New Jewish Outreach: A Rabbi for all your Life Cycle Events.

06/03/2026

Three Things No One Tells You About Planning a Destination Wedding

So you've said yes to the destination, yes to the dress, and yes to getting married somewhere with a better sunset than your hometown. Congratulations — now let's talk about three things that will quietly make or break your big day if you're not upfront about them from the start: children, your vendors, and your shoes.

Be Clear About Children (Before Anyone Books a Flight)
This is the conversation couples dread, but it has to happen early. Are kids invited? All kids, or just immediate family? What about infants?

The moment you announce a destination wedding, your guests start doing mental math — flights, hotels, time off work, and yes, childcare. If you're not inviting children, say so clearly and kindly in your save-the-dates. Don't wait until the invitation arrives. Giving families six to twelve months of notice lets them arrange childcare, decide if they can make it work, and love you for being upfront rather than resenting you for the ambiguity.

If kids are invited, think through the logistics: Is the venue child-safe? Is there a kids' menu? Could you arrange a babysitting service for the reception so parents can actually enjoy themselves? A little planning goes a long way.

Your Vendors: Local, Imported, or Both?
Destination weddings come with a vendor paradox. You want the florist whose Instagram you've been saving for two years — but she's based three time zones away. Meanwhile, the local vendors know the venue, the light, the humidity, and the permit process better than anyone.

The smart move? Hire locally for anything that requires on-the-ground knowledge (photographers familiar with the landscape, caterers who know local suppliers, coordinators who speak the language — literally and figuratively). Then consider bringing in one or two personal-touch vendors for elements that matter most to you. Just check import rules, travel fees, and whether your venue allows outside vendors before you commit.

Your Shoes Will Make or Break You
Cobblestone streets in Santorini. Sand in Tulum. Grass in Tuscany. Your stilettos are not going to survive, and more importantly, you are not going to survive in them.

Try your shoes on the actual terrain before the wedding day. If you're getting married on a beach, commit to sandals or go barefoot with intention. If it's cobblestone, kitten heels or elegant flats are your friends. Your feet will carry you through a ten-hour day of photos, cocktails, and dancing — dress them accordingly.

A destination wedding is one of the most joyful, memorable things you can do. A little clarity on these three fronts means fewer surprises, happier guests, and a bride who can actually walk to the altar.

Have more questions about your destination wedding, or ready to book with Martyn? Email Martyn at [email protected]

05/20/2026

Are There Advantages of a Destination Wedding?

Here at New Jewish Outreach, we think that,

Destination weddings have become increasingly popular, and for good reason. While they may not be the traditional choice, they offer several unique advantages that can make your wedding more memorable and meaningful.

1. A Built-In Experience

A destination wedding isn’t just a ceremony—it’s an experience. Instead of a few hours, your celebration can span several days with welcome dinners, group activities, and time to truly connect with your guests. It turns your wedding into a shared getaway.

2. More Intimate Guest List

Because travel is involved, destination weddings typically have smaller guest lists. While that may seem like a downside, it often leads to a more intimate and personal atmosphere. You get to spend quality time with the people who matter most.

3. Stunning Locations

From beaches to mountains to historic cities, destination weddings offer natural beauty that traditional venues often can’t match. The setting itself becomes part of your wedding’s charm, often reducing the need for elaborate decorations.

4. Less Stress (Sometimes)

Many destination venues, especially resorts, offer all-inclusive wedding packages. This can simplify planning by bundling services like catering, décor, and coordination into one package. For many couples, this means less stress and fewer moving parts.

5. Memorable for Everyone

Guests often remember destination weddings more vividly because they combine travel, celebration, and unique experiences. It’s not just another event—it’s something people look forward to and talk about long after it’s over.

6. Opportunity to Personalize

Destination weddings often allow couples to break away from strict traditions. You can create a celebration that reflects your personality—whether that’s casual, elegant, adventurous, or culturally inspired.

7. Wedding and Honeymoon Combined

Many couples choose to stay at their destination after the wedding, effectively turning it into their honeymoon. This can save time and simplify travel planning.

