12-15 months before 

• Find a Destination Wedding Specialist 
• Check out their credentials and feel free to ask for testimonials.  
• Prepare for your consultation: 

• Start by choosing the date. 

• Make an informal headcount and take note of where each guest resides. 
• Consider potential destinations and resorts: do you have a more intimate experience in mind, or will you be a large group looking for lots of activities? 

12 months before 

• Send your electronic or prepare invitations or create your own wedding website. 
• You will need to make travel deposits in order to benefit from applicable early booking savings and advantages. 

• Venues should always be booked first: if you have your heart set on that gleaming white gazebo overlooking the ocean, have your Destination Wedding Specialist book it before someone else does! 
• Decide on a civil, religious or symbolic wedding and have your planner book a priest or minister accordingly. Your planner will know the wedding requirements as they vary by destination. 

8-12 months before 

• Work with your Destination Wedding Specialists to find the right photographer and book them the best ones can get booked quickly! 

• Choose the wedding gown as well as the attire for the groom and wedding party. 

6 months before 

• Decide on the flowers, décor, music, lighting and menu. 
• Follow up with guests who have not yet RSVP’d. 

• Buy your rings. 

2-4 months before 

• Schedule fittings and alterations for the bride, the groom and wedding party. 
• Decide on any other activities on or off site that you may want to include during the week, like bachelor and bachelorette parties, excursions, rehearsals, etc. 

• Have hair and makeup appointments schedules for the day of the wedding. 

2 months before 

• Final dress fitting for the bride and bridesmaids. 
• Review and confirm your wedding contract. 

1-3 days after arrival 

• Meet with your on-site wedding planner to see the venues in person and go over what was booked. 
• Meet with the photographer to review your preferences and requirements and get a feel for working together. 
• Rehearsals are always recommended, preferably in the same venue as your ceremony. 

Day before departure 

• Throw a farewell party: any excuse is a good excuse to spend more time with loved ones before heading home or beginning of your honeymoon!