However, wedding planning from afar comes with unique challenges. From selecting the perfect venue to coordinating travel logistics, knowing how to plan a seamless celebration is what makes a destination wedding happen. 

This guide will help you navigate each step.

12+ Months Before: Choose Your Destination and Set a Budget

The first step in how to plan a destination wedding is selecting the ideal location. Consider factors such as travel accessibility, weather, and guest experience when narrowing down your options. 

Once you have a destination in mind, establish a realistic budget that accounts for venue costs, accommodations, vendor fees, and travel expenses.

Key Tasks:

1. Research destinations that fit your vision and guest needs
2. Set a budget and determine your guest count
3. Hire a wedding planner with experience in destination weddings
4. Start exploring venues and available dates

9-12 Months Before: Secure the Venue and Send Save-the-Dates

Once you’ve chosen your dream venue, lock in your date as early as possible. That’s because destination wedding locations book up quickly. 

With the venue secured, send out save-the-dates so guests can make travel arrangements.

Key Tasks:

1. Book your wedding venue and accommodations
2. Research and book key vendors (photographer, videographer, florist, etc.)
3. Send save-the-dates with travel information
4. Set up a wedding website for guest details and itinerary
   

6-9 Months Before: Plan Guest Accommodations and Finalize Details

By this stage, focus on making travel and lodging easy for your guests. Work with your venue or a travel coordinator to secure a room block, provide transportation options, and finalize major details like your wedding menu and entertainment.

Key Tasks:

1. Finalize travel logistics and room blocks for guests
2. Book catering, entertainment, and decor services
3. Schedule dress fittings and finalize attire for the wedding party
4. Plan group activities for guests leading up to the big day

3-6 Months Before: Handle Legal Requirements and Final Touches

Depending on your destination wedding location, you may need to meet specific legal requirements for your marriage to be recognized. Research necessary documentation, apply for any required permits, and ensure everything is in order well in advance.

Key Tasks:

1. Research marriage license requirements for your destination
2. Order wedding bands and finalize ceremony details
3. Book spa treatments, hair, and makeup appointments
4. Confirm all vendor contracts and create a day-of timeline

1-3 Months Before: Send Invitations and Prepare for Travel

As the big day approaches, send out official wedding invitations and remind guests of travel deadlines. Prepare for your own trip by creating a packing list and confirming all wedding-day details with your planner and vendors.

Key Tasks:

1. Send wedding invitations with RSVP instructions
2. Confirm guest accommodations and itinerary
3. Create a packing checklist for wedding attire and essentials
4. Check in with vendors for final confirmations

Wedding Week: Arrive Early and Take Time to Enjoy the Moment

Arriving at your destination wedding location a few days early allows you to settle in, oversee final details, and welcome guests as they arrive. Also, take this time to relax, enjoy the scenery, and embrace the special moments leading up to your wedding day.

Key Tasks:

1. Do a final walk-through of the venue with your planner
2. Meet with vendors for last-minute coordination
3. Enjoy welcome events with guests and take time to relax
4. Get ready for the big day!

The Perfect Destination Wedding Awaits at Garden of the Gods Resort and Club

When it comes to hosting an unforgettable destination wedding, no place compares to Garden of the Gods Resort and Club recognized as the #1 location in the U.S. for Destination Weddings.

Nestled against the stunning backdrop of the Rocky Mountains, our resort offers breathtaking ceremony and reception venues, luxury accommodations, and world-class amenities to make your wedding truly magical. 

Whether you envision an intimate celebration or a grand affair, our expert wedding team will handle every detail.

Ready to say “I do” in the most picturesque setting? Contact us today to start planning your dream wedding at Garden of the Gods Resort and Club.

The post How to Plan a Seamless Destination Wedding: What to Do and When appeared first on Garden of the Gods Resort & Club.

5. Château de Vaux-le-Vicomte – France

For a regal wedding fit for royalty, Château de Vaux-le-Vicomte in France is an extraordinary option. This lavish 17th-century château is an architectural masterpiece, offering elegant ballrooms, enchanting gardens, and grand fountains that transport guests to a bygone era of luxury.

