Planning a wedding abroad can feel like a fairytale—and also, occasionally, like a very complicated spreadsheet. But don’t panic. With the right prep and a little inside knowledge, it can be everything you imagined and more: stunning views, meaningful details, a weekend your guests won’t stop talking about, and yes—a built-in honeymoon.

If you’re a New Zealand couple dreaming of saying “I do” overseas, the USA offers an incredible range of venues, from mountaintop retreats to vineyard estates. This guide breaks down the what, why, and how of booking a destination wedding in the USA, with zero fluff and all the practical tips.

Why Choose a Destination Wedding?

Let’s begin at the beginning! Why should you say “I Do” abroad?

  • It’s more than just a pretty backdrop. Destination weddings often feel more intimate and intentional. You’re inviting your closest people to celebrate in a setting that reflects you, not just the venue down the street.
  • You get more time with your guests. Unlike a traditional one-day whirlwind, destination weddings tend to stretch into full weekends (or more), giving you quality time with your favourite people.
  • It can actually be budget-friendly. Surprising, but true. Smaller guest lists, all-inclusive packages, and favourable exchange rates in some countries can make destination weddings more affordable than you’d think.
  • Built-in honeymoon? Don’t mind if you do!

Picking the Right Destination (For You and Your Guests)

A dreamy destination is only dreamy if it works logistically too. Especially when travelling from New Zealand, consider:

  • Is it easy to get to? Direct flights, nearby airports, and minimal layovers make a huge difference for guests (and your sanity).
  • What’s the best season to go? Look up local weather patterns—and yes, this includes hurricane seasons, monsoons, and peak tourist months.
  • Is it a good fit culturally? Be mindful of local customs, traditions, and language. (A planner fluent in the local scene is worth every penny—more on that later.)
  • What are the legal requirements? This one’s big. Some countries require you to be “in residence” for several days before the wedding. Others need translated documents or even blood tests (yes, really). Be informed so you don’t run into any surprises that can derail your day.

Legalities, Paperwork & The Case for a Symbolic Ceremony

Speaking of legality: getting legally married abroad can be...complicated. Every country has its own rules. Some are super straightforward. Others? Not so much.

To keep things simple, many couples choose to get legally married at home, then have a symbolic ceremony abroad. It feels exactly the same on the day, and it cuts down on paperwork stress.

If you do want to make it official internationally, here’s what you’ll want to figure out:

  • Residency requirements
  • Whether your home country recognises the marriage
  • What documents do you need to bring (often translated and notarised)
  • Waiting periods and officiant rules

When in doubt, ask your venue or planner—they’ve likely guided dozens of couples through it.

Start Planning Early (Like, Now)

Destination wedding timelines work a little differently. Since your dream venue might only host a few weddings a year or book up fast, early planning is key. Aim for 12 to 18 months out, especially for popular spots or peak seasons.

Your early to-do list should include…

  • Booking the venue and accommodations (consider a venue with on-site lodging or a room block nearby)
  • Securing your key vendors (some couples bring vendors with them; others source locally)
  • Giving guests a heads-up early (hello, save-the-dates!)

And yes, you can plan a destination wedding in less time—but just know, you’ll want help. Speaking of which…

Hire a Planner. Trust Me on This One.

Even the most organised couples can benefit from a destination wedding planner. Think of them as your on-the-ground problem solver, translator, negotiator, and fairy wedding godparent all rolled into one.

You have a few options, including…

  • Local planners in the destination know the area, vendors, and legal ins and outs
  • Planners from home who travel – great if you want someone who really gets your style, but might cost more (especially with travel)
  • Onsite venue coordinators – helpful, but often focused just on logistics for the venue itself, not your full vision

If you’re going the DIY route, at least consider a month-of coordinator to manage the moving pieces once you arrive.

Budgeting for a Wedding Abroad

You’ve seen the picture-perfect wedding in the Amalfi Coast or that beachfront Bali elopement—but here’s what couples don’t always talk about:

  • Currency exchange fluctuations (built-in wiggle room!)
  • Shipping or sourcing decor overseas (some things you just can’t bring in your suitcase, like that perfectly steamed dress!)
  • Vendor travel fees if you’re flying in photographers, stylists, or officiants
  • Extra costs for legal translations, permits, and documents

Want to be smart about it? Create two budgets: one for your wedding expenses, and one to help your guests navigate theirs (think group rates, hotel options, and transportation tips).

Don’t Forget About Guest Experience

You’re hosting an event and a travel experience, so think through how you’ll take care of your guests from the moment they book.

  • Build a wedding website with travel info, FAQs, and suggestions for things to do
  • Offer transportation help from the airport or between venues
  • Plan welcome events (even casual ones!) so guests can settle in and feel part of the magic

Some couples create custom itineraries, local welcome bags, or even host group excursions. You don’t have to go over the top—but little touches go a long way.

Add Personal Touches—No Matter Where You Are

Just because you’re getting married abroad doesn’t mean you have to settle for cookie-cutter.

  • Incorporate local traditions into the ceremony or dinner (think music, cuisine, or rituals)
  • Personalise with custom signage, welcome notes, or monogrammed menus
  • Embrace the style and architecture of your location into your decor and overall theme—it’s likely part of why you chose it!

Many venues offer “packages,” but don’t be afraid to ask what’s customizable. Your wedding should feel like yours, not just another weekend on the schedule.

What If You Want the Destination Vibe Without the Long-Haul Flight?

You don’t have to leave the country to get that destination wedding feel.

There are stateside venues that feel straight out of Tuscany or New Zealand—like clifftop vineyards, coastal estates, or private mountaintop retreats. If you want the magic of a destination without the passport stress, this can be the perfect middle ground.

Discover Unique US Wedding Venues Worth the Trip

If you’re making the journey to the USA, why not choose a venue that feels truly unforgettable? From vineyard views to mountaintop ceremonies, here are a few incredible options to consider:

Dream Big and Plan Smart

Booking any wedding venue can seem like a tall task, but booking abroad can be easier in some ways and more difficult in others.

And yes, it takes research, patience, and a good checklist or two—but the payoff? A celebration you’ll never forget, in a place that means something. Whether you're toasting in a French château or dancing barefoot in Mexico, the world’s a big, beautiful place to say “I do!”

To book your travel, contact some of our Destination Wedding Travel Agents.

Author bio: Gabbi Rubino is a Client Success Manager at Snowmad Digital. She works with wedding venues across the U.S. to create helpful, modern content for planning couples.