Helpful Tips For Planning a Destination Wedding

Planning for an Overseas Wedding?

You’re not alone. Many couples are doing it too. The reality is overseas weddings are becoming more and more popular. In fact, the amount of overseas wedding banquets that I hosted in 2016 has doubled compared to 2015, and tripled compared to 2014. While I enjoy very much taking part in the celebration, I’ve learnt along the way that, there are pros and cons when it comes to having an overseas wedding and I am here to share some tips with you. 

What's Great
• You’ll be able to take your vows in your dream destination. Celebrating in an unusual or exotic location will certainly make it a wedding to remember.
• It can often be less expensive than having a wedding in your own country.
• A wedding abroad allows you to just invite your closest friends and family. It’s a great excuse to eliminate those who you don’t want to invite.
• Wedding and honeymoon all wrapped up into one - time and cost efficient.

What's Not So Great
• Disappointment from family or friends being unable to afford, or take the time off to attend your wedding abroad.
• Although your wedding abroad may work out cheaper initially, if you put on a second reception in your country for all those who couldn’t make it, you can end up paying more.
• Even if you head for tropical climes, you can’t guarantee sunny weather.
• Unless you head off for honeymoon somewhere else, you might be stuck with your friends and family!

People choose to have an overseas wedding for many reasons. However,the first thing you need to do when planning a wedding abroad is hire a wedding planner.Trust me, you will need their help, particularly in a country where there could be legal, cultural or language issues. You may choose to hire a wedding organiser in your chosen destination or simply hire a Hong Kong-based wedding planner, who is experienced in dealing with overseas weddings, and have them explain to you the different types of service they offer. Discuss how much you have to spend. Decide if you want a civil wedding ceremony or a symbolic ceremony only. If you want a civil wedding ceremony, find out if they will handle all the legal elements for you. Ask for references and photos of their work.

It is more ideal that you have actually visited the destination of your choice before having your wedding there. Make a preliminary visit. Meet up with your planner and visit the suggested ceremony and reception venues. If you aren’t able to bring your own hairdresser and make-up artist with you, you should find out who will be doing your hair and make-up on the day and ask for a trial if possible.

When it comes to choosing a wedding dress, you need to think the climate you’re marrying in. If it’s a hot country, avoid any heavy fabrics. Lightweight chiffons and tulles are more suitable. Also consider how you will transport your wedding dress. Most brides like to take it in the hold of the plane with them in case their luggage gets lost or delayed. The same goes for jewellery, and especially your wedding rings. Lastly, make sure everyone takes out some travel insurance.

The dream of having a wedding abroad is fast becoming a reality for many couples. Relax and discuss with your partner and write your own list of pros and cons. This will help you make your final decision. At the end of the day, it should be a choice made by you and your partner. Do what makes you happy as it is your special day.
 

About Marcus Kwok
Marcus Kwok is a Hong Kong born professional emcee, actor and a medical doctor. After practicing as an ER doctor in Melbourne, Australia for four years, Marcus returned to Hong Kong to pursue his acting career.

Marcus is now a well-known TV host with his own TV show “Dolce Vita” which is broadcasted in both English and Cantonese on TVB Pearl and TVB Jade.

When Marcus is not hosting his TV programs, he often hosts live events and weddings as a celebrity emcee. His clients are always impressed with his multi-lingual ability (English, Cantonese, Mandarin, Indonesian and Japanese) which caters to guests from various cultural backgrounds.

Marcus’ wedding emcee experience is not only limited to Hong Kong but he has emceed weddings all over the world, including: Japan, Canada, China, Macao, Singapore, Indonesia and Thailand.

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