Common Destination Wedding Mistakes & How to Avoid Them

A destination wedding is a dream come true for many couples—imagine exchanging vows with breathtaking scenery, a gentle ocean breeze, and your closest loved ones by your side. But planning a wedding away from home comes with its own set of challenges. To make sure your big day is as magical as you’ve always imagined, here are some common destination wedding mistakes and tips on how to avoid them.

1. Not Visiting the Venue Beforehand

While online photos and virtual tours can be helpful, nothing compares to experiencing the venue in person. Seeing it firsthand helps you assess the space, meet with coordinators, and truly envision your special day.

How to Avoid It: If possible, plan a visit before your wedding. If travel isn’t an option, work with a trusted local wedding planner who knows the venue inside and out. At Siquijor Summit Resort and Events, we offer virtual consultations and detailed venue walkthroughs to help you plan with confidence.

2. Overlooking Local Marriage Requirements

Every destination has its own legal requirements for getting married—things like residency periods, paperwork, or special permits that can catch couples off guard.

How to Avoid It: Do your research ahead of time. If you’re tying the knot in the Philippines, you may need a marriage license, birth certificates, and additional documents, especially for foreign couples. Consulting with a local expert can save you from any last-minute surprises.

3. Not Considering the Weather

Weather can make or break an outdoor wedding. The last thing you want is unexpected rain or high winds disrupting your big moment.

How to Avoid It: Check the best season to get married in your chosen destination. In Siquijor, the dry months from November to May offer the most reliable weather. Always have a Plan B, like an indoor or covered venue, just in case.

4. Ignoring Guest Convenience

Your guests are making a special effort to attend your wedding, so making their travel and stay as smooth as possible is key.

How to Avoid It: Give them plenty of notice, suggest accommodation options, and provide a detailed itinerary. At SSRE, we offer guest assistance and seamless event coordination to ensure a hassle-free experience.

5. Skipping a Professional Wedding Planner

Planning a wedding from afar can be stressful, especially when juggling multiple vendors and logistics.

How to Avoid It: Work with an experienced destination wedding planner who knows the location inside out. At SSRE, we handle everything down to the smallest details, so you can simply focus on enjoying your big day.

6. Underestimating Local Vendors & Logistics

Bringing in vendors unfamiliar with the area can lead to logistical issues and unexpected costs.

How to Avoid It: Partner with local suppliers who know the ins and outs of the destination. At SSRE, we connect you with trusted vendors who provide top-quality services and ensure smooth execution.

7. Failing to Capture the Moment

Your wedding is a once-in-a-lifetime event, and not having it properly documented is a mistake you don’t want to make.

How to Avoid It: Invest in professional photography and videography. At SSRE, we collaborate with skilled photographers and videographers to ensure your special moments are beautifully preserved.

Your Perfect Destination Wedding, Done Right

Your wedding day is meant to be a celebration of love, not a source of stress. By avoiding these common pitfalls, you can ensure a smooth, memorable, and magical experience for you and your guests. From stunning venues to expert coordination, every detail matters in making your big day truly special.

At Siquijor Summit Resort and Events, we believe in crafting not just weddings, but unforgettable experiences. Let’s turn your dream destination wedding into a breathtaking reality—one that’s as seamless and beautiful as your love story.

Let’s make it happen! Get in touch with us today and start your journey toward a wedding that’s stress-free, joyful, and uniquely yours.