(last updated December 2025)
Short Answer: Most destination weddings with guests should begin planning 12–18 months in advance to secure the best resort venues, dates, and room block terms. Popular resorts limit the number of weddings they host, and coordinating venues, contracts, and on-site teams takes time, especially across time zones. Starting early also gives guests proper notice to plan, budget, and attend comfortably, which often leads to a better overall experience.
One of the reasons destination weddings are so appealing is that they feel bigger than a single day.
It’s not just a ceremony. It’s a trip. A few days away. Time with your favorite people in a beautiful place that feels nothing like home.
That part is exciting. And it should be.
But destination weddings also come with a layer most couples don’t see at first… timing matters more than you expect.
Most Couples Already Have the Vision
By the time couples reach out to us, they usually know what they want their wedding to look like.
A wide, open beach.
A private gazebo.
A cenote that feels dramatic and unforgettable.
That vision is important.
What surprises most people is that those venues aren’t endlessly available. Resorts can only host a limited number of weddings each year. Some of the most sought-after locations will only host one wedding per day… sometimes only a few per week.
That’s why starting early matters.
The earlier we begin planning, the more options we have.
The more flexibility you have with dates, the better our chances of securing the exact venue you’re dreaming of.
Finding the right resort, the right venue inside that resort, and a date that actually works takes time. It’s not as simple as clicking a calendar online. We’re reaching out to wedding teams, waiting for confirmations, and coordinating across time zones.
And yes… island time is very real.
While the Aisle + Away team is pushing from here, we’re often working on the response timelines of teams based in destination. That’s normal. We talk through this early so expectations stay realistic and frustration stays low.
So… How Early Should You Start?
For most destination weddings with guests, we recommend starting 12–18 months in advance.
Here’s why.
This timeline gives us room to:
- Secure the best venues before dates fill
- Negotiate favorable room block terms
- Build a realistic planning calendar
- Give your guests proper notice to plan and budget
Shorter timelines can work, but they usually come with trade-offs. Fewer venue options. Less date flexibility. More pressure on decisions.
What about elopements?
If we aren’t worrying about room blocks, elopements can often be planned in 8–6 months, especially if you’re flexible with dates. Many resorts host elopements on weekdays, which can actually work in your favor. Less competition and more availability.
Timing Isn’t Just About Logistics… It’s About Your Guests
This is the part that often gets overlooked.
A destination wedding is a financial investment for your guests.
They need time to:
- Request time off
- Budget for travel
- Plan payments comfortably instead of rushing
Most room block contracts require rooms to be paid in full about 90 days before travel. That means guests aren’t just paying at the last minute. They’re committing months in advance.
Starting your planning earlier gives your guests breathing room. It allows them to plan ahead instead of scrambling. And that usually leads to higher attendance and a better experience for everyone.
In other words… starting early isn’t just good for you. It’s considerate.
Why This Phase Takes Longer Than People Expect
Choosing the resort, venue, and date is one of the most important phases of the entire planning process.
It’s also the one that takes the longest.
We’re balancing:
- Venue availability
- Resort wedding caps
- Group contract terms
- Response times from on-site teams
- Your priorities and flexibility
That’s normal. It’s not a delay. It’s the process.
And this is where having a specialist matters. Someone who knows what’s normal, what’s worth waiting for, and when to pivot without losing momentum.
The Big Picture
This isn’t a race. Giving yourself enough time turns planning from stressful into enjoyable… and that’s when the whole experience starts to feel really good.
