Planning a destination wedding sounds like the ultimate dream, right? Sunshine, oceans, mountains, maybe a little passport stamp… until you realize you’re also managing flights, timelines, hotels, and vendors who are literally in another country. If you’re wondering how to plan a destination wedding without losing your mind or the vision you’ve dreamed of for years — you’re in the right place. I photograph destination weddings all the time, and trust me, with the right tips and a solid plan, your celebration can feel magical, intentional, and totally stress-free. So grab your coffee (or your passport), because I’m about to walk you through my favorite destination wedding planning tips, the things no one tells you about planning a wedding abroad, and the exact steps to keep everything organized from day one.






One of the biggest keys to planning a destination wedding is choosing a location that feels like you. Before you start looking at venues or guest lists, think about the overall vibe you want your wedding day to have. Do you see yourself running around cobblestone streets in Italy? Saying your vows on a cliff in Ireland with the wind in your hair? Ugh, a dream. Dreaming of soft, hazy mountain views in the Smokies? Or maybe you’re craving something tropical and sunny where the ocean is your soundtrack?
Here’s what I always recommend considering:
Pro tip: If the destination makes you feel excited, grounded, and inspired all at once? That’s usually your sign you’re on the right track.






A solid timeline is everything when you’re figuring out how to plan a destination wedding. With travel, time zones, and vendors in different countries, giving yourself enough cushion makes the whole process feel so much easier. Here’s a simple, realistic flow to follow:






One of my favorite destination wedding planning tips is this: hire vendors you already know and trust — and bring them with you. It might sound counterintuitive, but it’s truly one of the biggest stress-savers when you’re planning a wedding abroad.
When you choose a destination wedding photographer, a makeup artist, or a planner who is local to you but experienced in travel, you get two major perks:
Plus, having a team that already understands your vision makes everything feel smoother and more personal. Instead of relying on unknown vendors you’ve never met in a destination you’ve never been, you get the comfort of familiar faces who show up ready to take care of you, your photos, and your entire experience. It makes all the difference.







You’re not just packing outfits, you’re packing memories, important documents, and all the little things that keep your day running smoothly. A simple checklist can save you so much stress (and keep you from panic-ordering something at the airport ). Here’s a quick guide to get you started:
Passports + travel documents (and copies — just in case!)
Wedding attire in a carry-on, never checked
Vows, rings, and accessories
Skincare + makeup you trust (destination products can vary!)
Portable steamer for outfits + veils
Comfortable shoes for travel + photos
Weather essentials — sunscreen, umbrellas, shawls, etc.
Small emergency kit — fashion tape, pain reliever, sewing kit
Timeline printouts and vendor contact list
Bonus tip: Pack anything sentimental or irreplaceable with you on the plane. You’ll thank yourself later.





If you’ve been Googling how to plan a destination wedding and dreaming about celebrating somewhere unforgettable, you’re in the right place. From the coast to the mountains to the most magical spots abroad, I photograph destination weddings across the U.S. and internationally — and I love helping couples bring their dream day to life.
Here at Clark Photo and Film, when you’re in front of our cameras, we want you to feel completely at ease — like you’re hanging out with old friends. We focus on connection over posing, presence over perfection, and letting your story unfold naturally. Because we’re not just recreating inspiration photos. We’re documenting your story exactly as it felt, wherever it takes you.
Learn more about us here. If you’re ready to start planning or want help turning your vision into something real, reach out here and let’s dream up the perfect destination wedding together.
Looking for more destination wedding inspiration? Stalk the blog for venues in the mountains and by the beach!
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Destination wedding & elopement photographers based in Tennessee, specializing in heartfelt Gatlinburg and Smoky Mountain celebrations. From cozy cabin vows to Cades Cove sunsets and beyond — we’re here to document your story just as it felt.