When Should You Start Planning a Destination Wedding?

Planning a destination wedding is a dream. But it’s also a big journey — one that blends love, logistics, beauty and a whole lot of questions. And the first question couples often ask us is:

-“When should we start?”

Our answer is always this: Start when it still feels like a dream — not a deadline.

That’s when the best design happens. That’s when the experience has room to breathe.

So, yes.... when is the right time?

In our experience, the sweet spot is 12 to 18 months before your desired date.

It might sound early, but planning a destination wedding is about building something

layered — a weekend, a journey, a memory — and that takes time, care, and space for

things to unfold.

But don’t worry if you’re behind that window — we’ve created weddings in far less time.

What matters is the mindset: having a guide, being clear on your values, and giving yourself

permission to do this with grace.

Why starting early makes a difference

1. The destination you choose becomes your canvas.

Popular venues, especially in resort towns or iconic places like Casa de Campo, book up

12–16 months in advance — sometimes longer.

When you start early, you choose your canvas, not just what’s left.

2. The earlier you begin, the better your guest experience.

Destination weddings aren’t just for you — they’re for your people.

Guests need time to plan, save, book travel, and organize life around the event.

When they feel included early, they arrive excited — not stressed.

3. Your design deserves room to grow.

At Torcello, we don’t rush beauty.

We believe that thoughtful design — the kind that reflects your love, your story, and your

style — takes time to emerge.

Rushing leads to decisions. Time leads to meaningful ones.

What if you’re not 12 months out yet?

Breathe.

You’re not late — you’re right on time for your path.

What you need is clarity, momentum, and a planner who knows how to design quickly

without sacrificing intention.

A gentle guide: Our suggested timeline

12–18 months before:

• Choose your destination

• Hire your planner

• Reserve your venue

• Begin budget & guest list conversations

10–12 months before:

• Begin your design process

• Secure main vendors (photography, video, music, catering)

• Confirm accommodation block for guests • Send Save the Dates

6–9 months before:

• Finalize moodboards, color palettes & floral direction

• Begin curating welcome bag concepts and printed materials

3–6 months before:

• Confirm design installations and timeline details

• Order custom stationery & favors

• Begin travel coordination with guests

1–2 months before:

• Deliver final RSVPs

• Prepare seating chart & timeline

• Review all styling and logistics

now Let go… and begin dreaming for real

Toolkit Invitation

Need help getting started?

We’ve curated a Destination Wedding Planning Toolkit just for you.

It includes:

- A visual timeline

- A journaling worksheet to define your vision and values

- A prompts sheet to organize your thoughts

You don’t have to figure it all out alone.

Let’s begin together — with rhythm, beauty, and intention.

xoxo,

Gabi

Photo 1: Asia Pimentel Photography