Timeline for Planning a European Destination Wedding

Planning a wedding overseas can feel overwhelming, but breaking it down into a month-by-month guide ensures you stay organized and stress-free. Each stage of the process has specific tasks to focus on, making the journey smoother and more enjoyable. Here are some tips on creating the ultimate timeline for planning a European destination wedding.

12–10 Months Before:
Choose your destination and secure your venue. Research local marriage laws and start assembling your vendor team, including a wedding planner with experience in your chosen location. Send out save-the-dates early so guests have plenty of time to plan their travel.

9–7 Months Before:
Book key vendors such as the photographer, florist, and caterer. Finalize your guest list and begin arranging group accommodations and transportation. If you’re visiting the destination beforehand, use this time for tastings, venue walkthroughs, and vendor meetings.

6–4 Months Before:
Confirm travel arrangements for yourself and any key participants, like your officiant. Send out invitations with detailed travel information. Finalize your wedding attire and schedule fittings, keeping in mind extra time needed for international shipping or tailoring.

3–2 Months Before:
Work with your planner to finalize your wedding day timeline. Confirm all vendor details, such as menus, seating arrangements, and decor. Begin creating welcome bags or favors for guests, incorporating local touches from your destination.

1 Month Before:
Double-check travel documents, such as passports and visas, and confirm transportation arrangements for the wedding day. Ensure all final payments are made to vendors and have a contingency plan in case of unexpected delays or issues.

Wedding Week:
Arrive at your destination a few days early to acclimate and handle any last-minute details. Meet with your vendors on-site to review the schedule and setup. Take time to relax, enjoy the surroundings, and prepare for your big day.

We’d love to support you on your wedding day as your destination wedding photographer! Contact us today to get started.