Why destination weddings are becoming more popular
And why more couples are saying ‘I do’ a little further from home
Once considered a niche luxury, destination weddings have well and truly entered the mainstream — and for good reason. At M.Ingle Events, we’ve seen a growing number of couples choosing to swap the traditional local wedding for a celebration in a stunning location that feels like one big holiday with their favourite people.
So, what’s behind the destination wedding boom? Let’s break it down.
1. It’s a Wedding and a Holiday
Let’s be honest — life is busy. Work, commitments, and daily stress don’t just disappear when you're wedding planning. A destination wedding gives couples and their guests a genuine escape. Think: sunshine, ocean views, long lunches, and celebrating over several days instead of just one.
It’s a chance to create memories beyond the ceremony itself — sunset drinks, welcome dinners, beach brunches, and poolside catch-ups with your inner circle.
2. Smaller Guest Lists = Bigger Moments
Destination weddings naturally encourage a more intimate guest list, which many couples are loving. Fewer guests means more time with each person — and more time to soak in what really matters. It’s less about formalities and more about connection.
Smaller numbers also allow for more flexibility in styling, location, and budget allocation. You can splurge on experiences (hello, private boat tours and wine tastings) instead of three extra tables of plus-ones.
3. Incredible Backdrops Without Extra Décor
When you’re getting married in a vineyard in the Yarra Valley (not too destination for my Melbourne locals), under a Tuscan sunset, or by the sea in Noosa, you don’t need to do much to impress. Nature (or heritage architecture) does a lot of the heavy lifting. This can mean less stress when it comes to styling and set-up, and more wow-factor for your photos.
4. More Personal, Less Traditional
Destination weddings often allow couples to break away from the mould. There’s less pressure to follow rigid traditions, and more opportunity to create a day that feels truly you. Want to walk down the aisle barefoot on the sand? Fancy a cheese tower instead of a wedding cake? Go for it.
And best of all? You’ll likely be spending more than just one day with your guests, so there's more time for heartfelt chats, laughter, and shared experiences.
5. Built-in Honeymoon Vibes
Start your honeymoon the moment the wedding ends — no travel, no rush, just a seamless transition into relaxation mode. Many couples now extend their stay and invite friends or family to join for a few extra days of adventure or downtime.
Planning a Destination Wedding? You Don’t Have to Do It Alone.
As magical as it sounds, destination weddings do come with their own challenges — timezone differences, local supplier sourcing, logistics, and paperwork. That’s where we come in.
At M.Ingle Events, we take the stress out of planning from afar. From liaising with local vendors to creating itineraries your guests will rave about, we’ve done it all — and we’d love to do it for you.
Let’s turn your dream location into the most unforgettable celebration of your life.
Contact us today to start planning your destination wedding.