Location
Factors to consider when choosing the location for you destination wedding include the expense of the location, the level of prowess needed to navigate local laws and requirements, available activities and amenities for you and your guests (theme parks, sports and recreation, spa services, outdoor activities, shopping), restaurant and accommodation options, and ease of travel to and from your locale. Barbados is one spot that provides all of the above; you can wed as soon as 24 hours after your arrival, and save up to 40% from May-November during their (still gorgeous) off-peak season. Your guests will also have an array of fabulous water-sports and activities to choose from in their downtime.

Availability
Check your date with close friends and family members. Remember, if you've chosen a faraway destination, don't expect all -- or even most -- of your guests to attend. Between time off for work and school and costly airline tickets and accommodations, attending your nuptials may be a lot to expect from even the dearest of friends. On the other hand, if you choose a particularly fabulous destination like the Barbados where the weather is perfect pretty much year-round, you may be surprised at how many well-wishers will be eager to join you on your big day.

Legal Requirements
Most marriage bureaus require a few basic documents in order to grant a marriage license. If yours will be a foreign wedding, contact that country's consulate to find out what to expect..

Travel Requirements
Find out what will be needed to safely and legally travel to and from your wedding destination. Contact your State Department or consulates for travel advisories and to find out about passport, visa and vaccination requirements.

Add It Up
Price airfare and lodging options, and be prepared to furnish estimated costs to friends and family. Before asking your attendants if they can participate in your wedding, be up front about what your wedding will cost them. Be absolutely clear about what costs you can -- and cannot -- cover, whether that be airfare, lodging, meals, or wedding day clothes.

Package Deals
Many hotels and resorts offer destination wedding "packages," where some or all wedding details are coordinated by on-site professional. A simple package may include a bride's bouquet and officiant. An elaborate package may include food, flowers, photography, champagne, cake, limo service, and a string quartet. If these services are available to you, by all means, take advantage of them. Having an expert coordinate the details of your destination wedding can be the nicest wedding gift you ever receive. Many resorts and hotels in Barbados offer this service.

Professional Help
If you are planning your destination wedding without a hotel or resort package, consider hiring a wedding coordinator on your own. Professional wedding planners can help you choose reliable vendors and venues, and often secure lower prices and better values. Search our Local Directory for planners who specialize in weddings in your dream destination.