Planning a destination wedding but unsure what it might cost? Our destination wedding budget calculator is designed to give you a personalized estimate based on your preferences. Simply select your preferences for guest count, photography, entertainment, décor, and venue upgrades to get a realistic estimate tailored to your dream wedding. While final costs will vary by location, resort, and details, this tool is a great first step when considering a destination wedding. 

You’ve got a sense of the budget—now let’s bring the vision to life.
Schedule your complimentary consultation and let’s start planning a destination wedding that’s effortless, personal, and unforgettable.

Most destination weddings range from $10,000 to $40,000, though costs vary significantly based on
location, guest count, and customizations. An intimate ceremony with 20 guests at an all-inclusive resort in Mexico might cost $12,000-$18,000, while a larger celebration with 75+ guests and premium
upgrades can exceed $35,000. Our calculator helps you build a realistic budget based on your
specific vision

How much does a Destination wedding cost on average?

What's Typically Included in a Destimation Wedding 

Base destination wedding packages usually include the ceremony venue, officiant, basic décor (such
as chair setup and a simple arch), wedding coordination, and sometimes a sparkling wine toast.
Photography, videography, DJ entertainment, upgraded florals, specialty lighting, and reception
upgrades are typically additional costs, which is why we built this calculator to help you see the full picture.

How many guests should I invite to a destination wedding

There is no right number for a destination wedding, only what feels right for you. Destination weddings range anywhere from 30 to 15 guests with the average being 40-50. Location, budget, and how comfortable your guests are with travel are determining factors. Inviting more people does not mean everyone will attend, since travel tends to narrow the final guest count on its own. The goal is choosing a destination and resort that can comfortably support your vision, whether you are planning an intimate gathering or a larger celebration weekend.

What's the best destination for a budget-friendly wedding?

Mexico's Riviera Maya and Cancun regions offer exceptional value with stunning all-inclusive resorts,
beautiful beaches, and established wedding programs. The Dominican Republic (especially Punta
Cana) and Jamaica are also popular for budget-conscious couples. These destinations combine
affordability with convenience, and most guests can reach them with a relatively short flight, and
all-inclusive packages simplify planning.

What's the best destination for a luxury wedding?

For couples seeking a luxury experience, St. Lucia offers dramatic Piton mountain views and
world-class resorts like Jade Mountain. The Turks and Caicos islands provide pristine beaches with
an exclusive feel. In Mexico, the Riviera Maya has several ultra-luxury options including adults-only
resorts with premium wedding programs. 

When should I start planning a destination wedding?

We recommend starting 12-18 months before your desired wedding date. This timeline allows you to
secure your preferred resort and dates (especially important for peak seasons like December-April),
book flights while prices are reasonable, and give guests adequate time to plan their travel. For
popular resorts or holiday weekends, booking even earlier is advisable

Are destination weddings cheaper than traditional weddings?

Often, yes. The average U.S. wedding costs over $40,000++, while many destination weddings come in
under $25,000. You'll typically have a smaller guest list (which reduces per-person costs), and
all-inclusive resorts bundle many services together at package rates. However, you may choose to
contribute to guest travel or accommodations, which adds to your overall investment. 

What hidden costs should I watch for?

Common expenses couples overlook include: travel costs for yourselves and potentially family
members, welcome bags for guests, group excursions or activities, tips for resort staff and vendors,
marriage license fees, dress and suit preservation for travel, and any legal requirements for marrying
abroad. We recommend budgeting an additional 10-15% beyond your calculator estimate for these extras.

Ready to Start Planning Your Destination Wedding?

Now that you have a budget estimate, the next step is turning your vision into reality. As destination wedding specialists, we handle every detail from resort selection and contract negotiation to coordinating with local vendors and managing guest travel.