Destination Wedding Etiquette

You can picture the perfect destination wedding--from the resort to the reception. But what special etiquette tips should you take into consideration as you plan your destination wedding and inform your guests?

For answers, we've gone to an expert: Anne Marie Mourhess, the Director of Catering Sales for California's Renaissance Esmeralda Resort and Spa. Anne Marie gives us her special tips on etiquette for a destination wedding. [For Anne Marie's advice on planning a wedding at Renaissance Esmeralda Resort and Spa, located near Palm Springs, click here for a related story and photos.]

Do guests usually pay for their own travel and hotel expenses at a destination wedding?

Traditionally wedding guests are responsible for paying for their accommodations and transportation themselves. The key is to give your guest’s plenty of notice and time for them to plan their vacation around your wedding.

How can couples let invited guests know in a tactful way that they'll be responsible for their own expenses?

It is not necessary to state anywhere that the guests will be responsible for their own expenses.

Send out save-the-date cards or even a letter to your potential guests and add some brief information about the destination, include airline and hotel information. This should be done well in advance to give guests the opportunity to plan the trip. In many destination areas, accommodations fill up early.

What suggestions would you have for brides who want to keep their guests informed about airline reservations, hotel reservations, possible tours, etc? Do you work with many brides who have wedding newsletters or websites?

Wedding web sites are increasingly popular and newsletters are also a great way to get information to your guests.

It is also a courtesy for the bride and groom to take responsibility for finding or recommending lodging for their guests.

Contact hotels near your destination wedding location to reserve enough rooms. Many hotels and airlines offer special group rates so make sure you inquire. You can also include area information like weather and local site seeing activities.

For couples who arrange a destination wedding for just the bride and groom, what's the best way to inform family and friends of the wedding?

If it is just the bride and groom, going to the destination, most couples would opt to let close family and friends know their plans prior to leaving. If family members are upset, there are ways to include them. One option is to have a reception or party for and include friends and family after.

Click here for an interview with Anne Marie about weddings at the Renaissance Esmeralda Resort and Spa.

To plan a Marriott wedding, call the Marriott of your choice and ask to consult with the hotel's wedding event planner. For more information on Marriott Hotels, Resorts, and Suites, call 1-800-228-9290 or see www.marriott.com.

Photos courtesy Renaissance Esmeralda Resort and Spa