No Monday Musings this week because they’d be the exact same as last week! Heading into week two of our vacation! I didn’t want to leave you with no post though so here are some tips if you are thinking of having a destination wedding!

Last month we had the honor of shooting a wedding in Las Vegas! It was so much fun and now I want to take all my wedding portraits at the Bellagio :)

Destination weddings are becoming more and more popular as couples want a smaller, more intimate affair with family. They can take those they love to a new fun destination where they can get a vacation as well as be a part of the celebration. The first one I ever attended was on the Outer Banks and the couple rented a huge house for their friends and family. Everyone stayed together and got plenty of quality time. Plus it was so relaxed and no one was rushed to get anywhere or to do anything. The bride got up and got ready leisurely and then when she was ready walked out onto the beach and go married! It was so much fun.

In Vegas, we also had several days to spend together and lots of time to celebrate the bride and groom before the actual day. So if you are thinking this is more your style then today’s post is for you!

There are a lot of things you need on a wedding day and we have a list of these in our Bridal Guide we send out to all our couples but if you are getting married out of town then the list grows. Since you can’t just run home to grab it – here is a list of everything you shouldn’t forget for your destination wedding! Some of these may be obvious, but better to have it and check it off then forget!

• Official ID or documentation to get your marriage license. Since it may be out of the state or country, make sure you have all the paperwork needed to make it official!
• Wedding dress with all the accessories! Do NOT check it if you are flying though. Carry it on and there are closets where the Flight Attendant can hang it for you.
• Veil/Hair accessories
• Jewelry
• Shoes
• Undergarments
• Garter
• Sash
• His tux/suit with all the accessories
• Shoes
• Pocket square
• Watch or other jewelry
• Cufflinks
• Suspenders
• Shirt! (You’d be surprised how often grooms or groomsmen forget a button down shirt)
• Socks
• Copy of your invitation (for those detail photos!)
• Rings (all 3!)
• Dress to leave in or change into
• Something borrowed/something blue
• Your signature perfume
• Welcome bags for guests
• Bridal Party Gifts
• Copies of all  your vendor and venue contracts and paperwork, plus their contact information
• Your vows
• Cake Topper
• Any reception details – escort cards, table numbers, menus, centerpieces (a lot of times these can be supplied by the venue)
• Ceremony items – Unity Candle, Sand ceremony etc.
• Guestbook
• All your makeup and hair products to get ready on your big day!
• If it’s tropical: Swimsuit and beach gear
• Anything for the honeymoon if you are staying after to enjoy your destination – including lingerie!
• All the other outfits you’ll need :) Think through all the plans you have for your stay: Casual brunch? Resort Excursion? Fun night on the town? Make sure you have an outfit for each.

What did I miss? Anything you think is crucial for a destination wedding? Let me know in the comments below? And click HERE for a free printable checklist of the above!