A New Era of “I Do”
Once seen as the reserve of the rich and famous, destination weddings have become one of the most exciting trends in modern marriage. Couples are swapping traditional UK venues for sun-drenched beaches in Spain, vineyards in Italy, and boutique resorts in Mexico, combining the ceremony, honeymoon, and holiday of a lifetime into one seamless experience.
Search data and wedding-industry reports show a steady rise year-on-year — with 2026 set to be the biggest yet. For many, the question isn’t ‘Should we get married abroad?’ but rather ‘Where should we do it?’
Why the Destination Wedding Trend Is Booming
1. It’s Often More Affordable Than You Think
Despite what people imagine, many couples discover that getting married abroad can cost less than a traditional UK wedding.
– Smaller guest lists mean reduced catering and venue fees.
– Packages abroad often include photography, flowers, and even coordinators.
– Favourable exchange rates stretch budgets further.
Example: A luxury beachfront wedding for 40 guests in Portugal can cost less than half the price of a comparable UK country-house event.
2. It’s an Experience — Not Just a Day
Destination weddings turn ‘the big day’ into a multi-day celebration. Guests fly out for long weekends or week-long getaways, building shared memories through group dinners, boat trips, and beach parties. This extended experience creates deeper connection and lasting stories for everyone involved.
3. Built-In Honeymoon Bliss
No need to pack up and rush to the airport the morning after. Couples can seamlessly slip from ‘wedding mode’ to ‘honeymoon mode’ — whether that’s a private villa in Bali or a boutique retreat in Tuscany.
4. Stress-Free Planning with Expert Help
Venues abroad often include dedicated wedding planners who handle every detail: legal paperwork, florists, décor, catering, and even travel logistics. Platforms like I Do Abroad make it even easier by curating pre-vetted venues worldwide — helping you filter by budget, style, and season.
Trending Destinations for 2026
• Spain – Mediterranean sunshine, villa venues, and relaxed legal process
• Italy – Romance among vineyards, lakes, and historic towns
• Mexico – All-inclusive luxury with turquoise waters and expert hospitality
• Bali – Exotic landscapes and spiritual backdrops
• Scotland – Fairytale castles and misty highlands for local-meets-destination appeal
Each offers unique charm, climate, and cost levels — and all can be explored on I Do Abroad, complete with flight times, visa guidance, and legal info.
Sustainability and the Conscious Couple
Today’s couples are also thinking ethically. Many choose eco-certified venues, plastic-free catering, and locally sourced décor to minimise their carbon footprint. Some even plant a tree for each guest to offset travel emissions — a meaningful gesture that makes the event as responsible as it is romantic.
Real Couple Insight
“We chose to marry in Santorini through I Do Abroad and had just 35 guests. The planner handled every detail, the views were breathtaking, and it cost less than half of our UK quotes.” — Amelia & James, UK couple married abroad in 2025
Planning Tips for Your Own Destination Wedding
1. Start early – Some venues book up 12–18 months in advance.
2. Check legal requirements – These vary by country.
3. Budget realistically – Include travel and guest costs.
4. Consider the climate – Avoid rainy or humid months.
5. Hire local suppliers – Saves costs and supports the economy.
Why Choose I Do Abroad
Whether you’re dreaming of a castle in Scotland or a barefoot ceremony in the Caribbean, I Do Abroad is designed to help you plan with confidence. Our curated listings showcase verified venues, weather guidance, flight info, and full legal details — everything you need to make your dream wedding stress-free and unforgettable.
Explore destinations, compare venues, and start planning your perfect day at www.idoabroad.com.