Your Guide to a Dream Destination Wedding: Planning Tips & Inspiration

Destination weddings are having a moment – and for good reason. Whether it’s an iconic getaway or a place that feels like home from afar, couples are embracing this style of celebration for its intimacy and built-in sense of adventure. In this guide, we’re sharing essential destination wedding tips to help you plan a celebration that feels seamless, personal and truly once-in-a-lifetime.

What is a Destination Wedding?

Simply put, a destination wedding is a celebration held somewhere other than the couple’s current city of residence. For some, that means a far-flung getaway. For others, it’s a return to a hometown or meaningful place after moving away. It’s less about the miles and more about a setting that feels special.

Destination weddings often lead to a more intimate guest list, creating space for deeper connection and shared experiences. With a built-in vacation vibe, the celebration can unfold over a full weekend or longer. From sun-soaked beach ceremonies and cozy mountain retreats to vibrant city celebrations and all-inclusive resort weddings, the possibilities are as varied as the love stories themselves.

When Is the Best Time to Host a Destination Wedding?

Choosing the right time of year is just as important as selecting the location. Start by researching seasonal weather to be sure your setting looks and feels its best on your wedding day. It’s also wise to weigh peak season versus off-season dates, as traveling during quieter months can mean better availability and lower costs for you and your guests.

Be sure to check major holidays and local events, which can drive up travel prices and limit lodging options, to ensure your celebration is as smooth and stress-free as possible.

How Much Does a Destination Wedding Cost?

The cost of a destination wedding can vary widely, but with smart planning, you can keep it close to what you’d spend at home. Your biggest price drivers are the location, travel, guest count and time of year. Peak season and popular spots usually cost more, while off-season dates and a smaller guest list can save you and your guests quite a bit.

When you build your budget, start with your must-haves, like the venue, menu and overall experience. All-inclusive packages can be a big help, since they bundle key pieces (space, catering, coordination) into one clear price and make planning feel a whole lot simpler. Be clear upfront about what you’re hosting and what guests will cover on their own, so everyone can plan and budget comfortably.

Ready to start planning? Explore our wedding packages to make your dream destination wedding a reality.

Most Popular Destinations for Destination Weddings

When it comes to destination weddings, the options are as exciting as they are diverse. Tropical locales like the Caribbean offer sun, sand and a relaxed atmosphere. Italy delivers timeless romance with historic cities, countryside villas and unforgettable cuisine. Napa Valley is perfect for couples drawn to vineyard views and refined elegance, and Las Vegas brings a bold, high-energy vibe with endless entertainment.

But you don’t have to travel that far for a destination that feels like a true getaway. Combining convenience with a full-service resort experience, Turning Stone stands out. Offering beautiful wedding venues, accommodations, dining, spas, golf and entertainment all in one place, it’s easy for you and your guests to celebrate together.

Planning Tips for a Destination Wedding at Turning Stone

Planning your destination wedding at Turning Stone means you don’t have to juggle multiple vendors or logistics across different locations. As a true all-in-one destination, the resort brings everything together, from stunning ceremony and reception venues to in-house catering and on-site lodging. We even have an in-house, award-winning ice sculptor!

Here’s a simple checklist to get you started and remember – our expert team is with you every step of the way.

Explore our wedding venues and choose your date.
Secure a room block for your guests.
Plan guest experiences (dining, spa, entertainment, downtime).
Share travel, lodging and weekend details with guests.
Finalize your timeline and arrive ready to celebrate.

Bringing the Celebration Home: Your Upstate NY Destination Is Waiting

Sometimes, the most meaningful destination is a familiar one. If you’ve moved away from Upstate New York, coming home to celebrate can feel like bringing your love story full circle. At Turning Stone, that homecoming still feels like a getaway. With stunning wedding venues, on-site accommodations, standout dining and plenty for guests to enjoy, it’s an easy, luxurious way to welcome out-of-town loved ones – while you celebrate in a setting that already feels like it belongs to you.

Ready to start planning your Upstate NY destination wedding? Explore our destination wedding venues and connect with our expert wedding planners today.