Top Tips for Planning Your Destination Vow Renewal

Planning a destination vow renewal is an exciting way to celebrate your love in a stunning location. But pulling it off successfully takes more than just booking a flight and picking a beach. It requires careful planning, attention to detail, and a clear vision of what you want your special day to look like. Whether you’re dreaming of a tropical getaway, a charming European escape, or a romantic seaside ceremony, these tips will help ensure that your destination vow renewal goes off without a hitch.

From getting the perfect location to coordinating travel for your guests, here are the essential tips you need to plan a destination vow renewal that’s both seamless and unforgettable.

1. Start Planning Early

The earlier you start planning your destination vow renewal, the smoother the process will be. Destination events require coordination not only for you and your partner but also for your guests. Here’s what you should prioritize:

Why Early Planning Is Key:

• Save-the-Dates: Send out save-the-dates as soon as your location and date are set. Destination renewals often require more time for guests to plan and budget, so giving them at least 8–12 months’ notice is ideal.
• Group Rates: Look into group rates for flights and accommodations as early as possible. Many airlines and hotels offer discounts for booking as a group, which can save everyone money and simplify logistics.
• Best Venue Availability: Booking early increases your chances of securing the venue and vendors you want, especially during peak wedding seasons or at popular locations.

Hot Tip: Consider creating a wedding website where guests can find all the details they need, from accommodation options to travel tips.

2. Make the Most of the Resort’s Planner

If you’re holding your vow renewal at a resort, take full advantage of the wedding or vow renewal coordinator offered by the venue. These experts can make the planning process much easier.

How to Work with Your Resort Planner:

• Be Friendly and Courteous: Build a good relationship with your planner. Treating them like a friend will make them more invested in making your day perfect.
• Ask Plenty of Questions: No question is too small! From ceremony setup to vendor recommendations, your planner is there to guide you through the details.
• Be Specific in Your Requests: Let them know exactly what you want. Provide them with a clear vision so they can tailor their services to fit your needs, whether it’s a specific style of decor or a customized ceremony script.

Hot Tip: Schedule regular check-ins with your planner to stay updated on the progress and ensure all your requests are being met.

3. Have a Backup Plan for Weather

When planning a destination vow renewal, especially in tropical or coastal locations, weather can be unpredictable. Be sure to ask the venue about alternative indoor spaces for both the ceremony and reception in case of rain or high winds.

What to Ask:

• Indoor Venue Options: Confirm that the resort has a suitable indoor space available, should the weather not cooperate. Make sure it’s a space you’re happy with and fits the vibe of your celebration.
• Tent Rentals: If your ceremony is outdoors, inquire about tent rentals as a backup option to keep the ceremony outdoors while protecting your guests from the elements.

Pro Tip: Always plan for the worst weather scenario. It’s better to be over-prepared and not need it than to scramble at the last minute for alternatives.

4. Know What’s Included in Resort Packages

Resort vow renewal packages can vary significantly in what they offer. While some packages may seem like a great deal at first glance, it’s essential to get all the details upfront to avoid unexpected charges.

What to Look for in a Package:

• What’s Included: Make sure you know exactly what’s included in the package—ceremony setup, floral arrangements, photography, and catering. Get a detailed breakdown of costs for each item.
• Extras and Upgrades: If the basic package doesn’t meet your needs, ask about upgrades and extras. This could include premium decorations, a private reception, or a more elaborate photography package.
• Hidden Fees: Be aware of any additional service fees, resort charges, or gratuities that could be added to your final bill. Some resorts charge extra for things like setup, teardown, or use of certain venues.

Hot Tip: Read all contracts carefully before signing and don’t hesitate to ask for clarification on anything that seems unclear.

5. Personalize Your Ceremony

Unlike weddings, vow renewals aren’t bound by legal requirements, meaning you have complete freedom to personalize your ceremony. This is a wonderful opportunity to make your celebration truly unique and meaningful.