Why It’s Perfect for 2025:

1. Historic château with breathtaking gardens and fountains
2. Exclusive venue with customizable wedding packages
3. Close proximity to Paris for easy travel access

Location: Maincy, France
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4. Haiku Mill – Maui, Hawaii

For a blend of tropical beauty and Old World charm, Haiku Mill in Maui is a dream come true. This former sugar mill turned wedding venue offers lush greenery, cascading vines, and stunning ruins, making it a one-of-a-kind spot for couples looking for something unique.

Why It’s Perfect for 2025:

1. Unique historical venue with a romantic garden setting
2. Intimate and exclusive atmosphere
3. Custom wedding experiences with Hawaiian-inspired details

Location: Maui, Hawaii
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3. Villa Balbiano – Lake Como, Italy

For couples who want a wedding setting that makes them feel like they are in a fairy tale, Villa Balbiano in Lake Como is one of the most breathtaking destination wedding venues 2025 will offer. This historic 16th-century estate features opulent interiors, manicured gardens, and unparalleled lakefront views — creating a luxurious atmosphere for an unforgettable wedding.

Why It’s Perfect for 2025:

1. Iconic Lake Como backdrop with stunning architecture
2. Exclusive villa rental for a private, intimate experience
3. High-end catering and event planning services

Location: Lake Como, Italy
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2. The Ocean Club – Bahamas

If your dream destination wedding involves turquoise waters and pristine beaches, The Ocean Club in the Bahamas is a perfect choice. This exclusive Four Seasons resort offers private beachfront ceremonies, lush gardens, and five-star service to make your special day unforgettable.

Why It’s Perfect for 2025:

1. Stunning oceanfront ceremony locations
2. Personalized wedding packages with luxury accommodations
3. World-class dining and spa experiences

Location: Paradise Island, Bahamas
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1. Garden of the Gods Resort and Club – Colorado Springs, CO

When it comes to breathtaking destination wedding venues in 2025, Garden of the Gods Resort and Club is unmatched. Nestled in the heart of Colorado Springs, this luxury resort offers sweeping views of the iconic red rock formations and the majestic Rocky Mountains.

Beyond the stunning scenery, Garden of the Gods Resort and Club provides exceptional wedding services, including customizable catering, spa and wellness experiences, and luxury accommodations for you and your guests. 

Whether you’re planning an intimate elopement or a grand celebration, this venue offers a perfect blend of natural beauty and sophisticated charm.

Why It’s perfect for 2025:

1. Unparalleled views of Garden of the Gods and Pikes Peak
2. Luxury accommodations, wellness spa, and championship golf course
3. Personalized wedding planning and catering services

Location: Colorado Springs, CO
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Say “I Do” at the #1 Destination Wedding Venue in 2025

While all of these destination wedding venues in 2025 offer unforgettable settings, Garden of the Gods Resort and Club stands out as the ultimate location for couples seeking a mix of natural beauty, luxury, and impeccable service. 

With breathtaking red rock formations, stunning mountain views, and all-inclusive wedding services, it’s the perfect place to celebrate your love.

Start planning your dream wedding today — contact Garden of the Gods Resort and Club.

The post Top 5 Destination Wedding Venues for a Picture-Perfect Ceremony in 2025 appeared first on Garden of the Gods Resort & Club.

1. Reflection Pool

If you’re searching for the most iconic and sought-after wedding venues in Colorado Springs, the Reflection Pool is the perfect choice. Set against a breathtaking backdrop of Pikes Peak and the striking red rock formations of Garden of the Gods, this tranquil outdoor space provides a dreamy setting for ceremonies and receptions. Recently ranked the #2 Best Resort in the World for a Destination Wedding by USA Today’s 10Best, our resort offers unmatched elegance and romantic charm.

Why Couples Love It:

• Spectacular views of Pikes Peak and Garden of the Gods
• Romantic ambiance perfect for outdoor ceremonies
• Stunning natural beauty for unforgettable photos

2. The View at Kissing Camels

True to its name, The View at Kissing Camels offers a spectacular setting overlooking the Kissing Camels rock formation and the championship golf course. With an open, airy space designed to capture Colorado’s natural beauty, this venue is ideal for both ceremonies and receptions.

