Are You Ready for Destination Wedding Clients?

May 7

Destination weddings are a dream come true for many couples, but they also come with unique challenges that require a skilled and prepared wedding planner. Whether you're just starting or looking to elevate your destination wedding services, ensuring you're fully prepared is essential. Use this guide to assess your readiness and make sure you're equipped to deliver exceptional experiences.

8 Essential Questions to Ask Yourself as a Destination Wedding Planner

1. Do You Offer Full-Service Planning?

Are you clear about your service offerings—full-service planning, partial planning, or day-of coordination?
Can you communicate your value to clients and explain why full-service planning may be their best option?
Are you only doing the planning and vendor finding or are you also booking the room and wedding to receive those commissions?

2. Do You Have Strong Relationships with Vendors at Your Destination?

Have you built a network of trusted local vendors (florists, photographers, caterers, etc.)?
Can you confidently negotiate with these vendors on behalf of your clients?
Do you know the laws of marriage and customs in this destination?

3. Are You Prepared for Travel Logistics?

Do you have a process for booking your travel and that of your team?
Are travel expenses clearly outlined in your client contracts?

4. Do You Partner with a Travel Advisor for Guest Logistics?

Can you recommend a reliable travel advisor for your clients' guests? If you aren’t booking the rooms?
Do you offer to coordinate guest accommodations, transportation, and excursions?

5. Can You Handle Unexpected Challenges?

Have you developed a process for managing last-minute issues without affecting the client experience?
Can you share examples of how you've solved problems on the spot?

6. Do You Provide Design and Styling Services?

Are you skilled in creating cohesive design concepts that align with your clients' vision?
Can you balance design aesthetics with budgetary considerations?
In destination, do you know where and how to source the items that you need?

7. Do You Maintain Clear and Consistent Communication?

Do you have a communication plan to keep clients updated, even during quieter planning periods?
Are you available for regular check-ins, and do you have a response time policy?

8. Will You Be On-Site for the Wedding Day?

Will you personally oversee the wedding day, or do you have a trusted team that manages day-of logistics?
Are clients aware of who will be on-site and what roles they will play?
If you are not onsite, do you have someone in Destination to provide Wedding Day Management?

Preparing for Your Next Destination Wedding Client

If you can confidently answer these questions, you're on your way to being a successful destination wedding planner. If not, take this as an opportunity to strengthen your approach, refine your services, and build a network that ensures your clients receive the best experience possible.

If you can’t answer these questions confidently, then you are in the right place. Our ABC members can help! We have many travel advisors and Destination Wedding Planners that can assist you and your clients. You can reach out directly from our members directory or you can give us a call at 336-690-5510 for more information on how to reach a member to assist you.

Bonus: Client Communication Checklist

Set clear expectations during the first client meeting.
Provide a detailed contract outlining services, fees, and travel arrangements.
Maintain a timeline for planning milestones and client updates.
Regularly confirm travel details with vendors and the client.
Be proactive in addressing any client concerns.

By asking yourself these questions and enhancing your preparation, you'll be ready to create unforgettable destination weddings that leave your clients thrilled with their experience.