By Grecia Mejía, lead wedding planner at Sertuin Events
When to arrive
For a large destination wedding, arriving two or three days before the ceremony is safer than flying the same day. A five-day trip can provide two preparation days followed by time to relax. Flight delays are easier to manage when the schedule has room.
Where guests should stay
One hotel simplifies transportation, communication and arrival at the ceremony. Guests can stay elsewhere, but multiple properties create extra routes and a greater risk of delays. Send the planner the number of guests and each hotel as early as possible.
External resort access
A guest who is not staying at the wedding resort normally submits identification one or two days beforehand. The property may charge a day pass, which is usually paid by the visiting guest. Every resort has its own procedure, so follow the confirmed instructions rather than assuming access.
What to wear
For a daytime beach ceremony, choose loose, breathable resort clothing in white, pastel or the couple's stated dress-code colors. Avoid high heels in the sand. A hand fan, sunglasses and sunscreen are useful during the day. Sunscreen is unnecessary for a night ceremony, but the official dress code still applies.
Information every guest needs
Share the schedule, attire, venue location, transportation plan, hotel rules and coordinator contact. Keep the message short and centralized so guests do not follow conflicting versions.
Common mistakes
The two most common problems are underestimating travel time and drinking too much before the ceremony. Guests should be ready early and wait to celebrate heavily until the formal portion is complete. If a flight is delayed, contact the coordinator immediately so transportation and participation can be adjusted.
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