Final Thoughts

While destination weddings require extra planning and consideration for guests, the advantages can be significant. From unforgettable settings to deeper connections with loved ones, they offer a unique way to celebrate one of life’s biggest moments.

In the end, a destination wedding isn’t just about where you get married—it’s about creating an experience that you and your guests will never forget.

Have more questions about your destination wedding, or ready to book with Martyn? Email Martyn at [email protected]

05/13/2026

What Do We Recommend for a Destination Wedding Menu?

One of the most memorable parts of any wedding is the food, and destination weddings offer couples a unique opportunity to create a menu that reflects both their personalities and the location they’ve chosen. The best destination wedding menus combine great flavor, local culture, and guest-friendly options.

1. Incorporate Local Cuisine

One of the biggest advantages of a destination wedding is the chance to feature regional dishes and flavors. Whether it’s fresh seafood at a beach wedding, Italian specialties in Tuscany, or tropical fruit and spices in the Caribbean, local cuisine adds authenticity. It creates a more memorable experience for guests.

2. Keep the Menu Balanced

While it’s great to be creative, it’s also important to offer familiar options. A balanced menu should include choices for different tastes and dietary needs. Offering a mix of proteins, vegetarian options, lighter dishes, and comfort foods helps ensure everyone enjoys the meal.

3. Consider the Climate

The location and weather should influence your menu choices. For warm-weather weddings, lighter meals, fresh salads, grilled items, and refreshing cocktails work well. In cooler destinations, richer dishes and warm appetizers may feel more appropriate.

4. Focus on Fresh Ingredients

Fresh, local ingredients often make the biggest impression. Seasonal fruits, vegetables, seafood, and locally sourced items usually taste better and fit naturally with the destination’s atmosphere.

5. Add Interactive Food Experiences

Many couples now include interactive food stations, dessert bars, or late-night snacks. Taco stations, pasta bars, seafood displays, or local dessert tastings can make the dining experience more fun and engaging for guests.

6. Signature Drinks Matter

A custom cocktail inspired by the destination or the couple’s story adds a personal touch. Guests often remember the small details, and specialty drinks can become part of the wedding’s identity.

7. Don’t Forget Dietary Restrictions

Always offer options for guests with allergies or dietary preferences. Vegetarian, vegan, gluten-free, and allergy-friendly selections are becoming increasingly important at modern weddings.

Final Thoughts

The best destination wedding menus are not just about food—they are about creating an experience. A thoughtful menu can reflect the culture of the location, enhance the atmosphere, and leave guests talking about the celebration long after the wedding is over.

Great food brings people together, and at a destination wedding, it becomes part of the journey itself.

Have more questions about your destination wedding, or ready to book with Martyn? Email Martyn at [email protected]

05/06/2026

What Makes a Destination Wedding Unique?

A destination wedding is more than just a ceremony in a different location—it’s an experience that transforms a traditional event into something far more personal, memorable, and meaningful.

1. The Location Sets the Tone

One of the biggest factors that makes a destination wedding unique is the setting. Whether it’s a beach, a mountain, a historic city, or a resort, the location becomes part of the story. The scenery often replaces the need for heavy decorations, creating a natural and visually stunning backdrop.

2. A More Intimate Guest List

Destination weddings typically involve smaller, more selective guest lists. Because travel is required, only close family and friends tend to attend. This creates a more intimate environment where couples can spend quality time with each guest rather than rushing through a large crowd.

3. It’s More Than One Day

Unlike traditional weddings that last just a few hours, destination weddings often turn into multi-day celebrations. Welcome dinners, group activities, and farewell brunches give everyone more time to connect and celebrate together. It becomes less of an event and more of a shared experience.

4. Built-In Travel Experience

Guests aren’t just attending a wedding—they’re going on a trip. This adds excitement and anticipation, making the event feel like a mini vacation. It also creates lasting memories not just of the ceremony, but of everything surrounding it.

5. Personalization and Creativity

Destination weddings often break away from strict traditions. Couples feel more freedom to design a wedding that reflects their personality, whether that means a casual beach ceremony, a themed event, or incorporating local culture into the celebration.

