Written by Madalene Benoist d’Etiveaud, owner of BASH Weddings & Events
Destination weddings and events! My favorite type of event to plan. Who wouldn’t love the challenge of hunting down the perfect venue with the perfect view which also boasts the most amazing menu! Tough as this may seem, the opportunity to explore new cities and towns while meeting the locals to source out everything from florists and tent vendors to trolly and boat launch services to bring guests to the most splendid locations is exhilarating. This summer I get to plan two destination events, one in Newport Rhode Island and the other in Martha’s Vineyard. Luckily these towns are familiar with catering to the most discerning of clients making sourcing product and vendors much easier. However, for certain cities or countries with a large cultural difference to the U.S. gold coast planning a wedding or celebration can be quite challenging. Especially if there is a language barrier. Always stay positive and welcome difference. You would be surprised at how helpful local community members can be especially when you appreciate their traditions, foods and natural landscapes. Don’t plan a destination event expecting it to be the same as the comforts of home. The point of planning a destination event is that it’s different, exciting and for some a place they have traveled to again and again.
Here are a few tips to consider when planning a destination wedding or event:
1. Hotel concierges and country club event directors are a wealth of information about the local community.
2. Don’t forget to arrive at your destination at least one full day, although two is better, to allow yourself time for trouble shooting and to familiarize yourself with the area if you
have not been for a site visit in advance.
3. Most importantly for those of you considering getting married in another state don’t forget to
file for your wedding license in the state in which you are getting married in order for your
license to be valid. See the link below for the state of Massachusetts requirements for those
of you who are interested in getting married in Martha’s Vineyard, Nantucket, Cape Cod and
Boston. BEWARE, some states require a 3-day waiting period. All the better to lap up the sun
and have fun before the big day!
Madalene Benoist d’Etiveaud, owner of BASH Weddings & Events
