destination wedding etiquette

changeling — Thu, 31 May 2007 10:39:53 -0800

We want to hold a destination wedding in Central America. How do we go about this without hurting feelings? How do we go about this at all? After five years of dating, he proposed at last:)

We're big travelers, and we're dead set on holding a destination wedding in Central America -- either Ambergris Caye, Belize, or Roatan, Honduras -- since we both feel white sand beaches and lobster barbecues trump centerpieces and cash bars any day.

However, destination wedding etiquette is obviously different from regular wedding etiquette. I've read we're only responsible to pay for the ceremony, the reception, and maybe a couple activities like snorkeling, while airfare and accommodations are up to the guests. Is this true? What about the wedding party (if we have one)? What about close family? What is standard?

We're aware far fewer people will be able to go, so we’re allowing plenty of time for people to save. (How much time is sufficient?) But what about friends who want to come but can’t afford it? We’ll probably throw a casual reception back home, but we know it’s not the same. What do we do about his 90-year-old conservative grandma? How do I deal with other conservative, even slightly xenophobic family members?

When it comes to the planning, should I just call an on-island resort and trust them to coordinate everything? I’m not a resort traveler myself, but I don’t know any alternatives. Plus, it would be nice for the conservatives.

I’d also like to hear about any destination weddings you’ve been to, or been through (especially in Central America). Thank you!

Ask MetaFilter questions tagged with ambergriscaye

destination wedding etiquette