Boutique Travel PR Agency Unveils Key Destination Wedding Trends

Destination weddings have long been a dream for many couples – it provides an intimate and picturesque backdrop for one of the most important days of newlyweds’ lives. Couples are exploring creative ways to create memories of a lifetime with destination weddings by including multi-day itineraries of events such as wine tastings, outdoor activities, sightseeing tours, and local cultural events.

Did you know . . .

• “The average budget for a destination wedding is $28,000.”  (Source:  Weddings by Numbers
• The destination weddings market “will be worth more than $78 billion by 2027.” (Source:  Forbes)
• “Twenty-five percent of weddings are destination weddings.” (Source:  World Metrics Report).

In this blog, Allen Marketing Communications, Inc., a boutique travel and lifestyle public relations agency based in New York City, showcases key destination wedding trends.

Eco-Friendly Destination Weddings

Sustainability is a major wedding trend in 2024 because couples are increasingly aware of their environmental impact. Destination weddings incorporate the following sustainable practices.

• Zero-waste decorations
• Locally sourced organic food
• Eco-conscious venues
• Environment-friendly catering solutions such as dried banana leaves or clay pot glasses.

Many resorts and destinations are now offering green wedding packages – digital invitations, biodegradable confetti, and reusable decor. This new trend reduces newlyweds’ carbon footprint.

Micro-Wedding Celebrations

Micro weddings allow for smaller, more intimate gatherings with close family and friends.  It also allows for more personalized experiences and meaningful interactions.
Destination micro-weddings often take place in secluded locations, such as private villas, boutique hotels, or charming countryside estates, offering a serene and exclusive setting.

Experiential Weddings

Experiential weddings enable couples to create unforgettable experiences by offering activities such as guided tours, adventure excursions, and cultural experiences. It allows guests to immerse themselves in the destination. These fun activities – wine tastings, a safari tour, or a beach bonfire – add an extra layer of excitement to the wedding celebration.

Technology Integration For The Selection Of The Venue

Virtual reality (VR) tours of potential venues and augmented reality (AR) features in wedding apps are also becoming popular, helping future Mr. and Mrs. plan their dream wedding more efficiently and creatively.

By incorporating technology into destination weddings, couples can offer live-streaming ceremonies for guests who cannot attend in person to using drones for stunning aerial photography.

Open your Taste Buds To Local Flavors & Traditions

Couples are increasingly integrating local cuisine, music, traditions and even dresses into their weddings. This trend supports the local economy and it also provides the wedding guests with an authentic and immersive experience of the location.

Multi-Day Wedding Celebrations

Multi-day wedding celebrations enable couples and their guests to fully enjoy the destination and spend quality time together. It often includes welcome parties, rehearsal dinners, post-wedding brunches, and other activities. People can add their local experiences and customs to make it more fun and colorful.

Natural & International Décor

The nature-inspired, minimalist decor has resonated with many couples.  Clean lines, neutral color palettes, and organic materials such as wood and stone create an elegant and timeless aesthetic.

By incorporating local flowers and foliage, couples can truly showcase the natural beauty of a destination.

Off Season Weddings

Off-season destination weddings – late fall, winter, or early spring – can save couples significant savings on venues, accommodations, and flights. Destinations with tropical beaches, winter wonderlands, or even cultural cities provide unique settings that are just as enchanting off-season.

Our talented team of travel and lifestyle PR and social media professionals can help hospitality executives capture market share in the lucrative destination weddings market. Contact us today.

By Joanna Allen, chief executive officer, Allen Marketing Communications, Inc.