Here’s your go-to guide for planning the ultimate destination wedding Lifestyle News

Start with a clear plan and budget

Indian weddings are known for their grandeur and multi-day celebrations. Bahrami advises planning a year ahead to handle complications like guest logistics, rituals and costs. A well-organized plan ensures that you can:

• Book the top spots early: Popular places like Udaipur Palace or Bali resorts are booked years in advance.
• Save on seasonal deals: Off-season rates can make a luxury venue affordable.
• Account for hidden costs: Include factors such as travel for vendors, import fees for decorations, and local transportation for guests.

Choose the best destination

Indian couples often look for destinations that offer rich cultural experiences or romantic backdrops. Here are some popular options:

India

• Goa: Perfect for a relaxing beach celebration. Consider locations in South Goa for specialty.
• Rajasthan: Like Kiara Advani and Priyanka Chopra, Udaipur, Jodhpur and Jaipur offer heritage palaces for grand celebrations.
• Kerala: For an intimate wedding, Kerala’s backwaters or hill stations like Munnar offer stunning views.

Like Kiara Advani and Priyanka Chopra, Udaipur, Jodhpur and Jaipur offer heritage palaces for grand celebrations (File)

International

• crop: Known for its tropical beauty, it is a favorite for small, private ceremonies.
• Italy: Indian couples prefer the vineyards of Tuscany or the luxurious villas of Lake Como, like Anushka Sharma and Deepika Padukone, for a dreamy setting.
• Dubai: Its proximity to India makes it ideal for extravagant weddings in prestigious hotels.

Legal and ritual considerations

Many Indian couples want to integrate traditional rituals into destination weddings, which require more preparation. Bahrami highlights its importance:

• Understanding the legal requirements: For example, Italy needs Nulla Osta Certificates, and certain beach destinations require permits.
• Counseling Priests: Make sure your chosen priest or officiant can travel to the location or check if local options are available.
• Customs Respect: In international locations, align rituals with local regulations, such as fire ceremonies in non-permitted areas.

Guest logistics management

Destination weddings often require well-organized guest management, Bahrami said. Consider these tips:

• Group Travel Arrangements: Work with travel agents to book chartered flights or block hotel rooms.
• Welcome Kits: Provide guests with essentials such as travel itineraries, local guides, and sunscreen for beach weddings.
• Virtual Attendance Options: For those who can’t make the trip, set up live streaming of the ceremonies.

Whether it’s a royal affair in Udaipur or an intimate ceremony in Santorini, destination weddings offer Indian couples a chance to blend traditional celebrations with a unique setting. Careful planning and expert guidance ensure a celebration that is as stress-free as it is memorable.