Having a Destination Wedding? Should you pick up the tab for the wedding party?

When it comes to destination weddings, the tricky part is convincing your friends and family to spend a bunch of their OWN money to come to YOUR wedding. It’s unusual for the bride and groom to pick up the tab for their wedding party’s travel arrangements, but you may want to consider spending some extra dough to enhance the wedding party, and the other guest’s experience.

A great way to do this is to host a welcome reception, pay for a group activity (such as a group sailing excursion or city tour), pay for a bachelor/bachelorette party outing while in destination, or even have a nice post-wedding brunch the morning after the big event.

One thing to note, if the cost of your destination wedding makes it impossible for your best friend/maid of honor to attend, you may want to consider paying for or at least supplementing her travel costs.

The wedding couple should also consider putting together gift bags for their guests with destination themed goodies and keepsakes. Beach bags, beach towels, picture frames, sun block, sun visors etc. There are many companies that will personalize a large variety of goodies to hand out.

In conclusion, there is typically not an expectation to pay for your guests travel expenses, however I don’t know your guests or your finances (Hahaha). Ultimately, do what’s best for you and your wedding party!

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Shera Westin

I specialize in all-inclusive luxury vacations to warm weather destinations including Mexico and the Caribbean. Whether you’re planing a family vacation, romantic getaway or relaxing retreat with friends I am here to help! Learn more about me and view my contact information►

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