5 Tips for Planning the Perfect Dream Honeymoon
The time between when you book your wedding and the actual day is the perfect time to plan your honeymoon. This is the lull time, where you may be busy with other things, but you have some down time to research and plan your dream trip.
You deserve the honeymoon of your dreams, and this is the time to make it happen!
If you’re unsure where to start, consider the 5 W’s (and an H) for basic information gathering.
WHO is attending your honeymoon? As the bride and groom, the “who” is easy to answer. However, if you’re having a destination wedding with family and friends, it helps to consider who’ll be staying after the big day and what you’d like to do as a group. This way, it’ll be easier to plan some quality alone time too.
WHAT is your dream honeymoon and WHAT is your budget? Are you dreaming of sunny beaches, romantic cobbled streets, and snow-capped mountains? Whether it’s a cruise, a backpacking adventure, or a mini-moon close to home, the possibilities for your honeymoon are endless. Sit down early in your engagement to discuss what you’d like to do and choose a honeymoon that suits you both. Just remember you’ll also have the rest of your lives to enjoy traveling together!
Go ahead and picture yourselves lying on a beach in Fiji, but consider your budget first. After all, you don’t want to spend all your money immediately after your wedding. Is someone helping you pay for the honeymoon? Graciously communicate with them in advance to figure out the details. Alternatively, register at a travel agency to allow wedding guests to contribute.
If you don’t have anyone helping and you’re not sure what your budget will be, consider a low-key honeymoon or a mini-moon. This way, you’ll save money to help you get on your feet as a married couple. With extra cash in the bank, it’s easy to start saving for a bigger trip on your first anniversary.
WHERE to stay and WHERE to go?
Along with choosing your destination, it’s exciting to research and book flights, transport, accommodation, and activities in advance. If you’re thinking of renting a car, first consider your day-to-day activities. You may not need one if you love lazing on the beach at an all-inclusive resort, with easy access to cabs for nearby excursions.
For the freedom and luxury of driving wherever you like, my advice is to rent a car in advance to avoid paying at least twice as much when you get there. Other things to organize beforehand include booking activities and visiting people you know at your destination. To help you decide where to go and what to do, ask friends and family for recommendations. Also, visit online wedding boards to find restaurants and hot spots that other couples enjoyed.
WHEN to leave and WHEN to pack?
Traditionally, the bride and groom jet off to their honeymoon destination straight after the wedding. I get stressed just thinking about that! Luckily for us, this has changed over time. Many couples plan to leave a few days, weeks, or even a year after the wedding. This way, there’s more time to spend with wedding guests, recuperate after the big day (a must!), and save more money. The most important thing is to do whatever feels right and works for you.
Planning on leaving right after your wedding? The time to pack is well before the wedding weekend, so get everything you need about two weeks in advance. It’s a great idea to have a separate bag for the honeymoon and transfer any last-minute things before your ceremony. Even if you’re leaving a few days, weeks, or months after, planning ensures you’re not rushing around looking for a swimsuit in October!
WHY go on a honeymoon?
Along with candlelit dinners and cocktails by the pool, honeymoons allow couples space and privacy to bond during the initial days of marriage.
HOW excited are you?
Once the big stuff is nailed down with the details and dates in your calendar, relax and get excited! With an amazing honeymoon organized, you’ll have the last few weeks before your wedding to focus entirely on the big day. Phew!
Planning your honeymoon is a fun and exciting task!
It's time to make your dreams come true, so take your time and enjoy the process. By following these simple tips, you'll be on your way to the honeymoon of your dreams in no time! And when you’re ready to jump in and start planning, let’s chat.