Why Couples Love It:

• Panoramic views of Pikes Peak and Garden of the Gods
• Indoor-outdoor flow for seamless event transitions
• Perfect setting for classic and modern wedding aesthetics

“Our guests were blown away by the view, the service, the food, and the overall facility. As a bride planning a wedding from a different state (Oklahoma), I was a little nervous about the planning process and keeping up with changes but everything turned out better than I had ever expected. The food was wonderful and there were so many options to fit my budget. The wedding suite was beautiful and had an unbelievable view. Thank you to all of the wonderful staff for all of your hard work! Our wedding day was a dream!”

-Katherine R

3. Garden Room & Terrace

If you’re looking for a wedding venue in Colorado Springs that blends timeless elegance with intimacy, the Garden Room & Terrace is a perfect match. With large picture windows and beautiful natural lighting, this venue offers a warm and welcoming atmosphere for up to 150 guests. The terrace allows for an outdoor element, whether it’s an alfresco cocktail hour or a romantic sunset ceremony.

Why Couples Love It:

• Versatile space that can be customized for any wedding style
• Cozy indoor setting with breathtaking natural light
• Seamless indoor-outdoor experience

“Definitely the best in Colorado in my book. The staff were incredibly helpful and always willing to work with us and answer any and every question I could come up with. They listened to what my vision was and made it happen. My wedding day went so smoothly and I was so relaxed the entire day! You always hear about that one thing that went wrong, but my wedding day was so perfect! Just what I wanted. And so stress free! They were so accommodating with their fabulous customer service. Every detail went perfectly!”

-Fait

4. Three Graces Ballroom & Terrace

For couples planning a larger reception, the Three Graces Ballroom & Terrace provides ample space and versatile options for celebrating with up to 250 guests. The venue features a welcoming foyer with floor-to-ceiling windows, creating an inviting entryway filled with natural light. The adjoining terrace provides a charming outdoor area with partial mountain views — perfect for cocktail hours or mingling under the stars.

Why Couples Love It:

• Ideal space for large wedding receptions
• Private, versatile indoor ballroom layout
• Terrace space for outdoor cocktail gatherings

“Garden of the Gods Resort is the best Colorado has to offer… Nowhere can compare to the amazing views and backdrop of the venue. The food was amazing and the staff was so easy to work with. Staff was professional and willing to answer all my questions, including little details that I insisted on. Garden of the Gods Resort is the perfect place for a wedding.”

-Kenzie.

5. Hill Room & Terrace

A hidden gem at Garden of the Gods Resort and Club, the Hill Room & Terrace offers a unique circular design with expansive windows that frame the red rock formations. This venue is perfect for couples who want a space filled with natural light, incredible views, and a warm, inviting ambiance.

Why Couples Love It:

• Round venue design provides a distinctive setting
• Perfect for smaller weddings or intimate receptions
• Breathtaking mountain and red rock views

Exclusive Member Benefits for Weddings & Special Events

Garden of the Gods Resort and Club offers more than just beautiful wedding venues in Colorado Springs — it also provides exclusive perks for members. As a part of the Colorado Springs country club membership cost, members receive priority access to event spaces, discounted venue pricing, and personalized planning assistance. 

Whether you’re looking for the perfect country club in Colorado Springs to host your wedding, rehearsal dinner, or bridal shower, membership offers unparalleled benefits.

If you’re searching for world-class wedding venues, exclusive benefits, and exceptional service, Garden of the Gods Resort and Club is the premier choice for your special day.

Plan Your Dream Wedding at Garden of the Gods Resort and Club

Your perfect wedding starts with the perfect venue. At Garden of the Gods Resort and Club, we provide breathtaking event spaces, luxury accommodations, and unparalleled service to create a wedding experience you and your guests will cherish forever.

Ready to start planning? Contact us today to book a tour and discover why we are the top choice for wedding venues in Colorado Springs.

The post 5 Unique Wedding Venues at Garden of the Gods Resort and Club appeared first on Garden of the Gods Resort & Club.