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How do you go about planning a South Asian Destination Wedding? A step-by-step guide

Planning a wedding is a monumental task—planning a destination wedding adds a thrilling layer of adventure, logistics, and cultural celebration. For South Asian couples, the journey involves more than just picking a venue and packing a suitcase. It’s about honoring traditions, accommodating multiple events, managing guest travel, and creating a once-in-a-lifetime experience in an unfamiliar place.

At Destawed, we specialize in planning South Asian destination weddings from start to finish. Whether you're envisioning a multi-day wedding at a beachfront resort in Mexico, a vibrant celebration in Punta Cana, or a luxurious affair in Jamaica, our team ensures every detail reflects your vision, without the stress.

Here’s a complete guide on how to plan a South Asian destination wedding that’s seamless, joyful, and unforgettable.

Start with your vision

Before diving into logistics, take time to define your wedding vision. Think about the tone, size, and style of your celebration.

  • Do you see a colorful beachside ceremony surrounded by palm trees?

  • Will it be a multi-day affair with Mehndi, welcome dinner, main wedding, and reception?

  • Do you want a large gathering or something more intimate?

Defining your priorities early—whether it’s a stunning venue, incredible food, or the perfect decor—will help streamline every other decision.

Choose the right destination

Not all destinations are equally equipped to handle the needs of a South Asian wedding. You'll want a location that is not only beautiful but also vendor-friendly and logistically practical for your guests.

Top choices include:

  • Cancun & Riviera Maya, Mexico – Known for resort variety and ease of access.

  • Punta Cana, Dominican Republic – A favorite for beach weddings and all-inclusive options.

  • Jamaica – Perfect for unique venues and vibrant tropical settings.

When choosing your location, consider flight availability, visa requirements, weather, and whether the local resorts allow cultural flexibility for your events.

Budget wisely

One of the most common misconceptions about destination weddings is that they’re always more expensive. With the right planning, they can be cost-effective while still offering a luxury experience.

Make sure your budget includes:

  • Venue or resort bookings

  • Guest accommodations

  • Travel for the couple and key family members

  • Vendor services (decor, entertainment, makeup, photography)

  • Meals and custom catering (if needed)

  • Planning and coordination services

All-inclusive wedding packages can simplify the budgeting process, especially when paired with a planner who understands South Asian wedding needs.

Hire a South Asian Destination wedding planner

A destination wedding isn’t just about planning a ceremony—it’s about producing a full experience abroad. That’s why having a planner who understands South Asian weddings is critical.

Here’s what a planner like Destawed will do for you:

  • Help you choose the perfect destination and resort

  • Coordinate all events over multiple days

  • Recommend and book culturally experienced vendors

  • Communicate with local teams and resort staff

  • Troubleshoot behind the scenes so your family can enjoy every moment

From guest RSVPs to Baraat logistics to Sangeet lighting design—we handle it all.

Select a resort that understands your culture

South Asian weddings are multi-day, multi-event, and detail-rich. The resort or venue you select must have the space, flexibility, and understanding to support it all.

Ask potential venues:

  • Are multiple event spaces available?
  • Is external or custom catering allowed?
  • Are there indoor and outdoor options in case of rain?
  • Do they have a customizable south asian wedding package?
  • Can music and entertainment go on later in the evening?
  • Are cultural elements welcomed and supported?

At Destawed, we’ve vetted and worked with top venues like Hard Rock Punta Cana, Moon Palace Cancun, and Princess Grand Jamaica—each capable of hosting elegant and intricate South Asian weddings.

Secure Your Vendors

While some resorts offer in-house services, South Asian weddings often require specialized vendors who understand the customs, styling, and energy of the culture.

Vendors to consider:

  • Decorators and florists experienced in large-scale, vibrant designs

  • Hair and makeup artists familiar with South Asian bridal styles

  • DJs and musicians with knowledge of regional music and traditions

  • Photographers who can capture the flow of multi-event celebrations

  • Caterers who can offer or support authentic cuisine (if not handled in-house)

Your planner will help manage contracts, timelines, and delivery logistics, especially if vendors are flying in.

Organize Guest Travel and Accommodation

Guest experience is central to South Asian weddings. Your guests are traveling far to celebrate with you, so comfort and clarity matter. That’s why having a trusted travel partner is just as important as having a wedding planner.

At Destawed, we do both.

Our team of in-house travel specialists works hand-in-hand with our planners to coordinate:

  • Group flight bookings for you and your guests

  • Airport transfers and shuttle services

  • All-inclusive resort room blocks and custom packages

  • Travel documentation support and visa information

  • On-site guest assistance throughout the celebration

Legal vs. Symbolic Ceremonies

Many couples choose to have a legal ceremony in their home country and a symbolic wedding at the destination. This avoids the complexity of international marriage laws.

If you do want your marriage to be legally recognized in your destination:

  • Research documentation and legal requirements early

  • Ensure you arrive early enough to process paperwork locally

  • Understand translation, witness, and residency rules

Your planner can guide you on whether to go symbolic or legal, and what works best based on your timeline and travel plans.

Build a Multi-Day Itinerary

South Asian destination weddings often include:

  • A welcome event or dinner

  • Mehndi celebration

  • Sangeet or evening party

  • Wedding ceremony

  • Reception (sometimes same day, sometimes the next)

Spacing out your events allows for a more relaxed pace and gives guests time to rest, explore, and enjoy the destination.

At Destawed, we help you build a detailed itinerary, coordinate venue transitions, and ensure each event feels unique while staying cohesive.

Personalize the Experience

Your wedding should reflect who you are as a couple—your families, backgrounds, and personalities.

Here are a few ways to personalize your destination wedding:

  • Create custom welcome bags for guests

  • Add personal notes or elements to your decor

  • Infuse local culture into your menu or entertainment

  • Choose meaningful colors, music, or ceremonial elements that reflect your roots

And don’t forget to build in time to enjoy it all—with your partner, your family, and your friends.

Planning a destination wedding should be exciting, not exhausting. With the right destination, a trusted team, and thoughtful planning, your South Asian celebration abroad can be seamless and extraordinary.

BLOGS

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