How to Plan a Destination Wedding on a Budget
- Dale Gallant
- 3 days ago
- 4 min read
by Destination Weddings with Globetrot
Planning a destination wedding doesn’t mean you need to break the bank. In fact, with the right strategy, you can say “I do” in paradise without blowing your budget. From choosing affordable wedding destinations to taking advantage of all-inclusive resort packages, this guide will walk you through how to plan a destination wedding on a budget—without compromising the experience.
💍 Why Choose a Destination Wedding?
A destination wedding offers a once-in-a-lifetime experience not just for the couple, but for their guests as well. It combines a wedding and a vacation into one—often at a lower cost than a traditional local wedding.
With all-inclusive packages, group travel discounts, and a smaller guest list, many couples discover that a budget-friendly destination wedding is not only possible but smart.
📍 Step 1: Choose an Affordable Destination
Not all locations are created equal when it comes to cost. Some countries offer incredible value for weddings, especially when resorts bundle ceremonies, receptions, and lodging.
Top budget-friendly destination wedding locations:
Mexico: Offers affordable all-inclusive wedding packages in Riviera Maya, Cancun, and Puerto Vallarta.
Dominican Republic: Punta Cana is a hotspot for cheap beach weddings with luxurious backdrops.
Jamaica: Great for both small weddings and group travel discounts.
Costa Rica: Ideal for eco-friendly weddings with nature-rich settings.
Cuba: One of the best-kept secrets for couples on a tight budget.
When searching online, use terms like “cheap destination wedding packages” and “low-cost tropical wedding venues” to find the best options.
💸 Step 2: Set Your Destination Wedding Budget
Before you book anything, establish a budget. This helps prioritize your spending and avoid surprises later.
Key areas to include:
Wedding package (ceremony + extras)
Flights and accommodations
Legal or symbolic ceremony fees
Decor, photo, and video
Guest experiences (excursions, welcome dinner)
Use a destination wedding budget breakdown template to keep everything organized.
🏝️ Step 3: Pick an All-Inclusive Resort Wedding Package
One of the best ways to plan a destination wedding on a budget is to choose an all-inclusive resort that offers wedding packages. Many resorts include:
Wedding planner
Ceremony setup
Officiant
Bouquet & boutonnière
Wedding cake
Photography
Romantic turndown service
Some even offer free wedding packages if you meet a minimum number of room nights or guest rooms.
Pro Tip:
Look for wedding packages under $5,000 and inquire about upgrade options so you can keep costs predictable while still having flexibility.
👰 Step 4: Keep Your Guest List Intimate
Keeping your guest count small is the fastest way to reduce your expenses. Many couples opt for a micro destination wedding or even an elopement-style ceremony with fewer than 20 guests.
Budget-saving perks of a small guest list:
Smaller venue needed
Fewer meals and drinks to cover
Reduced transportation costs
More time to personalize the guest experience
You can always host a casual reception party at home afterward!
✈️ Step 5: Book Early for Best Rates
The earlier you plan, the better your savings. Flights, room blocks, and wedding packages are often discounted when booked 9–12 months in advance.
Work with a destination wedding planner (like us at Destination Weddings with Globetrot) who can:
Lock in group travel rates
Coordinate resort availability
Manage payment plans for your guests
Early planning = major savings.
💡 Step 6: Be Flexible With Dates
Choosing an off-season or shoulder-season wedding date can save thousands. Avoiding holidays and high-travel months can lead to better package deals and more personalized attention from resort staff.
Cheapest months for destination weddings:
May – June
September – early November
First 2 weeks of December
Use phrases like “affordable wedding dates” and “budget wedding season” when researching online.
🎨 Step 7: Simplify Decor and Extras
Less is more. Many all-inclusive packages already come with beautiful natural surroundings and base décor—meaning you don’t have to spend extra.
Save with:
Local flowers instead of imports
Ceremony arches included with package
Minimalist décor (elegant and cost-effective)
Resort-approved photographers or bring your own for a day fee
Ask about DIY-friendly destination wedding packages if you want more creative control.
📦 Bonus: Combine Your Wedding and Honeymoon
Booking your honeymoon at the same resort can save on transfers and offer you exclusive discounts. Many resorts include free honeymoon nights or upgrades when your wedding is hosted on-site.
🧭 Summary: Key Tips for Planning a Budget-Friendly Destination Wedding
Step | Action |
✅ Choose budget-friendly destinations like Mexico or the Dominican Republic | |
✅ Set a clear budget with all expenses outlined | |
✅ Book all-inclusive wedding packages under $5,000 | |
✅ Keep your guest list small and intimate | |
✅ Book early to lock in discounts | |
✅ Be flexible with dates for better pricing | |
✅ Keep décor simple and let the scenery shine | |
✅ Combine your wedding with your honeymoon |
🌐 Need Help Planning a Budget Destination Wedding?
At Destination Weddings with Globetrot, we specialize in affordable destination wedding planning services. We’ll help you choose the perfect resort, coordinate guest travel, and guide you through every step—so your wedding is magical, not stressful.
📥 Let’s Start Planning Today!
📅 Schedule your free consultation: Click here to book an appointment
🌐 Visit our website: www.destinationweddingswithglobetrot.ca
📄 Submit your inquiry: Inquiry Form
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