Why a Destination Wedding in Europe is the Ultimate Dream

A destination wedding isn’t just about saying “I do” in a beautiful location—it’s about creating an unforgettable experience. This year, I have the pleasure of working with several couples from the USA who are travelling to the UK and France for their weddings, and the reasons they chose to do so are as varied as they are exciting.

The rich history of Europe adds an undeniable charm. From majestic castles to literary landmarks, the atmosphere is simply magical for history buffs and travel lovers alike. Others have been pleasantly surprised to find that hosting a wedding in Europe can actually be more affordable than tying the knot in their home state.

And then there’s the joy of turning your wedding into a full-on adventure. A destination wedding often means a smaller, more intimate celebration, allowing couples to spend real quality time with their nearest and dearest. It’s not just a wedding—it’s a holiday, an experience, and a story to tell for a lifetime.

One of the best decisions couples can make when planning a destination wedding? Working with a celebrant! Taking care of the legal paperwork back home means you can have your ceremony anywhere your heart desires. And that’s where I come in—ready to create a bespoke, meaningful ceremony that reflects your love story.

Top 5 Tips for Planning a Destination Wedding in Europe

Planning a wedding overseas comes with its own unique set of considerations. To help you navigate the process, here are my top five tips for planning the perfect destination wedding in Europe.

1. Choose the Right Location for Your Dream Wedding

Europe is packed with stunning wedding destinations—but the key is finding one that suits your vision. Do you picture yourself exchanging vows in a fairy-tale château in France, or is a historic house in the UK more your style? Perhaps the romantic streets of Paris or the dramatic cliffs of Scotland call to you.

When choosing a location, consider:

• The accessibility for your guests
• The climate and season of your wedding date
• The legal requirements of the country

This is where working with a celebrant is invaluable! By handling the legal paperwork in your home country, you’re free to pick any location that speaks to you—whether it’s a vineyard in Bordeaux or a historic estate in the Cotswolds.

2. Hire a Local Wedding Planner (and a Celebrant!)

Having professionals on the ground makes all the difference. A local wedding planner can help with venue selection, supplier coordination, and handling any cultural or language barriers.

Meanwhile, a celebrant-led wedding gives you the flexibility to personalise your ceremony in a way that wouldn’t be possible with a registrar or a religious officiant. Your celebrant will work with you to craft a meaningful, tailored ceremony that captures your love story perfectly. 

And we are often happy to travel to where you are. Over the years I’ve officiated ceremonies all over the UK, France, Mexico, Spain, Poland and Finland. I LOVE to travel to you!

3. Give Your Guests Plenty of Time to Prepare

A destination wedding means guests will need to travel, so giving them ample notice is crucial. Ideally, send Save the Dates at least 12 months in advance so guests can plan accordingly.

Consider setting up a wedding website where you can provide details on travel options, accommodation recommendations, and any pre- or post-wedding events.

Bonus tip: Many couples now host a welcome dinner or farewell brunch to make the most of the time with their guests. After all, when everyone’s travelled so far, it’s worth soaking up every moment together!

4. Think About the Weather (and Plan for It!)

Europe’s weather can be unpredictable, so always have a backup plan. If you’re dreaming of an outdoor wedding, consider providing parasols for shade and ensuring there’s a sheltered option in case of rain.

For weddings in England or Scotland, where the weather can be particularly temperamental, a venue with an indoor option is a must. Trust me, there’s something incredibly romantic about a cosy, candle-lit ceremony inside a grand historic hall if the heavens decide to open!

5. Embrace the Local Culture and Cuisine

One of the best things about a destination wedding in Europe is the opportunity to incorporate local traditions and flavours into your day. Imagine:

• A French wedding with exquisite wine, cheese boards, and a croquembouche instead of a traditional cake.
• An English countryside affair with afternoon tea and a stunning stately home as your backdrop.
• An Italian wedding feast with homemade pasta, fresh truffles, and limoncello toasts.

One of my 2025 couples have planned a cooking class for their guests who will learn how to cook the local cuisine before sharing a meal together. Another couple have planned a treasure hunt taking in some of the local sights such as Stonehenge and Salisbury!

Adding these local elements makes your wedding not just a ceremony, but a cultural experience that you and your guests will remember forever.

Make Your Destination Wedding a Reality

If a destination wedding in Europe is calling your name, I’d love to help make your ceremony truly unforgettable. Whether it’s an elegant château in France, a historic house in England, or anywhere else your heart desires, I’m here to create a wedding that’s as unique as your love story.

Contact me today to bring your European wedding dreams to life!