Ideas for Personalization:

• Write Your Own Vows: Share personal vows that reflect your journey as a couple. Whether they’re heartfelt, humorous, or nostalgic, personalized vows will make the ceremony feel more intimate.
• Include Special Readings or Rituals: Consider incorporating a unity ritual, such as a sand ceremony, or readings that hold special meaning for both of you. These symbolic gestures add a beautiful layer of depth to the ceremony.
• Customized Ceremony Script: Ask the resort coordinator for the standard ceremony script, but don’t hesitate to make changes. You can tailor the wording to better reflect your relationship and the tone you want to set.

Pro Tip: Arrange a pre-ceremony meeting with the officiant to discuss any personal elements or modifications you’ve made to the script.

6. Plan for Photos in Advance

Capturing the magic of your vow renewal is essential, so you’ll want to make sure you have a photographer who understands your vision. Resorts often offer their own photographers, but it’s important to see their work before committing.

Photography Tips:

• Review the Portfolio: If you’re using a resort photographer, ask to see their portfolio in advance. Ensure their style matches what you’re looking for—whether it’s candid, artistic, or traditional.
• Consider an Amateur Photographer: If you’re on a budget, you might ask a talented guest or family member to take some photos in addition to the professional shots. Having both options ensures you capture every moment.
• Check Package Prices: Get clear pricing on photography packages upfront. Some packages may seem affordable but could charge extra for high-quality prints, albums, or additional hours of coverage.

Hot Tip: If the resort photographer’s style doesn’t fit your vision, consider hiring a local photographer with more experience in destination vow renewals.

7. Choose Appropriate Attire for the Setting

Your vow renewal attire should reflect both the location and the weather. Beach ceremonies call for different attire than formal ballroom events, so consider the climate when selecting what to wear.

Attire Suggestions:

• For Her: A lightweight, flowy dress or sundress works well for beach ceremonies. Consider simple flats or sandals instead of high heels, which can be tricky on the sand.
• For Him: Light-colored suits or casual slacks paired with a dress shirt look great in tropical settings. If you’re having a beach ceremony, sandals or even going barefoot are appropriate and comfortable.

Pro Tip: Always check the weather forecast ahead of time, and be prepared with backups like a shawl, jacket, or umbrella.

8. Take Care of Favors and Gifts Early

Favors are a thoughtful way to thank your guests for traveling to your vow renewal, but shipping them to a destination can be tricky. Plan ahead to avoid stress.

Favor Ideas:

• Non-Edible and Lightweight: Opt for non-edible, lightweight favors like pashminas, tote bags, or sunglasses. These are easy to pack and useful for guests.
• Send Favors in Advance: Ship your favors directly to the resort ahead of time. This avoids the hassle of carrying them with you and ensures they arrive safely.

Hot Tip: Let guests know that gifts are not expected for a vow renewal. You might include this note in your invitation or on your wedding website.

9. Relax and Enjoy Your Day

One of the most important tips for a destination vow renewal? Relax! Once the big day arrives, it’s time to let go of the details and enjoy the celebration.

How to Relax:

• Delegate: Assign someone from your party to handle last-minute logistics and guest coordination. Whether it’s making sure guests are on time or dealing with any small issues, this isn’t your job on the big day.
• Schedule Couple Time: Set aside some private time for just the two of you, both on the day of the ceremony and afterward. Remember, the vow renewal is about celebrating your relationship, so take time to reconnect and enjoy the moment.

Final Thoughts: Your Destination Vow Renewal Awaits

Planning a destination vow renewal can be a dream come true, but it requires thoughtful preparation and attention to detail. By starting early, working closely with your resort’s planner, and personalizing every element, you’ll ensure your day is as special as your love story. Whether it’s on a beach, in a tropical garden, or overlooking the ocean, your destination vow renewal will be a beautiful celebration to remember.

Ready to start planning? Follow these tips to make your destination vow renewal stress-free, unique, and unforgettable. Your dream day awaits!