How to Choose the Perfect Theme for Your Destination Wedding

Traditional Destination Wedding Theme

When it comes to destination weddings, especially those on the beach, a traditional theme is always a winner. Choose classic invitations with calligraphy and wax seals.  For your wedding dress, opt for a ballgown or lacy A-line dress. And don’t forget the flowers! Fill the ceremony space with romantic blooms in shades of white and ivory.

For your reception, classic white centerpieces, linens, and chandeliers against a beautiful beach backdrop will create an unforgettable setting for your big day. By incorporating these elements into your celebration, you’ll be able to create a timeless look that will wow your guests.

Tropical Destination Wedding Theme

If you’re looking to add a touch of paradise to your destination wedding, then a tropical theme is the way to go. To bring this theme to life, use lots of greenery and flowers in your decor. And don’t be afraid to use bold and vibrant colors.

For your invitations, go for a design that includes palm fronds or other tropical motifs. For your wedding dress, consider a flowing white gown with delicate lace details. And to complete the look, adorn your hair with fresh flowers.

Your reception should reflect the tropical setting of your wedding. Think bright and colorful centerpieces, tiki torches, and fun cocktails served in coconuts or pineapples. By incorporating these elements, you’ll be able to create a truly unforgettable tropical destination wedding.

Location-Inspired Destination Wedding Theme

If you’re getting married in a destination that’s rich with culture (which most are), it’s a great idea to channel those elements into your wedding. On your invitations, include a map of the city or country, and include a list of attractions for your guests to visit during their stay. Then use traditional elements in your décor.

If you’re getting married in Mexico, for example, you could include colorful Papel Picado banners, vibrant flowers, and folk art. You could also serve traditional Mexican food and drink at your reception, and hire mariachi bands, flamenco dancers, or other traditional performers to entertain your guests.

By incorporating the location into your wedding theme, you’ll be able to give your guests a truly unique and memorable experience.

Bohemian Destination Wedding Theme

For the free-spirited bride, a bohemian destination wedding is a perfect choice. Incorporate handmade elements into your invitations and décor, and choose a relaxed and flowy wedding dress.

For your wedding ceremony, decorate with natural woods, pampas grass, and wildflowers. And for your reception, continue the bohemian vibe with macramé details, candles, and plenty of greenery.

By incorporating these elements into your wedding, you’ll be able to create a relaxed and beautiful bohemian destination wedding.

Glamorous Destination Wedding Theme

For the chic bride, choose a glamorous theme that will make your wedding truly sparkle. For your invitations, go for a design that’s luxurious and elegant, with elements like metallics or acrylic. And for your wedding dress, choose a gown with lots of beads or rhinestones. To complete the look, add a sparkling tiara or veil.

At your reception, continue the glamorous theme with metallics, crystals, and candles. Use crystal chandeliers, floating candles, and overflowing bouquets to set the mood for the evening. You could also use a dramatic color scheme, like black and white, to create a truly glamorous setting.

By incorporating these elements into your destination wedding, you’ll be able to create a chic and luxurious celebration that your guests will never forget.

Coastal Destination Wedding Theme

If you’re getting married by the sea, make the most of your unique setting with a seaside-themed destination wedding. Use elements like shells, starfish, and sand dollars to decorate your invitations and wedding stationery. And for your wedding dress, consider a mermaid-style gown or a dress with a nautical-inspired print.

At your reception, decorate with shells, coral, and other ocean-inspired elements. Serve seafood appetizers and cocktails, and use a blue and white color scheme to create a serene and beautiful setting.

By incorporating these elements into your seaside-themed destination wedding, you’ll be able to create a truly unique and memorable celebration.

Garden Destination Wedding Theme

A garden destination wedding is a perfect choice for brides who want a romantic, rustic wedding. For your invitations, choose a design that features flowers, leaves, or other botanical elements. And for your wedding dress, consider a flowing gown with floral details. Or, choose to put your bridesmaids in mismatched, floral prints.

At your reception, use fresh flowers to decorate the tables and centerpieces. Serve a seasonal, farm-to-table meal, and use a natural color palette to create a beautiful and romantic setting.

By incorporating these elements into your garden-themed destination wedding, you’ll be able to create a truly stunning and romantic event.

Vintage Destination Wedding Theme

A vintage destination wedding is a perfect choice for brides who want to celebrate in style. For your invitations, choose a design that features antique elements, like a typewriter font or vintage postage stamps. And for your wedding dress, consider a tea-length gown or a dress with a retro-inspired print.

At your reception, carry the vintage theme through with elements like antique furniture, Edison bulbs, and a classic color palette. Have a jazz trio play at your cocktail hour, serve drinks like the old fashioned and the lemon drop, and dazzle your guests with a champagne tower.

By incorporating these elements into your vintage destination wedding, you’ll be able to create a true one-of-a-kind event.

Celestial Destination Wedding Theme

If you’re getting married at sunset or nighttime, or if you’re super into your star signs, a celestial-themed wedding is the perfect way to celebrate your nuptials. For your invitations, add a star chart of the night you’ll be getting married. And for your wedding dress, choose a gown with glittering details or an airy, ethereal design.

At your reception, use lanterns, candles, and market lighting to create a magical setting that mimics the stars. Serve celestial-inspired signature cocktails, with names like Shooting Star or the Northern Lights. And for your cake, consider a design that features stars, moons, or other celestial elements. Finish off the night with fireworks or a sparkler exit to really light up the night.

Rustic Destination Wedding Theme

A rustic destination wedding is a fantastic choice for brides who want a down-to-earth celebration, especially if you’re getting married at a ranch or vineyard. For your invitations, choose a design with rustic elements, like burlap or lace. And for your wedding dress, consider a gown with a simple design or a country-inspired print.

At your reception, use Mason jars and other rustic elements to decorate the tables and centerpieces. Serve comfort food like chicken and dumplings or pot roast, and use a natural color palette to create a warm and inviting setting.

By incorporating these elements into your rustic destination wedding, you’ll be able to create a truly memorable event.