6. A Different Kind of Atmosphere

There’s something about being away from home that changes the energy. Guests are more relaxed, schedules are less rushed, and the overall vibe tends to be more enjoyable and laid-back.

Final Thoughts

What truly makes a destination wedding unique is the combination of location, experience, and connection. It’s not just about getting married—it’s about creating a memorable journey for both the couple and their guests.

Have more questions about your destination wedding, or ready to book with Martyn? Email Martyn at [email protected]

04/29/2026

"Wedding aesthetics have reached a new level. Not only are couples customizing every element of the event, like a personalized weekend festival, but many couples are also asking their guests to participate in the highly curated vision. Beyond cocktail and black-tie, engaged couples are assigning both strict and up-for-creative-interpretation dress codes for welcome parties, rehearsal dinners, and the main event, ranging from “beachside chic” to “creative red carpet” to “shades of blue” and beyond."

Find out more about "Is It OK to Ask Your Wedding Guests to Wear Specific Colors?"

Learn the etiquette behind asking guests to wear certain colors to your wedding, as well as how to make the request without overstepping.

04/22/2026

Travel has a major impact on destination weddings.

Destination weddings are evolving into full travel experiences rather than single-day events. As travel trends continue to shift, couples are focusing more on personalization, meaningful moments, and shared experiences with their guests.

It’s not just about where you get married—it’s about the journey you create around it.

Have more questions about your destination wedding, or ready to book with Martyn? Email Martyn at [email protected]

04/15/2026

New Jewish Outreach: A Rabbi for all your Life Cycle Events. Destination Wedding Tips for 2026: Plan Smart, Celebrate Better

Destination weddings aren’t just a trend anymore—they’ve become a thoughtful way to create a more intimate, memorable experience. But planning one in 2026 comes with its own set of opportunities and challenges, from evolving travel habits to rising costs and new tech tools.

If you're considering saying “I do” somewhere far from home, here’s how to plan it right.

1. Choose a Location That Works for Guests—Not Just You

It’s tempting to pick a remote island or hidden gem, but accessibility matters more than ever. In 2026, flight prices and travel logistics can fluctuate quickly, so prioritize destinations with:

Major international airports nearby
Reliable local transportation
A range of accommodation options

A stunning location loses its charm if half your guest list can’t realistically attend.

2. Plan Further Ahead Than You Think

Destination weddings require more coordination than local ones. Aim for:

12–18 months of planning time
Save-the-dates sent at least 9–12 months in advance
Final confirmations 3–4 months before

Travel demand are high in popular wedding seasons, so locking things in early can save money and stress.

3. Build a Realistic Budget (Then Add 15%)

Costs can sneak up on you—especially with currency changes, travel fees, and vendor markups for remote locations.

Account for:

Venue and accommodations
Vendor travel fees
Welcome events and group activities
Legal paperwork or permits

That extra 10–15% buffer isn’t optional—it’s survival.

4. Visit Before You Book (or Use Virtual Tours Wisely)

If you can, visit your destination at least once before committing. If that’s not possible:

Request live virtual walkthroughs
Read recent reviews (not just curated testimonials)
Ask for full event-day breakdowns

Photos can be outdated or staged—real-time insight matters more.

5. Hire a Local Wedding Planner

This is one of the smartest investments you can make.

A local planner:

Understands regional laws and customs
Has established vendor relationships
Can troubleshoot issues quickly on the ground

Trying to manage everything remotely without local expertise is where most couples run into problems.

6. Think Beyond the Wedding Day

A destination wedding is more like a multi-day experience. Guests are traveling far—give them more than just a ceremony.

Consider:

Welcome dinners
Group excursions (beach day, city tours, etc.)
Farewell brunch

You don’t need to plan every minute, but a few shared moments go a long way.

7. Be Clear About Costs for Guests

Not everyone can afford a destination wedding—and that’s okay.

Be upfront about:

Expected travel costs
Accommodation options at different price points
Optional vs. required events

Avoid pressure. The people who can come will, and they’ll appreciate the transparency.

