Absolutely Weddings’ experts answer your wedding questions. Here, Jamie Landesberg of 4 The People gives advice on the things you need to consider before you choose an overseas wedding celebration with guests
Q: We’re thinking about organising a wedding abroad with invited guests, but have no idea where to start. Can you advise on key areas we need to consider before we decide if this is a good idea?
A: Marrying abroad can be wonderful and the fundamental planning rules don’t change, but there are two extra points to consider at the outset. The first is suppliers; using British-based companies makes initial planning easier but adds costs for transportation and accommodation. If you choose local suppliers, on the other hand, this may be more cost-efficient but the approach and style doesn’t always match what we expect in the UK. This is why professional wedding planners always have networks they can tap into to help them source the best people with the right track record in any given location.
The second point is about fulfilling your role as host. While a glamorous château, villa or hotel in the sun may seem reasonable when compared to central London prices, it’s all too easy to forget the extra costs. You need to factor in not only travel and accommodation support for your guests but also extra entertainment as they will be arriving ahead of the wedding and staying on afterwards. As a bare minimum, a welcome and an after-party event need to be included in your budget.
“While a glamorous château or hotel in the sun may seem reasonable when compared to central London prices, you need to factor in extra costs, including entertainment for guests”
Of course, these are practicalities that should not dissuade you from your dream, but careful planning is essential to avoid getting stressed over the details. I counsel anyone considering an overseas wedding to sit down with someone who’s planned and organised something on this scale in an overseas location.
Jamie Landesberg is principal of London-based wedding and event organisers 4 The People 4thepeopleuk.com
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