to get a small group gift. But there’s always the opportunity to buy a round of drinks, or breakfast, lunch or dinner.
Is it my highway or the highway? No. Most hosts plan “together” time and then optional activities. One large group I worked with met up for dinner every night but day activities were in smaller groups or families/couples did their own thing. EVERYBODY was happy!
Cruises are a great way to throw a big traveling bash but so is any place you want to share with your friends and family.
Tip: Hiring a local photographer to take some pictures of the whole group is a nice touch..