When you’re dreaming of a destination wedding, it’s only natural to wonder: how much is this going to cost? The good news is, planning a destination wedding can actually be more affordable (and far less stressful) than a traditional wedding. The key is understanding how to budget wisely, and that’s where we come in. We’re here to guide you through the numbers of resorts and wedding packages, so your dream celebration feels effortless and within reach.

With all that said, we’re going to be diving into the most common budget questions couples have about destination weddings so you can plan with clarity, confidence, and zero surprises.

What is the average cost of a destination wedding?

The total cost of your destination wedding depends on where you choose to celebrate, how many days and events you plan, the season, your guest size, etc. To give you a ballpark, a beautiful and affordable destination wedding with about 50 guests typically comes in around $15,000.

How do I budget for a destination wedding?

Know what you can comfortably afford. Before you dive into the dreamy Pinterest boards, it’s important to discuss the budget with your partner. We always recommend starting with a clear picture of what you’re working with. That means looking at your savings, any help from family, and what you’re personally ready to invest in your celebration.

For example, if you’re inviting around 50 guests, you can expect to spend about $200 to $300 per person. This is a typical range, but costs can vary. Wedding packages can sometimes be complimentary, or go up to $7,000 or more, depending on the resort and what’s included. Starting with a solid budget helps you make confident, informed choices and keeps you from falling head over heels for add-ons that are out of reach.

What’s typically included and what’s not at all-inclusive resorts?

Most wedding packages cover the ceremony, cocktail hour, reception dinner, open bar, and wedding coordinator. However, extras like upgraded decor, premium venues, outside vendor fees, and additional events (like a welcome party) often come at an additional cost.

On average, you might spend:

• $1,000 to $4,000 on floral decor
• $1,500 to $4,000 on reception decor
• $4,000 to $7,000 for food and drinks*
• $400 to $500 for hair and makeup
• $2,000 to $3,000 for photography
• $1,000 to $1,500 for videography
• $2,500 to $4,000 for outdoor lighting
• $2,000 to $4,000 for the DJ and dance floor

*Food and drinks are usually included in the wedding package, but this can vary per resort. If food and drink are not included, room block bookings can earn credits or free private events like a cocktail party or reception dinner. On average, plan to budget $4,000 to $7,000 for food, drinks, and an open bar if not included in your destination wedding package.

All prices mentioned above represent average costs. Actual costs depend on the destination, resort, number of guests, time of year, vendors, decor, and menu selections. These figures are intended to provide a starting point for determining how much a destination wedding may require from your budget. All prices are subject to change based on your choices.

Before booking anything, make sure to secure your wedding date and set up a room block with your destination wedding specialist. This step lays the foundation for everything that follows. We understand that planning on your own can feel overwhelming and confusing. That’s why we’re here to help you carefully unpack the details of your destination wedding package, so you can avoid surprises and feel confident every step of the way.

How can we stay on budget without sacrificing style or experience?

The key is to work with the natural beauty and built-in perks of your tropical location. Choose a stunning resort that offers scenic ceremony spots, local greenery, and all-inclusive packages to help minimize costs. Start with a package that covers the essentials, then thoughtfully add the touches that matter most to you. Guests will remember the beautiful setting, laughter, and love…not how much you spent on centerpieces!

How can we make the destination wedding experience convenient and affordable for our guests?

When you’re asking friends and family to travel for your wedding, it’s natural to want to make their trip as easy and enjoyable as possible. Fortunately, you can be thoughtful without covering every expense. Reserving hotel blocks with rooms at different price points or hosting a casual welcome party are meaningful ways to show your appreciation. You might also consider organizing fun group activities like a golf outing, a catamaran and snorkel excursion, or a beach bonfire with s’mores. It’s all about finding those little touches that make your guests feel special, while still honoring your budget.

Should we hire a destination wedding specialist?

In short, yes. A destination wedding specialist brings insider knowledge that can save you both time and money. They know which resorts offer the best value, which travel dates come with the lowest rates, and how to unlock perks like free nights, upgrades, or even complimentary events based on group size. Beyond that, they help navigate resort contracts, manage guests’ travel questions, and provide tools and tech to keep group planning organized and on track. Think of them as your advocate, someone who keeps your vision (and your budget) intact while making the entire process feel effortless.

Let’s take your love to paradise…

Saying “I Do” Starts with a Dream and a Plan

Every destination wedding starts with a dream, but it should also start with a plan. Whether you are just starting to gather ideas or ready to take the next step, we are here to help you build a celebration that fits your vision and your wallet.