From The Straits Times    |


Photo: Her World Brides June 2016. Available at local news stands and major bookstores next week!  

The Cost

Depending on the kind of celebration you are planning, the destination and foreign currency rates, a wedding overseas can cost much more a celebration at home. A small, cosy affair at a 3-star resort or hotel with close friends and relatives can be easy on the pocket, but a grand and lavish do at a 6-star resort with all the fancy trimmings and trappings will set you back quite a bit.

Bear in mind other misc costs as well: transportation costs for guests if they are staying at other nearby hotels, the welcome dinner and more.

TIP: Always work with a overseas wedding planner as they will be able to get better rates from their vendors and save you a lot of time with the planning.

The Weather

Find out what the weather will be like at the time of your wedding at the overseas destination. If you’re planning an outdoor ceremony or celebration, you have to ensure that you and your guests are dressed to suit the weather

TIP: Always have a standby indoor option nearby your outdoor wedding venue. Some places have unpredictable weather.

Consider your Guests

Bear in mind the effort your guests will make to attend your wedding overseas; the travel costs, hotel costs, travelling time etc.  As much as you would like certain individuals to be there on your big day, a destination wedding is not for everyone. And if gusts are paying for their own trip to attend the do, they may not be as generous with their ang pows or wedding gifts. So do consider what your priorities and expectations are when planning a destination wedding.

TIP: prepare a checklist of everything your guests needs to be aware of – from documentation to bring and directions to their hotel and wedding venue and even the menu and dietary concerns – and help get them prepared for the occasion.

Expect the unexpected

A wedding overseas can be full of surprises no mater how well planned it is.  There might be language and culture barriers, and people may work differently from what you’re used to at home.  Be prepared to adapt and compromise and go with the flow.

TIP: Work with a planner who has planned weddings for Singaporean couples before. Check with your friends for recommendations.