8. Pack Like a Pro (And Expect Delays)

Lost luggage and travel delays still happen. Plan accordingly:

Carry on essential items (outfits, rings, documents)
Ship decor ahead of time when possible
Bring backups for important items

Assume something will go wrong—and you’ll be pleasantly surprised if it doesn’t.

9. Understand Legal Requirements

Marriage laws vary widely by country. Some destinations require:

Residency periods
Specific documentation
Blood tests or translations

Many couples choose to legally marry at home and have a symbolic ceremony abroad to avoid complications.

10. Embrace Flexibility

Weather changes. Vendors cancel. Flights get delayed.

The couples who enjoy their destination wedding the most are the ones who accept that perfection isn’t the goal—experience is.

Final Thoughts

A destination wedding in 2026 can be unforgettable—but only if it’s planned with intention. Focus on what truly matters: meaningful moments, shared experiences, and a setting that enhances—not complicates—your celebration.

If you approach it thoughtfully, it won’t just be a wedding. It’ll be a story people talk about for years.

Have more questions about your destination wedding, or ready to book with Martyn? Email Martyn at [email protected]

04/08/2026

"Determining who is responsible for wedding expenses blends tradition with modern practices. In the past, the bride's parents paid for the whole event, but now, both families often contribute, and some couples handle the costs themselves. Experts provide guidance on managing these discussions to ensure all parties are aligned and comfortable."

Read more about "Who Pays for the Wedding? Here's What Each Family Is Traditionally Responsible For."

Have a question or need more information about destination weddings?

Email Martyn at [email protected]

Deciding who pays for a wedding can create friction between a couple and their parents, since traditional guidelines don't always apply. Whether you want to know what the groom's family should pay for or are looking for a budget starting point, turn to this guide to figure out who pays for what in a...

04/08/2026

At New Jewish Outreach: A Rabbi for all your Life Cycle Events. we want you to be prepared for everything at your destination wedding.

Planning a destination wedding can be exciting, romantic, and unforgettable—but it also comes with important legal details you should not overlook. One of the biggest issues couples face is making sure they have the correct legal documents required to marry in another location.

Every country—and sometimes even each state or province—has its own marriage laws. That means the documents required for a destination wedding may be very different from what you would need at home.

The most common documents you may need include:

Valid passports
Birth certificates
Divorce decrees (if either person was previously married)
Death certificate of a former spouse (if applicable)
Government-issued photo ID
Marriage license application
Witness information

Some destinations may also require documents to be translated, notarized, or apostilled (officially certified for international use). Others may require you to arrive several days in advance to meet residency requirements before the ceremony can legally take place.

Because the rules can vary so much, it is important to check the legal requirements early—preferably months in advance. Waiting too long can create stress, delays, or even jeopardize whether your marriage is legally recognized.

Another important question to ask is:
Do you want the legal ceremony at the destination—or just the celebration?

Many couples choose to handle the legal marriage paperwork at home first and then have a symbolic or religious ceremony at their destination. This can simplify the process and reduce legal complications while still giving you the destination wedding experience you want.

When working with our team of destination wedding planners, we will check with you to see if you have already inquired about which documents are needed and when they must be submitted.

A destination wedding should be joyful—not stressful. By understanding the legal paperwork ahead of time, you can focus less on bureaucracy and more on enjoying your special day.

A beautiful location is wonderful—but making sure your marriage is legally valid is just as important.

Have a question or need more information about destination weddings?
Email Martyn at [email protected]

04/01/2026

"The moment you slip on your engagement ring, you likely will feel like you never want to take it off. It quickly becomes part of you, and going even a moment without it can seem strange. While the ring symbolizes forever with your partner, you should remove it at certain times to protect your precious stone."

Continue to read this article on "5 Things You Should Never Do While Wearing Your Engagement Ring."

A jewelry expert reveals the five everyday activities that can damage your engagement ring. From sleeping and showering to cleaning and working out, here's how to protect your diamond and setting for years to come.