To Flee or Not to Flee Times Three

Friends of ours recently got engaged (!!) and have been debating with the idea of a destination wedding versus a local wedding (ceremony and reception).  While both options are totally acceptable, I thought it would be a great time to showcase some "pros and cons" that we think may benefit not only our friends, but hopefully other couples who may be in their own debate.  This also follows a previous post we did on Destination Weddings that you may also find useful!

Destination Weddings (DWs):
Pros: 
1.  It's like a non-stop good time from the second you land!  Let's face it. Everyone's in a good mood! It's a vacation for most and a special time for all.  "Aloha!" anyone?  ;)
2.  Most things are coordinated and/or inclusive, depending on the resort you select.  For most, this is a good thing because trying to coordinate several vendors when you don't live in state/country can be a royal pain you-know-where.
3.  It's less traditional.  Most destination weddings are not as large as traditional ones that you may have back home.  While you might invite 150 guests to your DW in the Dominican Republic, don't be surprised if at least 40% politely decline or if 70% accept. It seriously could swing either way! Some just might not be able to afford it or get the time off, or, it might just work out the complete opposite!  (Aside: Why you may ask? Group rates can be pretty juicy, many resorts may offer wedding specials and families might make it their annual trip!)

Cons:
1.  You have less control over planning your wedding. Depending on where your destination is, you might have to deal with time zone issues or just a plain ol' different lifestyle. Their sense of service may totally differ from that of a NY or LA venue.  Also, unless you have the luxury of visiting your destination several times before the wedding, you may have to rely on computer images or snail mail for picking out samples, flowers or linen.
2.  You have to be okay with having your wedding + honeymoon on site, with family.  Don't get me wrong, I heart family, but you do realize you're relinquishing your right to total privacy. What, you don't think Mommy Dearest will have your room phone #? LOL If this doesn't apply to you, or if quite frankly this one isn't an issue for you - kuddos and move on! ;)
3.  It takes a bit more coordination on everyones part. You (or your planner - hint, hint) have to make sure everyone's got their flight plans in order and on time, hotels are booked and that everyone has all their personal items.  If anyone's in your bridal party, they should be fully packed and ready to go. Once you all get on your way, it's probably going to be difficult to turn back for something.  You especially have to make sure you've got everything ready and ahead of schedule to be safe. It takes lots of coordination so plan well!

Local Weddings
Pros:
1.  You have more control over planning your wedding.  Things are closer and so are people.  Naturally, you have more say in what's going on.  You can make site visits and physically see flowers and linen of choice.
2.  You're likely to have majority of your guests show.  While DWs can go either way, you have a better chance of a larger turn out if it's a local one.  I mean, unless there are previous engagements, who wouldn't want a lovely day/night of dinner and dancing celebrating a special moment in someone's life? 
3.  You tend to have more options.  You are likely to have the freedom to choose your own vendors to work with you, unlike many resorts.  They tend to be affiliated with certain florists or in-house caterers that you either have to love, like or deal with.

Cons:
1.  It may be more costly.  While this is entirely subjective on how many actually attend, your catering package, etc., etc., when compared strictly to Destination Weddings which tend to be smaller - yes, it may be more costly.  But in all honesty, there should be a budget that everyone's comfortable with...regardless of whether it's a DW or a local one.  If that's done, this "con" might not matter.
2.  It may be more stressful.  With a DW, you're likely to have much of your wedding in a "packaged bundle" of some sort so it alleviates a lot of the planning stress (not necessarily a bad thing if managed right!) commonly found in local weddings. Just like how organization is really important for DWs, planning is just as important here. Finding a florist, entertainment, a photographer, etc. will take time if you want it done right.
3.  Creating the exotic vibe you were seeking in a DW might be difficult. If you were debating between a DW and a local wedding, well then you were likely considering something exotic like the CCaribbean, Mexico or something like that for your wedding. What if you don't have beaches nearby? While it's always possible to create a tropical or exotic feel to a local wedding, it just takes some more creativity (so yes, totally still possible!)

So, what are your thoughts?  If you're a bride/groom, what are you having and why?

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Gabriela is the partner and certified wedding/special event consultant for No Limit Events LLC as well as the main writer for the company blog, No Limit Events LLC: Bloggin’ It. She enjoys sharing fun and unique wedding ideas, which include helpful wedding and party related posts, inspirational photos and advice for those planning special celebrations. Gabriela lives in New Jersey with her husband and business partner, Justin, and their 2 lovable cats. Planning a luxurious wedding or special party? Please visit her blog and website for specials and helpful advice.